AWC receives $250,000 grant to benefit CTE programs

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Arizona Western College (AWC) announced they were a recipient of a $250,000 Perkins Innovation and Modernization grant.

According to a press release, the grant is said to help expand "work-based experimental learning" across their Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.

"Many of our students are the first in their families to pursue higher education and come from rural communities with limited access to career opportunities," said Cinthia Reyes, Director of CTE Programs. "This grant ensures they can gain hands-on experience, earn industry-recognized credentials, and connect directly with employers."

AWC says the grant will help them "meet the urgent need for a skilled, job-ready workforce in rural Southwest Arizona by bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry application."

"This grant is a catalyst for transformation," said Dr. Reetika Dhawan, Arizona Western Entrepreneurial College Chief Executive Officer and Vice President of Workforce & Healthcare Programs. "By strengthening the connection between education and industry, we're empowering students with real-world skills that lead to meaningful careers. It also reinforces Arizona Western College's commitment to innovation and workforce development across our rural communities."

To learn more about this, read the press release below.