FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
South32 today celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of students from the Electrician Certificate Program at the Santa Cruz Center, recognizing 11 graduates who have completed the inaugural workforce training initiative designed to prepare Santa Cruz County residents for skilled trades careers both at Hermosa and throughout Southern Arizona.
The program, developed in partnership with the Santa Cruz County Provisional Community College District and Pima Community College, represents a first-of-its-kind opportunity for local residents to earn an electrician certificate without leaving the county. Totaling more than half a million dollars, South32 fully funded the program, covering tuition and program costs for every student while also investing in classroom improvements needed to bring the curriculum to the Santa Cruz Center.
“Today’s graduates represent exactly what we've envisioned since the beginning of this partnership, which is local people gaining in-demand skills that will benefit them, their families and our entire community for years to come,” said Pat Risner, President of South32 Hermosa. “Whether these graduates pursue careers at Hermosa or elsewhere, they are helping build the skilled workforce Southern Arizona needs. That's something worth celebrating.”
“These graduates are proof of what can happen when education and industry work together on a shared commitment to creating opportunities close to home,” said Greg Lucero, CEO of the Santa Cruz County Provisional Community College District. “This first graduating class is just the beginning of a long-term partnership that will continue expanding access to high-quality education and economic opportunity for the people of Santa Cruz County.”
The Electrician Certificate Program was launched to address a growing need for skilled electricians across Arizona while creating accessible, family-sustaining career pathways for local residents. Electricians are among the earliest and most essential skilled trades needed at Hermosa, but the training also prepares graduates for opportunities across construction, manufacturing, utilities and other industries.
South32'sinvestment in workforce development reflects the company’s long-term commitment to ensuring Santa Cruz County residents are positioned to benefit from new economic opportunities created by Hermosa and the region's broader industrial growth, including a goal of hiring 80% of the workforce from Santa Cruz County.
The graduation ceremony, held Friday at Nogales High School, featured remarks from leaders representing South32, the Santa Cruz County Provisional Community College District, and Pima Community College, as well as student speakers reflecting on their achievements.
The success of the first cohort comes as the program continues to expand. A second Electrician Certificate Program cohort will begin later this month with 16additional Santa Cruz County-based students enrolled.
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About South32 Hermosa
Located in a historic mining district in the Patagonia Mountains of Southern Arizona, South32 Hermosa is currently the only advanced mine development project in the United States that could produce up to five federally designated critical minerals — including zinc and manganese — both of which are essential minerals for powering the nation’s energy future. Learn more at www.south32hermosa.com. Hermosa is a polymetallic development comprised of a zinc-lead-silver sulfide deposit, a battery-grade manganese deposit and an extensive, highly prospective land package with the potential for further polymetallic and copper mineralization.
Media relations
Lina Betancourt
+1 514-210-1822
Lina.Betancourt@south32.net
