This morning, Arizona Western College (AWC) and Onvida Health hosted a meaningful groundbreaking event, unveiling plans for their Health Careers Center. As communities nationwide face healthcare professional shortages, Onvida Health and AWC are expanding healthcare and educational opportunities to keep local talent in Yuma County. Together, the organizations are leading the way with innovative solutions to ensure our community has well-trained professionals for generations to come.
The new Health Careers Center marks the next step in the long-standing partnership between AWC and Onvida Health. Onvida Health’s purpose is building a healthier tomorrow and AWC’s mission is built upon transforming lives through education and partnerships. This latest initiative reflects their shared vision for addressing our community’s growing healthcare needs by developing a strong pipeline of skilled professionals locally.
“This groundbreaking is more than just a partnership with AWC. It symbolizes our shared commitment to developing homegrown talent and investing in the future of healthcare for our community.” said Dr. Trenschel, President and CEO of Onvida Health. “This is a win-win for our community. Keeping people here for their education, we increase the chances they will stay and continue their career in the place they call home.”
During a beautiful fall ceremony, AWC and Onvida Health came together with community leaders to unveil the specifics of the new building, and more importantly, to celebrate the future of healthcare education. AWC students and Onvida Health employees – who trained and studied at AWC – joined in the celebration, sharing their journeys. A visual sign showcased a rendering of what the new building will look like. Additionally, graduation stoles used to mark the occasion were set aside to be presented to the first graduating class.
This new facility will offer programs in a wide range of health fields including, research, data and analytics, informatics, healthcare administration, technology, patient care, facilities, and will serve students pursuing dual credit, short-term certificates and associate degrees, and university students seeking bachelor’s and beyond. A cutting-edge simulation lab will provide students an opportunity to learn and practice essential medical skills, such as checking vital signs, inserting catheters and IVs, conducting patient evaluations, and more.
“The mission of AWC speaks to transforming lives right here our communities”, said Dr. Daniel Corr, President of Arizona Western College. “By training these students locally for positions in fields that are already in high demand, we not only strengthen the local workforce, but encourage them to build their futures here and keep their talents close to home.”
“Today’s groundbreaking event is a testament to the power of partnerships in transforming lives through education”, said Reetika Dhawan, CEO of the Entrepreneurial College and Vice President of Workforce and Healthcare Programs at AWC. “By working together, Onvida Health and Arizona Western College are not only addressing the region’s healthcare workforce needs but are also creating pathways for students to build lasting, impactful careers right here in their community. This facility will be a cornerstone for developing skilled, compassionate professionals who are rooted in Yuma and ready to serve.”
Construction of the $56 million, 60,000-square-foot, two-story facility is set for completion in late 2025. This facility will not only enhance educational opportunities but will also provide a long-term solution retaining local healthcare talent to provide for our neighbors, relatives and visitors for years to come.
