Academics
Founded in 1962, Maricopa Skill Center—Phoenix is one of two skill centers which are part of the Maricopa County Community College District. In addition to two centers, the district operates ten colleges and several education centers. The skill centers offer vocational training programs to prepare students for entry into the workforce.
Maricopa Skill Center—Phoenix offers a variety of certificates and training programs within the following divisions: business and technology; healthcare; cosmetology; and, trades and industry. The business and technology division prepares students for jobs in the following fields: accounting, administrative assistant, computer support, customer service, legal administrative assistant, digital graphic communications, and soldering. The healthcare program offers certificates and training in medical assisting as well as practical nursing, while the cosmetology training program prepares students for positions as a certified cosmetologist or a certified aesthetician. The trades and industry division provides students with knowledge as well as training in the following fields of study: auto body, automation technology, culinary arts, construction trades, meat cutting, and machine trades.
All these programs are incorporated with hands-on training through the Maricopa Skill Center Village Shops. The shops and services provided include auto detailing, a salon and spa, computer repair, a deli and butcher shop, a restaurant, and refrigerator repair services—all of which are operated and provided by students, under the supervision of experienced instructors.
