CAC Celebrates Community College Month

Central Arizona College Celebrates Community College Month by Showcasing Workforce Pathways, Transfer Success and High‑Value Education
 
By Angela Askey, Executive Director Public Relations and Marketing
Pinal County, AZ – Katie Hobbs, Governor of Arizona, recently proclaimed April 2026 as Arizona Community College Month, recognizing the state’s ten community college districts and their vital role in education and workforce development.
This proclamation aligns with National Community College Month (#CCMonth), a nationwide initiative led by the Association of Community College Trustees to highlight the value of community and technical colleges in strengthening America’s workforce and expanding economic opportunity.
Community colleges were created to meet the needs of their local communities. According to ACCT, they represent a uniquely American model designed to provide affordable, high-quality higher education to all. They serve as a gateway to advanced degrees and are especially important for students from diverse and underserved backgrounds. By offering open access and lower costs, community colleges make higher education possible for many who might otherwise face financial or other barriers.
As one of Arizona’s ten districts, Central Arizona College (CAC) has supported the communities of Pinal County for more than 57 years. The college provides accessible opportunities for educational, economic, cultural, and personal growth for learners of all ages.
The demand for skilled professionals continues to rise across industries. Community colleges play a key role in preparing job-ready graduates in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, welding, education and more. These graduates bring valuable skills to local employers and help sustain strong communities and a thriving economy.
Community colleges are uniquely positioned to respond quickly to workforce needs. They offer up-to-date training, hands-on learning and credentials aligned with real employer demands, helping students stay competitive in a rapidly evolving job market.
Students benefit from affordable tuition, clear pathways to high-demand careers and opportunities to transfer to four-year institutions. With strong outcomes and practical training, a community college education is a smart investment. Just as importantly, community colleges support a wide range of student goals, recognizing that success looks different for everyone.
At CAC, students can follow guided pathways that map out courses toward certificates or degrees across nine areas of interest. In addition, the college offers comprehensive workforce services tailored to the needs of the regional economy. By partnering closely with employers, CAC ensures its programs equip students with the skills and certifications needed for successful careers.
Community colleges are where careers begin, grow and evolve - and at CAC, the possibilities are endless.
---
Governor Hobbs’ Proclamation
WHEREAS Arizona’s community colleges have played a vital role in shaping the future of the state and its economy through providing high-quality education and training to students of all backgrounds and ages, and
WHEREAS Arizona’s 10 community college districts provide academic and workforce opportunities to students in 61 locations and online, and are committed to providing accessible, affordable high-quality education and training to their respective communities, and
WHEREAS, Arizona’s community colleges offer a wide range of programs and services, including technical training, transfer degrees, workforce development, early college experiences and adult education, all designed to meet the needs of students and employers alike, and
WHEREAS, Arizona’s community colleges serve over 250,000 students each year, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue their academic and professional goals, and to become active and engaged members of their communities, and
WHEREAS, the community colleges are an integral part of the state’s economy, providing employers with the skilled workforce that is essential to the growth and prosperity of Arizona’s businesses and industries, and
WHEREAS, with recognition of the dedication and hard work of the faculty, staff and leadership of Arizona’s community in providing education and training to students and acknowledgment of the vital role they play in helping build a stronger and more prosperous Arizona.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Katie Hobbs, Governor of the State of Arizona, do hereby, proclaim April 2026 as ARIZONA COMMUNITY COLLEGE MONTH