Arizona expands program to help prepare students for technology jobs

June 11, 2026 - 06:09

Governor Katie Hobbs has announced the expansion of the "Ready Tech-Go" initiative, bringing the program to additional community colleges across Arizona. The goal is to prepare workers for more than 162,000 technology jobs currently available throughout the state. The program focuses on giving students practical skills in areas like cybersecurity, software development, and data analysis, aiming to close the gap between classroom learning and real-world employer needs.

The expanded program will offer short-term certificates and hands-on training modules that can be completed in months rather than years. Community college leaders say this flexibility is key for adults who need to work while they study. The state is partnering with local tech companies to design the curriculum, ensuring students learn the specific tools and platforms that businesses are using right now.

Officials hope the initiative will also help rural communities, where access to tech training has been limited. By bringing the program to more campuses, the state aims to create a pipeline of qualified workers who can fill high-paying jobs without having to leave their hometowns. Governor Hobbs described the expansion as a direct investment in Arizona's economic future, noting that the tech sector is growing faster than the state's ability to train people for it. The first new cohorts are expected to start classes next semester.