Rio Salado College Partners with SMCC to Offer GED Test Prep to Construction Trades Program

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Wednesday, July 28, 2021
College
photo of construction worker with text: Prep for the GED test while training for a career in the construction trades at SMCC

Rio Salado College Partners with SMCC to Offer GED Test Prep to Construction Trades Program

Rio Salado College has partnered with South Mountain Community College (SMCC) to offer GED® test prep courses at SMCC.

Held onsite at SMCC, the program provides an opportunity for students to take Rio Salado’s adult education courses in pursuit of a high school equivalency diploma while simultaneously enrolling in one of SMCC’s Construction Trades Institute (CTI) programs.

CTI programs include training in the carpentry, plumbing or electrical fields.

Students aren’t required to enroll in the CTI program, but the enhanced opportunity allows students to not only earn their high school equivalency degree, but also finish with a certificate and training in a new job-ready career.

“We developed this integrated education training partnership so students can earn academic credentials while they develop requisite industry skills — and fill the high demand for construction trade workers in Maricopa County and Arizona,” said Rio Salado President Kate Smith. “Studies through the years make it clear a GED® dramatically increases a person’s earning potential. This program aims to take that a step further, through targeted training in fields that have numerous gainful employment opportunities.” 

“Our close collaboration with South Mountain Community College will bring in-demand workforce training opportunities to Rio Salado College’s Adult Education students,” said Dr. Tamara Cochran, Dean of Rio Salado College’s Instruction and Community Development. “This type of partnership can be life-changing for students as they gain access to career training and livable wage jobs. Through enhanced collaboration, our colleges are eliminating barriers that exist for students and setting them up for success.”

The GED® test prep program features:

  • Dedicated staff to help students enroll in the program and prepare for success
  • Onsite classroom on the SMCC campus, with easy access for the public
  • In-person GED® test prep courses offered two days per week, three hours per day
  • In-person construction trades courses, one day per week
  • CTI certificates can be earned in just one semester
  • Scholarships are available for the CTI program

Program cohorts start every seven weeks. Classes take place in the North Campus Complex (NCC) Building on the SMCC campus, 7050 S. 24th St., Phoenix, AZ 85042.

Interested in learning more?

Want to get started with Rio Salado's Adult Education classes at SMCC? Call us today at (480) 384-9821 or visit our website.

Learn more about SMCC'S CTI programs, or stop by an open house on Tuesday, Aug. 3 at 10 a.m. or Thursday, Aug. 5 at 4:30 p.m. at 7050 S. 24th St., Phoenix, at the South Mountain Community College campus.