Today, the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) and Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC), joined Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), and partners from Boeing and Honeywell for the launch of the first-of-its-kind Aerospace & Defense Future48 Workforce Accelerator. The aerospace and defense-focused facility will open fall of 2026 at CGCC’s Williams campus, bringing together students and industry partners to shape the future of Arizona’s aerospace manufacturing workforce.
“We are incredibly honored to be selected for a second Future48 Workforce Accelerator,” said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, MCCCD Chancellor. “Through this opportunity, our system will provide critical education and training required by today’s aerospace and defense manufacturing workforce. We look forward to empowering individuals and driving innovation in this high-demand industry.”
What’s New
MCCCD will receive $6 million from the ACA to support the state-of-the-art training facility. Students will have access to flexible training spaces, labs, and industry-standard equipment, creating a seamless transition between lectures and skill-based learning. The accelerator will expand CGCC’s aviation programs, building on existing offerings such as Aircraft Maintenance Technology—providing affordable degrees and certificates pathways in airframe, powerplant, and comprehensive maintenance—and Airway Science Technology. Flexible, accelerated training opportunities will support rapid upskilling and workforce entry in emerging aviation fields.
“Realizing the Arizona Promise means connecting Arizonans to family-sustaining jobs of the future,” said Governor Hobbs. “This new program, which is part of my administration's ongoing commitment to growing our workforce, will create pathways for our community college students to launch careers in aerospace and defense manufacturing. Through partnerships like this one, Arizona will remain at the forefront of a critical industry that helps keep us safe and secure.”
The expansion is expected to support nearly 1,000 students annually, connecting learners with industry-relevant experiences and hands-on training, preparing them for in-demand, high-wage careers in aerospace and defense manufacturing. The investment reinforces Arizona’s commitment to the aerospace, defense, and manufacturing sectors.
“We are excited to launch the aerospace and defense-focused Future48 Workforce Accelerator in support of our robust aerospace and defense industry,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “The Accelerator demonstrates Arizona’s continued commitment to provide hands-on, skilled training for high-tech and growing industries. We’re grateful to all of our partners including Governor Hobbs, Maricopa County Community College District, Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Boeing, Honeywell, and more for their support.”
Why It Matters
Arizona is a central hub for the aerospace, defense, and manufacturing industry, with over 1,200 companies like The Boeing Company, Honeywell Aerospace, General Dynamics, Virgin Galactic, and more that contribute nearly $15 billion to the economy annually. This sector is crucial to Arizona’s economy, with a strong demand for skilled professionals in aviation mechanics, electrical and mechanical assembly, wiring, and composites. The state ranks among the top five for the largest employment, providing job opportunities for more than 62,000 Arizonans.
MCCCD, Arizona’s leading provider of workforce training, remains committed to preparing students for these critical roles. By aligning educational programs with industry needs, MCCCD ensures students graduate with the skills necessary to secure rewarding careers in aerospace manufacturing–a path to a rewarding profession and a living wage.
“Chandler-Gilbert Community College has over 30 years of experience offering training and working with leading Aviation Industry partners to meet workforce needs and offer high-quality programs to students in the aviation space,” said Dr. CJ Wurster, CGCC Interim President. “We are so honored to continue leading the way and expanding our impact through this partnership and the future work of the Aerospace & Defense Accelerator.”
About the Future48 Workforce Accelerators
The Future48 Workforce Accelerators are supported by a $30 million investment from the ACA to build six new advanced manufacturing facilities across Arizona in partnership with local community colleges. The latest addition accelerator is the second slated for MCCCD, following the semiconductor-focused facility announced at GateWay Community College last fall.
What Leaders Are Saying
“As an aerospace and defense leader in Arizona for generations, Honeywell Aerospace couldn’t be more proud to help shape Arizona’s future through the Future48 Workforce Accelerator,” said Jim Currier, President and CEO of Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. “Today’s students are the future of the aviation industry workforce, and we’re honored to help train those students and prepare them for rewarding careers.”
“Boeing has proudly been a cornerstone employer in Arizona for over four decades, harnessing a highly skilled workforce that is at the forefront of innovation,” said Christina Upah, Vice President, Attack Helicopter Program and Sr. Mesa Site Executive, Boeing. “We applaud Arizona for recognizing the vital importance of building strong community partnerships to meet the growing demand for talent in the state's manufacturing and engineering sectors, particularly in the aerospace industry.”
Learn more at maricopa.edu/industry.