National Technical Institute and United Way of Pinal County Partner to Expand Skilled Workforce Opportunities

Phoenix – National Technical Institute (NTI), a state-approved trade school with campuses in Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Houston offering fast-track training in HVAC, plumbing and electrical, and United Way of Pinal County have joined forces to enhance access to skilled workforce training for Pinal County residents through the Skilled Workforce Program. This collaborative effort helps students access the financial support they need to complete accredited degrees and industry-recognized certifications that lead to stable, high-demand careers.  

Through the partnership, NTI will help eligible participants in Pinal County connect with funding, alleviating financial barriers for those who need it most.  

“Supporting workforce development in the region is core to our Phoenix campus mission,” said NTI’s Phoenix Campus Director Jeff Kozloski. “By connecting motivated learners with financial resources and quality technical training, we are helping individuals build rewarding careers and strengthening the economic fabric of Pinal County.” 

United Way of Pinal County’s Skilled Workforce Program provides up to $3,000 in support for training and certification costs and integrates financial wellness workshops to ensure long-term success for participants. The program is designed to benefit both individuals and the community by increasing employability, boosting earning potential, and addressing local workforce needs.  

“Expanding access to workforce training is essential to the prosperity of Pinal County,” said United Way of Pinal County Chief Executive Officer Allen Villalobos. “Our partnership with NTI will empower more people to pursue credentials that lead to meaningful employment and help reduce barriers that too often prevent local residents from pursuing the careers they deserve.” 

Students are already taking advantage 
Six students have already benefited from this partnership, with new participants enrolling each semester. Pinal County residents can apply for a trade school scholarship by submitting the following: 

• Official tuition bill or invoice 

• A video (60 seconds or less) with a statement of what this would mean for you 

• Two references in writing (not from family or friends) 

• Most recent tax return (1040) 

To apply visit –https://www.ntitraining.com/united-way-of-pinal-county-skilled-workforce-program/. 

A Growing Need  
This partnership comes at a time of growing demand for trade careers, driven by factors such as the high cost of college, the mass retirement of Baby Boomers and the resilience of these roles to automation and AI. In Arizona, HVAC technician employment is projected to grow nearly 18% over the next decade, with almost 1,000 annual job openings. Similar strong demand is forecast for electricians and plumbers, highlighting the critical need for trained skilledtrades professionals in the region. 

NTI has established itself as a pioneer in trade education, offering affordable tuition, flexible financing options, and accelerated programs that allow students to graduate in as little as 12–16 weeks. With expert instructors and a curriculum aligned to employer needs, these fast-track training programs position the school as a leader in preparing skilled professionals for careers in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical trades, equipping students for an evolving, in-demand workforce.