West-MEC and Agua Fria High School District gather to sign on as partners for the soon-to-open upcoming trades academy. Pictured left to right: West-MEC Governing Board Member Robert Garcia, West-MEC Superintendent Dr. Scott Spurgeon, Agua Fria High School Principal Autumn Daniels, Agua Fria High School District Governing Board Member Gina DeCoste, Superintendent Mark Yslas, and Governing Board Member Trey Terry.
Western Maricopa Education Center (West-MEC) and Agua Fria High School District are taking a pioneering step toward preparing students for rewarding careers. Together, the school districts will launch a state-of-the-art Trades Academy. The ground will break at the new facility located on the Agua Fria High School campus in Avondale in April 2024.
From welding, plumbing, and electrical work to automotive technology and diesel mechanics, students will have the opportunity to explore their passions and develop expertise under the guidance of seasoned professionals. The Trades Academy is expected to open in fall 2024.
“The Trades Academy will offer industry training and licensing for students to high-wage, in-demand jobs,” noted Agua Fria High School District Superintendent Mark Yslas. “The Trades Academy is a platform for students to harness their potential and embark on meaningful career paths.”
By collaborating with local businesses and industry partners, the Trades Academy ensures that its offerings align with the community’s workforce needs. The Trades Academy’s curriculum will combine classroom instruction with immersive, real-world experiences, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical projects.
“Industry partnerships are the key to creating a faster way forward for students. By creating this Career and Technical Academy in conjunction with Agua Fria High School District, we are creating more opportunities for students to start their journeys toward economic independence,” said West-MEC Superintendent Dr. Scott Spurgeon.
With cutting-edge facilities and industry-standard equipment, students will gain a competitive edge in their chosen fields.The Trades Academy marks a bold stride towards educational innovation, promising to shape skilled professionals and individuals equipped with the determination, adaptability, and resilience required to thrive in an ever-changing world.
For more information, please email Megan Griego at [email protected].
Agua Fria Union High School District was established in 1955. Today, the district serves the communities of Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Waddell, and part of Glendale with its six high schools: Agua Fria, Canyon View, Desert Edge, Millennium, Verrado, and Agua Fria Online. Plus the District offers two alternative programs: Coldwater Academy and New Directions. More information can be found at aguafria.org.