The hum of industry fills the air as Pima Community College’s Downtown Campus undergoes a transformation that signals more than just structural change—it’s the foundation of a thriving workforce. For more than two decades, Pima Community College’s Building & Construction Technology (BCT) program operated within the confines of a 2,500-square-foot lab. In this space, future carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians trained side by side, sharing tools and learning with limited resources. Fast forward to 2024, where a significant expansion is underway—a long-anticipated renovation that will transform this program from cramped quarters to a state-of-the-art, 25,000-square-foot facility.

The change is more than just an upgrade in square footage; it’s a blueprint for building the next generation of skilled workers. “Each of our programs is going to get as much space as what all four programs had prior to this,” said John Gerard, Department Head of Building & Construction Technologies. This major expansion will provide each trade with dedicated areas, from classrooms to hands-on labs, giving students the room they need to grow their skills. Plumbing, once crowded into a multi-trade lab, will soon have its own spacious workshop. Similarly, HVAC, electrical, and carpentry programs will each have expansive, trade-specific areas.

The timing couldn’t be more critical. The construction industry faces a national shortage of skilled workers. In Arizona alone, over a hundred thousand tradespeople are needed to fill the growing demand. With the renovated space, Pima’s students will help meet this need, equipped with the latest tools and technology that mirror real-world industry settings.

Gerard emphasizes that the larger space allows the BCT program to expand its focus beyond residential construction. “We’ve been very residentially focused for many years, because of space limitations,” he explains. With the new facility, students will now dive into commercial and industrial projects, giving them exposure to the full spectrum of construction jobs. This shift is pivotal, as commercial and industrial construction opens new opportunities for job growth and economic development in the region.

One example of the program’s forward-thinking approach is its upcoming focus on refrigeration. While HVAC focuses on comfort cooling—think home air conditioning—refrigeration handles the cold storage needs of supermarkets, convenience stores, and larger industrial applications. “That’s something we weren’t really offering before,” Gerard notes. This addition reflects industry demands, as refrigeration specialists are increasingly needed in both commercial and industrial settings.

As Pima College’s BCT program embarks on this new chapter, it represents more than just an educational initiative. It’s an investment in the future of Tucson. By providing top-notch training and resources, PCC is ensuring that its graduates are not only job-ready but also community builders in the most literal sense. Whether constructing homes, maintaining HVAC systems, or installing complex electrical networks, these students will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the region.

However, for the BCT program to fulfill its potential, significant practical challenges remain, particularly in outfitting the new space with the necessary technology and tools. Historically, the program is fitted with a budget and has accessed grants like the Perkins grant, but these funding streams often come with restrictive conditions. Delays in procurement due to price increases can slow the progress of purchasing much needed equipment. “Sometimes you have to go through so many hoops with grants,” Gerard noted, emphasizing that traditional funding routes often fall short in covering the immediate and evolving needs of the program.

This is where donations and partnerships become essential. Unlike grants, which are often tied to specific timelines and conditions, private donations offer flexibility. They allow the program to respond quickly to shifts in industry standards or technology advancements. “The building is already taken care of,” John explained, “but we’re really looking for the equipment to put in the building.”

The BCT program’s ability to provide top-tier training hinges on a combination of community support and modern equipment, to fulfill the expanded space. The renovation project not only symbolizes the program’s growth but also its commitment to staying ahead of industry trends, continually improving, and maintaining strong community ties. Together, these factors ensure that BCT students graduate with skills that make them competitive both locally and nationally, prepared to meet the evolving demands of the construction industry.

In a world that often pushes students toward four-year universities, PCC’s BCT program is a reminder that skilled trades are not only vital but also a pathway to stable, fulfilling careers.

A well-trained workforce is essential for community growth and economic stability. Skilled tradespeople are the backbone of our infrastructure—they build our homes, schools, and businesses, and they maintain the systems that keep our cities running smoothly. As Gerard puts it, “When our students thrive, our community thrives.”

Pima Community College’s Building and Construction Technology program is the heartbeat of our community. By supporting their fundraising goals for equipment purchase, you’re not just buying tools—you’re investing in a brighter future.

• Invest today by clicking here
• For more information, contact Diana Cannon, diana@pimafoundation.org or 520.206.4860