Cochise College continues to explore workforce accelerator partnerships to cultivate a sustainable workforce for the future. Recently, the college invited the Arizona Commerce Authority for a special tour and overview of Fort Huachuca, located in Sierra Vista, Arizona.
“This partnership will connect higher education, industry and government to train and certify veterans transforming their military careers into the civilian workforce,” said Dr. J.D. Rottweiler, President, Cochise College. “This effort will also create a significant workforce development opportunity for non-veterans in rural Arizona.”
The half-day tour included visiting the Electronic Proving Ground (EPG) Electromagnetic Environmental Effects (E3) Blacktail Test Facility with a presentation by Fort Huachuca senior leadership on the Fort’s missions. The group then visited the Artificial and Virtual Reality Training Facility (The Shop).
The EPG Blacktail Canyon Test Facility is within the “the bowl” created by the surrounding mountain ranges. This “bowl” is a uniquely “quiet” electromagnetic (EM) environment, and a controlled spectrum allows for clarity in test results. The “bowl” is designated as the Buffalo Soldier Electronic Test Range (BSETR).
“We are really excited about this partnership with Cochise College and the incredible training opportunities with Fort Huachuca,” said Sandra Watson, President & CEO of Arizona Commerce Authority, while touring the facility.
At the Artificial and Virtual Reality Training Facility (The Shop), the three Arizona Commerce representatives participated in immersive visualization whereby mixed reality is used to create emerging situations.
The innovative initiatives aim to provide workforce training to produce a continuous pipeline of employees. This is a unique situation where we can grow economically without an additional strain on our water resources.
“What we have seen today is quite amazing,” said Watson. “Our mission is to be forward-thinking in our response to innovative commerce. These areas allow us to prepare a workforce for future needs.”
Dr. Rottweiler added, “Fort Huachuca is an important partner in educating military students, veterans and their families. Together with the Arizona Commerce Authority, Cochise College can move a step closer to developing accelerated workforce programs that will strengthen and elevate local employment opportunities.”
For information about Cochise College, including industry and military programs, visit www.cochise.edu/.
