EVIT partners on apprenticeships for LGES construction in Queen Creek

The East Valley Institute of Technology has partnered with the Alliance of Battery Equipment Contractors to deliver a workforce training program for LG Energy Solution’s electric vehicle battery factory construction project in Queen Creek.

Through this agreement, five companies involved in the project will welcome apprentices from EVIT’s registered apprenticeship programs in electrical, plumbing, and structural metal fabrication and fitting.

“We are pleased to be able to work with these companies on this project that is so important to Queen Creek, one of our EVIT communities,” EVIT Superintendent Chad Wilson stated in a press release. “Paid apprenticeships are a great option for students who want to earn while they learn, and a great option for businesses that need a skilled workforce.”

EVIT will lead the development and delivery of theoretical training modules for students. The alliance will provide input in developing curricula aligned with practical field requirements.

This multi-year project “not only provides employers with skilled, experienced workers eager to work, but also connects them with responsible and reliable apprentices who are ready to grow in their trade. At the same time, it creates valuable job opportunities that strengthen and expand Arizona’s workforce,” the release continued.

In March 2022, Queen Creek approved a development agreement with the South Korean company LGES. A month later the company successfully bid on 640 acres of state land, purchasing the first 320 acres with an option to buy the remaining 320 acres, according to Queen Creek's economic development department.

The LGES complex site at Ironwood and Pecos roads will house two facilities dubbed projects Alpha and Gemini as part of a $5.5 billion investment in the town.

In July 2024, Queen Creek announced that LGES was pausing plans on Project Gemini as “they are evaluating their U.S. projects.” Project Gemini was announced in March 2023.

Project Alpha, on the north end of the complex site closest to Pecos Road, will be a cylindrical battery plant called LG Energy Solution Arizona. It will produce 46-Series batteries for electric vehicles.

Project Gemini, which is set for the south side of the complex closest to Germann Road, will be an ESS battery manufacturing facility called LG Energy Solution Arizona ESS that will produce lithium iron phosphate pouch-type batteries for energy storage systems.