SCC, WestWorld Break Ground on New Equine Science Facility

Scottsdale Community College, in partnership with the city of Scottsdale, officially broke ground last week on a new permanent facility at WestWorld for the college’s Equine Science program, creating expanded opportunities for workforce development and hands-on training in Arizona’s growing equine industry.

The 22,000-square-foot facility will include 10 horse stalls, two round pens, a hay shed, equipment storage and a dedicated farrier station designed to support real-world equine training and instruction. Construction is expected to be completed by summer 2026 in time for fall semester classes.

College leaders, city officials and community partners gathered to celebrate the milestone and the expanded partnership between Scottsdale Community College and WestWorld, one of the nation’s premier equestrian event venues.

Scottsdale City Manager Greg Caton said the partnership reinforces Scottsdale’s reputation as a leader in equestrian events while supporting the next generation of industry professionals.

“WestWorld has long been a destination for premier equestrian events, and this partnership with Scottsdale Community College strengthens that legacy while investing in the future of Arizona’s equine industry,” Caton said. “This new facility creates meaningful opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in a world-class setting while supporting workforce development, education and economic vitality in our community.”

SCC’s Equine Science program has served students for more than 40 years, combining classroom instruction with hands-on horse handling experience and preparing graduates for careers in veterinary assisting, stable management, training, journalism, photography, teaching and other equine-related fields.

“We’re investing in our students, the industry and local community, and we’re proud to continue Scottsdale’s long tradition of equine excellence,” said Dr. Eric Leshinskie, president of Scottsdale Community College.

Until now, the program relied on temporary training partnerships across the Valley, often requiring students and faculty to travel between multiple locations. The new WestWorld site will centralize clinical instruction and provide students with direct access to high-level competitions and industry events.

“This move allows us to expand our program, strengthen workforce preparation, and create more opportunities for students,” said Jay Clements, SCC’s Equine Science program director. “Being located at WestWorld gives our students better access, better scheduling and better opportunities to gain experience alongside the industry’s top names and events.”

According to the American Horse Council, the U.S. equine industry contributes $177 billion and supports 2.2 million jobs nationwide.