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June 2026 - Superintendent's Update

Changing Lives - Superintendent's Update header image with Dr. Chad Wilson

June 2, 2026

Congratulations, Class of 2026
Over three ceremonies in May, the East Valley Institute of Technology celebrated the accomplishments of 4,500 East Valley high school students who completed their career training programs at EVIT central campuses. Most of these dedicated students completed two years of training for a half-day every day. They earned professional quality certifications and licenses and many are already employed. If you weren’t able to attend, be sure to watch this recap video for a first-hand look at what EVIT means to thousands of East Valley families: 2026 Completion Ceremonies.

Grant to Expand Trade Opportunities
EVIT has been awarded a generous grant from The Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation to expand trade opportunities across the East Valley. The grant will allow EVIT to add 100 more seats its new welding campus at Mesa Public Schools’ Skyline High School, eliminating the waitlist. Funds will also be used to purchase industry-standard equipment for EVIT’s Welding, HVAC-R and Electrical programs to ensure students train on current technology aligned with workforce needs.

Technical Skills Assessments
Before the school year ended in May, over 3,800 EVIT students took their Technical Skills Assessments, achieving a pass rate of nearly 88%. Five EVIT programs posted the highest average scores in Arizona on their assessments: Fashion Design, HVAC, Interior Design, Network Security and Pharmacy Technician.

Hope for the Future
EVIT’s first group of students at HopeTech, a residential center on the EVIT Main Campus for youth who are transitioning out of foster care, completed their career training in May. They earned certifications in Aesthetics, Medical Assistant, Automotive, Plumbing, Cosmetology, Dental Assistant, Radio/Audio Production, HVAC-R, Diesel Technologies and Emergency Medical Technician. Congrats, HopeTech grads!

Removing Financial Barriers
EVIT has received a generous donation from the Mesa Public Schools Foundation to offset course fees for Mesa district students enrolled in trades programs. The Bison Scholarship removes financial barriers and expands opportunities for students by reducing course-related costs for those pursuing certificates in trade and career-focused fields. Thank you, Mesa Public Schools Foundation!

Thank you for your support in helping EVIT change lives.