Over the past six decades Mesa Community College has evolved into a nationally recognized institution with two campuses committed to academic excellence and workforce readiness. Today, MCC is a hub of innovation — nationally recognized for excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement and innovative education.
Built for today’s job market
At the forefront of education, MCC offers employer-aligned programs. Advisory groups of business leaders and subject matter experts help refine curricula, ensuring students gain in-demand skills. The result: workforce-ready graduates equipped with current knowledge. MCC’s eight- and 16-week formats give students the flexibility to fast-track training to quickly enter or advance in the workforce.
MCC 60th Anniversary Video
A strategic economic partner
MCC’s growth aligns with workforce needs, partnering with municipalities to upskill employees and support individuals seeking career advancement. Example programs include 12 business certificates for Mesa Business Builder Small Business Assistance initiative and a partnership with Chandler-Gilbert Community College to offer training in business, health care, IT and trades to Gilbert residents and business owners.
MCC works hand-in-hand with industry leaders to equip students with the skills needed for today’s most in-demand careers.
Information technology
Launched in 2024 in partnership with Jamf, the accelerated hybrid Jamf Training Foundation course gives students hands-on experience using Jamf to manage Apple devices in enterprise environments. MCC is Arizona’s only college offering in-person, instructor-led certification.
“Currently, the Apple Developer Enterprise Program job market has more openings than certified applicants,” said Alvin Bridges, IT director for the Maricopa Community Colleges. “In a few semesters, we can transform a first-generation student into a functional Jamf administrator, changing the trajectory of their life with industry-standard tools.”
Suraj Mohandas, Ph.D., vice president of strategy at Jamf, noted that Arizona’s growing tech ecosystem motivated the partnership with MCC. “Even though this course is specific to Jamf and the Apple ecosystem … these skills apply to IT admin roles more broadly.”
Construction trades
By 2031, Arizona is projected to add 37,000 new construction jobs. In anticipation, MCC launched its Construction Trades program in fall 2022. MCC is one of four Maricopa Community Colleges offering comprehensive construction trades programs providing students with a blend of theoretical, technical and hands-on instruction needed to succeed in a variety of high-wage, high-demand roles.
“We experienced tremendous success with our Construction Management degree and expanded our support for the industry by adding a Construction Trades program,” said David Cain, Ph.D., MCC Construction Trades program director. “Our Construction Advisory committee stressed the dire need for qualified talent to enter the workforce quickly at the ground level.”
Currently MCC offers training in carpentry, electrical, HVACr and plumbing. The program uses the accreditation process conducted by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), a nonprofit education foundation created to standardize curricula for skilled craft professionals.
Beauty and wellness
MCC earned success launching an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Beauty and Wellness in 2020, in partnership with Rolfs Salon of the Future, to create college educated professionals to advance workforce training in the beauty industry. The first program of its kind, it helps licensed cosmetologists, hairstylists and aestheticians enhance their business and technical skills with training in finance, marketing, communication and leadership. Licensed industry professionals may earn up to 30 credits for prior learning, which translates to nearly half the credits needed for the degree. Graduates can transfer to Arizona State University to earn a Bachelor of Applied Science (Applied Leadership) or Northern Arizona University to earn a Bachelor degree in Strategic Leadership.
Why partner with MCC?
As industries evolve, MCC evolves with them. Through strong industry ties, MCC co-develops programs, creates apprenticeships and helps businesses upskill employees. Focused on high-growth sectors like health care, advanced manufacturing, IT, beauty and skilled trades, MCC ensures a steady talent pipeline. Through industry-aligned education, students graduate ready to contribute from day one.
Looking ahead
MCC remains committed to education that empowers students, strengthens the economy and supports business success. With 60 years of experience, MCC is a trusted resource for workforce solutions.
Ready to invest in your workforce? Reach out to explore partnership opportunities: cteopportunities@mesacc.edu.
My Thoughts
Collaborating with Mesa Community College’s Institutional Advancement team to develop this advertorial for the Phoenix Business Journal was a standout moment for me. I had the opportunity to shape a narrative that highlights MCC’s 60-year legacy of workforce impact and innovation—while drawing attention to the Jamf Training Foundation program and other career-aligned offerings.
Working on this project reaffirmed why I love public relations and communications: bringing institutional stories to life in trusted media outlets, elevating student and faculty achievements, and strengthening community connections. Seeing our messaging published in a respected business publication demonstrated the power of strategic storytelling to inform, inspire, and engage a broad audience.
Want me on your team?