Talent
Arizona is nationally known as a top state for workforce quality and availability, ranking #2 in the country and #1 in higher education degree opportunities.
A high number of college graduates, substantial young professionals’ network, and large Spanish speaking population are just a few of the highlights within our workforce.
Companies have a robust workforce within close proximity because Tucson attracts and develops strong talent through its institutions of higher learning. Leading the way is the University of Arizona (which includes one of the nation's top-ranked business schools, Eller College of Management and McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship) with a total student enrollment count of 46,932 annually plus Pima Community College’s 5,000 graduate count per year, creating a skilled workforce pipeline. The higher education institutions work directly with employers to engage students providing internships to test-drive talent. Partnering with industry, companies are active in training the workforce to meet their needs both now and into the future.
Additionally, a large and diverse veteran workforce calls Tucson home. Military personnel from Davis-Monthan AFB and Fort Huachuca enjoy Tucson and often transition into the workforce after their time in service. Several veteran programs are in place for military to have the opportunity to work with an organization for six months while the military pays their full salary and benefits. Arizona SkillBridge program connects service members with industry partners for specific career skills training. Tucson’s diverse talent pool is largely bilingual and complementary to a wide range of industries.
There is a significant number of millennial rising leaders being developed by programs including: Tucson Young Professionals, Greater Tucson Leadership, and Executive Leadership Council.
A statewide system of workforce development partners, the Arizona Workforce Connection, offers free services to employers seeking skilled new hires or training resources for existing workers. This network of one-stop centers and online services includes:
- Seamless Access to Workforce Resources
- Employee Recruitment
- Labor Market Information
- Job Training and Hiring Tax Credits
- Customized Training and Skills Upgrading
- Solutions to Common Employee Barriers