Eastern Arizona College leaders say construction of the institution’s new cosmetology and healthcare complex is progressing faster than expected, positioning the facility to open ahead of the Fall 2026 semester and significantly expand educational and medical services in the Gila Valley.
Members of the College’s District Executive Team recently toured the 19,300-square-foot project site in Thatcher and confirmed that work remains both on schedule and within the $15 million budget. The leadership group included President Todd Haynie, Vice President of Administration Heston Welker, Vice President of Academics and Student Affairs Susan Wood, Chief Government Relations Officer Keith Alexander, and Chief Information Officer Tom Thompson.
Located just south of U.S. Highway 70 on College Avenue, the facility will house an expanded Cosmetology Program and the new Copper Mountain Clinic Thatcher, a community healthcare center designed to increase access to primary and behavioral health services. The project will double the College’s cosmetology training capacity and create new clinical learning opportunities for students in multiple healthcare disciplines.
Exterior brickwork on the cosmetology building is complete, and crews are installing the storefront system. Inside, walls have been textured, allowing painting and ceiling grid installation to begin. Electrical conduit pathways are being finalized, and building signage featuring the College’s purple and gold EA shield is in production.
At the future clinic space on the north end, walls are framed and mechanical, plumbing, and electrical rough-ins are nearly finished. Brick veneer installation has started, and site crews have completed backfilling of stormwater retention tanks. Work on parking areas and equipment pads for the new transformer is also underway.
“This project is not only ahead of schedule and on budget, but it’s a testament to what can be accomplished through careful planning and strong partnerships,” said Heston Welker, EA vice president of administration. “I’m grateful for the dedication of CORE Construction, SPS+ Architects, and EA’s Facility Planning and Construction Department. Their work will serve our students and community for generations to come.”
College officials emphasized that the project is being financed through institutional reserve funds and state appropriations, avoiding the need for bonds or local tax hikes. Leaders credited Arizona lawmakers for their role in securing support.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Senator David Gowan, Representative Gail Griffin, and Representative Lupe Diaz for championing state funding that directly supports our students and communities,” said Todd Haynie, EA president. “Their continued support helps us expand opportunities and meet workforce needs across the Gila Valley.”
The Cosmetology Program has carried a waitlist for more than ten years, reflecting strong regional demand for trained professionals. The new facility will include modern classrooms, full-service salons, and dedicated areas for skincare and nail technology, allowing students to train in a real-world environment.
Next door, Copper Mountain Clinic Thatcher will provide expanded healthcare access while serving as a clinical training hub for EA students studying phlebotomy, medical imaging, and medical assisting. College officials say the integration of education and patient care will strengthen workforce pipelines for local hospitals and clinics.
“This project demonstrates our commitment to providing hands-on, career-ready education in cosmetology and healthcare,” Haynie said. “It’s a transformational space that will serve our students and community for generations.”
The project was designed by SPS+ Architects and is being constructed by CORE Construction, a firm known for public-sector facilities across Arizona. EA’s Facility Planning and Construction Department continues to oversee coordination between contractors and academic programs to ensure the building meets long-term instructional needs.
Administrators expect interior finishes and equipment installation to accelerate through 2026, with the cosmetology building slated to welcome students before the Fall semester. The clinic is expected to follow on a similar timeline.
College leaders say the development represents one of the most significant investments in vocational and healthcare education in EA history—one aimed at strengthening both student opportunity and community wellbeing.
Originally reported by Kris McBride in EAC.
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