News
Welding Lab opens doors in Parker
September 22, 2026Facility creates four new technical education courses, certificate program on the horizon
Parker, Ariz. (September 22, 2026) – Arizona Western College recently celebrated the opening of the Parker Welding Lab at the AWC Parker Community Center. The dedicated welding facility will expand career and technical education offerings for the Parker community.
"We've worked very hard over the past two years to get the Parker Welding Lab up and running,” said Randy Hartless, Associate Dean for La Paz County. “I'm very excited to get started on some welding programs in La Paz County!"
“The Parker Welding Lab represents an important investment in our students and the community,” said Cinthia Reyes, Executive Director & Dean of Career & Technical Education & Nursing. “By offering welding classes in both the fall and spring semesters, we are creating more opportunities for students to gain hands-on, industry-relevant skills close to home. Our goal is to continue building the welding pathway in Parker so students can prepare for rewarding careers in the skilled trades.”
“After several visits to La Paz County this summer, it’s exciting to see our plans coming to life,” said Susanna Zambrano, Dean of Regional Centers & Adult Education. “Welding is a valuable, high-demand trade that can open doors to strong, well-paid careers. A special thank you to Cinthia Reyes, Tannar Dehart, and Samuel Colton for their leadership in making this possible. We’re listening to our community and working hard to bring more opportunities closer to home."
The first round of welding courses started on September 15th, and the college aims to launch an entry level certification in Spring 2027.
To learn more about welding offerings in La Paz County, contact the Parker Learning Center at awc.lapaz@azwestern.edu or (928) 669-2214.
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Contact:
Randy Hartless
Associate Dean for La Paz County
Arizona Western Entrepreneurial College
randy.hartless@azwestern.edu