Traditional universities typically don’t teach the trades. They don’t have instruction about construction.

So when Grand Canyon University was represented in late April at the Construction Science Technology Apprenticeship Fair at Chase Field in downtown Phoenix, it turned the heads of attendees.

“When I say they were beyond blown away, it’s an understatement,” said Dr. Joe Veres, GCU’s Vice President for Student Success.

Veres frequently heard something like this:

“I can’t believe GCU is doing this. Finally, a university is stepping alongside the trades and finding a clear path for them that will support them.”

The path was paved when the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors approved a $669,471 grant that, with additional funding from Rosendin Electric, enabling GCU to launch a four-course, 16-credit Pre-Apprenticeship for Electricians through the University’s Institute for Workforce Development. Read more