East Valley Institute of Technology

East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) is a leading public career and technical education (CTE) school in Mesa, Arizona, supporting students in the Phoenix metropolitan region. Established as Arizona’s first joint technological education district, EVIT has built a reputation for providing high-quality, hands-on training programs that prepare students for immediate employment or further education in high-demand industries. Whether you’re a high school student exploring career options or an adult seeking to enhance your skills, EVIT offers a diverse range of programs designed to meet the needs of today’s competitive job market.

What is the East Valley Institute of Technology?

The East Valley Institute of Technology is a public high school district that serves students in grades 10–12 from 11 East Valley school districts: Apache Junction, Cave Creek, Chandler, Fountain Hills, Gilbert, Higley, J.O. Combs, Mesa, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, and Tempe. EVIT also has tuition-based programs for adult students. With two main campuses in Mesa—the Dr. A. Keith Crandell (Main) Campus and the Power Campus—and other programs at Apache Junction High School, EVIT offers convenient education to a multicultural student body.

EVIT is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and was designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a model for CTE. Its training programs emphasize hands-on, industry-validated training so students can gain certifications, dual-enrolled college credits, and hands-on skills in areas like healthcare, automotive technology, welding, and digital animation.

Programs and Career Training at EVIT

EVIT provides more than 50 career training programs designed to suit both high school students and adult learners. EVIT programs aim to equip students with the skills and qualifications necessary to be competitive in high-need occupations. Some of the most sought-after programs include:

Healthcare and Nursing

Nursing Assistant, Surgical Technologist, and Dental Assistant programs equip the student for medical careers, with access to certification and dual enrollment credits through articulations with Mesa Community College (MCC).

Industrial and Commercial Technology

Practical skills are gained in Welding, Diesel Technologies, and Construction through industry-related certifications such as AWS, ASME, and API.

Human Services

Cosmetology and Esthetician and Skin Care programs offer education for beauty and wellness careers, and graduates receive state licenses.

STEM and Technology

In collaboration with industry giants such as Boeing, Honeywell, and Intel, EVIT’s STEM Academy offers students education for aviation, engineering, and manufacturing careers. Digital Animation and Web Design and Development programs address the expanding tech industry.

Public Safety

Classes like Criminal Justice and Emergency Medical Technology (EMT) prepare students for careers in law enforcement and emergency response.

Dual-enrollment opportunities exist in many of these programs, so students are able to gain college credits while still in high school. For instance, students enrolled in the EMT or Veterinary Technology program may receive up to 12.5 college credits by providing MCC with certificate verification.

Why Choose EVIT?

The East Valley Institute of Technology is unique for a number of reasons:

Hands-On Learning: EVIT prioritizes hands-on, real-life training. Students participate in projects such as creating robots, isolating DNA, or learning welding skills, making them job-ready when they graduate.
Industry Partnerships: EVIT partners with top companies such as Boeing, Honeywell, and Intel, so that its curriculum is in line with current industry demands.
Free for High School Students: High school students from districts with agreements in place can attend EVIT for free, with their home districts providing transportation.
High Graduation and Retention Rates: EVIT has a 100% retention rate for full-time undergraduate students and a 100% acceptance rate, an accessible option for all qualified applicants.
Certifications and Dual Enrollment: The majority of the programs equip students for national or state certifications, and more than 300 dual enrollment credits are offered, providing students with a head start towards their college life.

With a student-to-teacher ratio of 3:1, EVIT provides one-on-one interaction, laying a supportive ground for students to excel academically and professionally.

EVIT’s Campuses and Facilities

EVIT has two main campuses in Mesa, Arizona:

Dr. A. Keith Crandell (Main) Campus

1601 W. Main Street, 65-acre campus with administrative offices, adult education courses, and a range of CTE courses. The campus is located close to the METRO light rail at Longmore/Main.

Power Campus

6625 S. Power Road, campus with additional courses and base for hands-on training.

Both campuses have cutting-edge facilities, giving students access to industry equipment and technology. EVIT also has satellite programs within member high schools, which are generally shorter (50 minutes a day) than the 2.5-hour central campus programs.

Student Demographics and Accessibility

In 2022, EVIT served 600 students, with 14.5% enrolled full-time and 85.5% part-time. The student population included 39.7% White, 39.7% Hispanic/Latino, 12% Black/African American, and smaller percentages of Asian, American Indian, and other ethnicities.56.3% of degree recipients are women, indicating that EVIT values inclusivity.

EVIT’s 100% acceptance rate guarantees all admitted students can pursue its programs, although some high-demand programs also have selective admissions requirements. Financial assistance for 28% of its undergraduate students ensures many can afford education.

EVIT’s Impact on the Community

EVIT plays a vital role in the East Valley community by preparing students for careers that drive Arizona’s economy. Nearly 9 out of 10 parents recommend EVIT, and the same proportion of business partners affirm that EVIT’s training meets industry standards. The institute’s partnerships with local businesses provide internship opportunities, giving students real-world experience and a competitive edge in the job market.

EVIT’s STEM Academy, designed in association with industry leaders, reflects its innovative mindset. The academy gears students up for high-tech careers in manufacturing, engineering, and aviation to meet the escalating need for talented professionals in those sectors.

Challenges and Opportunities

Though EVIT has been widely praised, it has also faced challenges. For example, in 2011, a lease deal with Adelante Healthcare violated legal standards, allowing EVIT to rent at below-market rates. EVIT’s administration has moved to deal with problems like these, however, and has sought transparency and accountability.

In spite of such challenges, EVIT still innovates. Its recent filing for reaffirmation of accreditation with the COE is a testament to its dedication to quality education.

How to Enroll at EVIT

High school students who are interested in EVIT must pre-register through their school counselor during the spring registration. Sophomores may visit an EVIT field trip or the January EVIT Expo to visit programs. Applications can be found at www.evit.edu, and prerequisites can be required for some programs.

Adult learners may investigate tuition-based programs, with financial aid available. To learn more, call EVIT at 480-461-4108 or go to their website.

Conclusion

East Valley Institute of Technology is a pillar of Arizona’s career and technical education, providing students with the skills they need to thrive in today’s working environment. From a broad array of programs to partnerships with industry and a focus on learning through doing, EVIT enables students to fulfill their career aspirations. Whether you’re a high school student seeking a head start or an adult looking to upskill, EVIT provides accessible, high-quality education that opens doors to endless possibilities.