Center of Excellence in Hospitality Leadership

Center of Excellence in Hospitality Leadership is the response to the imperative role of tourism in our region’s economy.  Housed at PCC’s Desert Vista Campus, the planned, physical expansion of this COE will soon include a full-service, community-welcome restaurant/bistro, state-of-the-art simulation hotel suites and front desk operations learning labs, as well as three commercial kitchens, and a recommissioned grill.  The space will allow for community projects and events.  This expansion has been initiated using its first Title V grant “Pathways to Hospitality,” a $2.7 million award.

Baking and Pastry Arts

Culinary Fundamentals

Hotel and Restaurant Management

Hospitality Leadership-AA

…and more

PCC is committed to advancing economic development in Southern Arizona. After the mismatch between the skills of employees and the need of employers was discovered, the question was asked: What are the jobs of the future? In Arizona, middle-skilled jobs currently account for 53% of Arizona’s labor market (2018)—yet only 47% of the state’s workers are trained to the skill level needed (2018).

The development of Pima Community College Centers of Excellence was a response to the region’s need; Centers of Excellence are the next stage of advancement.

The College has defined the characteristics required of its Centers of Excellence to be:

RESPONSIVENESS: Create and deliver in-demand programs and employees; stackable credentials, degrees and certificate programs

CONVERGENCE: A community hub for open resources; apprenticeships, seminars and forums on thought leadership, etc…

ADAPTABILITY: A high-level of professional development, career guidance and real-world experience aligned with region’s demand