Future with Freeport
A technical certification and job placement program with Freeport-McMoRan
Now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Deadline to apply is March 30, 2026.
Learn more about available programs and eligibility requirements below.
All educational and/or experiential backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Education Forward Arizona and Freeport-McMoRan are looking for adventurous individuals who are eager to start a skilled trade program for a new career and to explore possibilities you never knew existed in the mining industry. The scholarship covers an Associate of Applied Science Degree and Certificates of Completion in one of several critical technical areas. Individuals selected for this four-semester scholarship must be full-time students and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This scholarship will provide education, training, a paid summer internship and potential job placement with Freeport-McMoRan.
Summary of scholarship and additional benefits:
- Tuition, Fees, Books, Supplies, Materials
- Living Allowance to help with Food, Housing, Transportation
- Paid Summer Internship
- Success Coach from Education Forward Arizona
- Mentor from Freeport-McMoRan
Choose one of the several technical areas that will lead to a great career.
The Guarantee Your Future with Freeport program focuses on select academic pathways offered at designated community colleges across Arizona beginning in August 2026. This scholarship supports students for up to four semesters as they pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and Certificates of Completion.
Programs offered in Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas will be reviewed to determine alignment with company needs before inclusion in the scholarship program.
| Skilled Trade Program | Career Description | Arizona Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel Technician | Heavy Equipment Diesel Maintenance – Responsible for performing diagnostic, maintenance and repair of heavy equipment such as, but not limited to: Haul Trucks, Water Trucks, Rubber Tire and Track Dozers, Front-end Loaders, and Motor Graders. | Central Arizona College Eastern Arizona College Yavapai College |
| Industrial Electrical | Electrical Instrumentation – Responsible for performing removal, repair and installation of electrical components, electrical systems analysis and diagnosis, advanced troubleshooting and systems/process optimization. | Arizona Western College Coconino Community College Eastern Arizona College Mohave Community College Northland Pioneer College Pima Community College Yavapai College |
| Fixed Plant Maintenance/Advanced Manufacturing | Fixed Plant Industrial Maintenance – Responsible for performing components of diagnostic, maintenance, installation, replacement and repair of fixed plant operational equipment and related systems. | Northland Pioneer College Yavapai College |
| Process Control/Instrumentation Technology | Process Automation – Responsible for performing repair, installation, troubleshooting, & diagnosis of process instrumentation & electrical systems. | Central Arizona College Coconino Community College Eastern Arizona College Mesa Community College Northland Pioneer College Pima Community CollegeYavapai College |
| Welding | Welding and Fabrication – Responsible for performing maintenance, and repair of boilers, pressure vessels, tanks and industrial metal structures, using a variety of complex welding processes such as electric resistance, oxy acetylene or arc torches. | Arizona Western College Central Arizona College Eastern Arizona College Mesa Community College Mohave Community College Northland Pioneer College Pima Community College Yavapai College |
Who is Freeport-McMoRan?
Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) is a leading international metals company with headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona. The company operates large, long-lived geographically diverse assets with significant proven and probable reserves of copper, gold and molybdenum. The portfolio of assets includes mineral districts in Indonesia, North America and South America.
There are nine operational mining sites in Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. The operational sites in rural Arizona are in the towns of Bagdad, Miami, Morenci, Safford, and Sahuarita/Green Valley. The operational sites in Colorado are in Clear Creek and Grand Counties, and the sites in New Mexico are in Grant County.
These rural towns are where neighbors look out for neighbors, have lower crime rates, and entertainment is rooted in beautiful outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and enjoying nature. Community and a strong sense of belonging are significant aspects of rural living which can lead to supportive relationships, increased social interactions, and a greater feeling of security. Communities often come together for various events and festivals, creating a rich cultural tapestry that residents can actively participate in and enjoy.
Why Choose to Work for Freeport-McMoRan?
Careers at Freeport-McMoRan offer competitive pay, full health benefits on the first day, 401(k) matching for your future retirement, paid time off, health and wellness programs, and annual bonuses based on performance.
Freeport-McMoRan believes their greatest strength is their team. They strive for, promote, and foster a workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging, is treated with respect and opinions are valued. Freeport-McMoRan’s inclusive work environment gives everyone the confidence to speak up, share ideas that drive innovation and achieve operational excellence. Their inclusion and diversity principles align with the core values of safety, respect, integrity, excellence, and commitment.
For Additional Information…
Please contact Michelle Alcantar, Director of Workforce Development at Education Forward Arizona: malcantar@educationforwardarizona.org or 480-536-6269