On Monday, June 2, SMCC hosted a signing event to formalize a new partnership with Sundt Construction. This collaboration centers on providing Sundt's apprenticeship employees with access to SMCC’s for-credit electrical program, aimed at upskilling and training their workforce. Launching this summer, the partnership is designed to be long-term and impactful.
“The partnership between Sundt and South Mountain Community College is a true win-win. Together we’re addressing the critical skills gap in the trades by training, certifying, and preparing individuals for successful careers,” said Travis May, SMCC Interim Dean of Academic Innovation and Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Sundt is a national full-service building contractor that has been in business for over 130 years. The company’s corporate headquarters is located in Tempe, Arizona and has a widespread portfolio of projects that cover markets including transportation and infrastructure, building, water, advanced facilities, heavy industrial, mining, renewables and energy.
“Sundt has been an outstanding partner; their mission, values, and organizational culture is what really stands out and I know that will benefit our students and the broader community in which we serve,” said May.
Students in the Sundt apprenticeship program will study the NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) curriculum at SMCC and upon completion of the program, they will receive a certificate degree from the college.
In addition, Sundt will actively recruit from SMCC’s ACE program and the traditional college students enrolled in SMCC’s 16-week, 16-credit electrical program. This initiative represents the first partnership of its kind within the Maricopa Community College District.
“What makes this collaboration especially impactful is that it not only provides Sundt employees with opportunities to upskill and earn college credit but it also creates a possible pipeline for our students to enter Sundt’s apprenticeship program. This partnership has been more than a year and a half in the making, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see it come to fruition,” said May.