I started my AAS through Rio Salado College in 2004 and learned all of my Technical skills while I was at Perryvillle prison through their Construction Program. It was awesome to learn a trade hands on as we started building houses for Habitat for Humanity (9) homes my crew built. Then Rio Salado purchased their current Administrate building in Tempe, AZ. Rio helped the Prison crew to learn OJT (on the job training) while taking all the technical courses I.e., Carpentry level 1&2, Electrical level 1&2, Plumbing, Framing and Drywall. Most of what I learned in the Prison program taught me a career and not just a job.
Since getting out in 2007 I have worked for Rio Salado College in their Maintenance and Operations department for close to 10 years moving up from a beginning Utility Worker Position to Management and I could not have done this without the help and support of MCCD and Rio Salado College. The Maricopa Community Colleges are an excellent place for any age to go back to College and learn a new Career or Cerifications without all the huge school loans/debt. I highly recommend going to Community College, take advantage of every avenue available to you to advance your careers and even your life goals.