Investing in Pima Community College aids workforce, future

But here’s the truth: None of this happens by accident. It happens because we invest in people. This year, my Democratic colleagues in the Arizona House and I fought for — and won — historic investments to make higher education and career training more affordable and accessible for everyone.

For too long, Republicans in the Legislature have treated higher education as an afterthought. Community colleges in Pima and Maricopa Counties went a decade without a single dollar in state operating funds. And this year, they even tried to roll back in-state tuition for Dreamers, a policy overwhelmingly approved by Arizona voters. Democrats stood firm and instead delivered real investments in our students and our future.

For the first time in state history, we funded the Community College Promise Program, investing $3 million to provide full-tuition scholarships for working-class students. That’s life-changing for families here in Tucson and across Arizona.

We also secured $6 million for Adult Education Programs, which help adults earn their GEDs, learn English, and gain the skills to succeed in high-demand, good-paying jobs. These programs open doors for people who want to re-enter the workforce or take the next step in their education.

And through new funding for dual enrollment programs, Pima can continue offering high school students the opportunity to take college classes and earn credits toward their degrees or certificates at no cost to families. This support helps students fast-track their education and careers in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology.

Pima’s Allied Health Professions Program is one of the best in Arizona and a shining example of how these investments pay off. Its graduates are filling critical roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities right here in Southern Arizona. That’s why I was proud to help secure $1.5 million to expand nursing education statewide, because investing in our healthcare workforce means investing in healthier communities.

When we talk about economic development, this is what it looks like: creating clear pathways from classrooms to careers. Every dollar we invest in Pima Community College, and in community colleges across the state, comes back many times over through a stronger workforce, a more resilient economy, and greater opportunity for our kids and grandkids.

Democrats believe that talent exists in every community, but opportunity does not. That’s why we’re working to build an economy from the bottom up and the middle out — one where every Arizonan, no matter their background or ZIP code, can pursue their dreams and build a better life.

Pima Community College embodies that vision every day. I left my visit inspired, and more committed than ever to ensuring the state continues to do its part.

Because when we invest in our students, we invest in Arizona’s future.