CHANDLER, Ariz. — Thanks to a shared commitment to building the workforce of tomorrow, the City of Chandler and the Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) have partnered to expand career readiness opportunities for local high school students. Through a $10,000 investment from the city, more students were able to earn industry-recognized credentials during the 2024–25 school year.
The one-time allocation, initiated by Chandler City Councilmembers Jane Poston and Angel Encinas, was used to support CUSD’s efforts in both career exploration and credentialing across its high schools.
“This partnership is a win for our students, our schools, and Chandler’s growing business community,” said Councilmember Jane Poston. “We’re proud to collaborate with CUSD in preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators and skilled professionals.”
A portion of the funding supported the Build 4 Tomorrow Career Expo, hosted March 6 at Perry High School. This annual event connects students with local industry partners and post-secondary institutions, helping them explore a wide range of high-demand career paths.
The remaining funds provided more than 100 vouchers to pay for assessments required to earn industry certifications, helping students from Arizona College Prep, Basha, Casteel, Chandler, Hamilton, and Perry High Schools earn credentials in key fields such as automotive technologies, early childhood education, and sports medicine.
“By investing in credentialing and career exposure, we are opening doors to real opportunities for Chandler students,” said Councilmember Angel Encinas. “This effort strengthens our city’s talent pipeline and prepares students to succeed in today’s competitive job market.”
During the 2024–25 school year:
- 2,317 CUSD students participated in credentialing exams.
- 265 credential earners were 18 or older, ready to enter the workforce.
- 21 different CTE programs offered credentials, with an average cost of $83 per exam.
City-sponsored credentials earned included:
- Automotive Technologies (ASE Certification) – 12 students
- Early Childhood Education (Paraeducator Credential) – 42 students
- Sports Medicine (American Red Cross EMR) – 28 students
“CUSD is grateful for the City of Chandler’s support in expanding access to industry credentials,” said Superintendent Frank Narducci. “Together, we are equipping students with skills that serve them well beyond graduation—whether they choose to continue their education or enter the workforce immediately.”
CUSD’s Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs are built to ensure that every participating student completes at least one career pathway. Programs offered include:
- Agriscience
- Automotive & Robotics
- Automobile Technologies
- Bioscience
- Cabinetmaking
- Culinary Arts
- Digital Animation
- Digital Communication
- Digital Photography
- Early Childhood Education
- Education Professions
- Film & TV Production
- Graphic Design
- Marketing
- Network Security
- Nursing Services
- Semiconductors
- Software and App Design
- Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation
- Stagecraft
- sUAS Drone
This partnership exemplifies a shared vision between the City of Chandler and Chandler Unified School District to provide meaningful educational opportunities aligned with the region’s economic priorities and workforce needs.
Media contacts:
Stephanie Romero
Public Information Officer, City of Chandler
480-782-2231
Stephanie Ingersoll
Executive Director, Marketing & Communications
Chandler Unified School District
480-812-7010