Arizona’s construction industry is experiencing rapid growth, bolstered by Governor Katie Hobbs' BuildItAZ Apprenticeship Initiative. Since its launch in 2023, the program has nearly doubled the number of active construction and trades registered apprentices in the state, increasing from 4,350 to 7,252. The initiative is on track to reach its target of 8,700 apprentices by the end of 2025.
In response to rising demand for skilled workers, Governor Hobbs announced a third round of funding, adding $3 million to the program. This investment is part of a broader effort to address a projected shortage of 20,000 construction jobs in Arizona by 2030, as identified by the Talent Ready AZ project.
"Creating opportunity for working class Arizonans is critical to realizing the Arizona Promise," Hobbs stated in an official release. Recent achievements of the initiative include the allocation of $1 million in grants to seven construction and trades apprenticeship programs statewide. Combined with a prior $650,000 allocation, these funds aim to support apprentice recruitment and retention, while also addressing employment barriers such as childcare and transportation costs. Supported programs provide resources, including tuition coverage and essential equipment such as tools and protective gear.
Program leaders have expressed strong support for the initiative’s impact. Karen King, Training Director at Tucson Electrical Apprenticeship, emphasized the program’s role in creating pathways into skilled trades. Nicole Calamaio of Sundt Construction noted that the funding supports efforts to diversify the workforce by expanding opportunities for women and Spanish-speaking residents in Maricopa County. In the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, President Martin Harvier praised the initiative for enhancing workforce development and supporting critical infrastructure projects.
Further promoting workforce development, the Office of Economic Opportunity will launch the BuildItAZ multimedia outreach campaign this spring. The campaign will focus on inspiring young Arizonans, especially women, to consider careers in the construction industry by highlighting stability and long-term growth opportunities through digital platforms and community engagements.
Additional details and information on apprenticeship opportunities are available on the official BuildItAZ website.
