Creating connections in Tucson

The Tucson Metro Chamber (TMC) is working to connect talent, industry and training through its Tucson Metro Pipeline set to launch in 2020.  

“The goal is to identify those skills gaps and then be able to direct that talent to where they can close that skills gap,” said Amber Smith, Tucson Metro Chamber president and CEO.

TMC plans to use a technology platform that talent and employers can use to explore their options, connect and discover opportunities.  

“Someone that wants to do career exploration can go on a website, put in their information, and be able to see what opportunities are out there. But then, it’s important for the employers to also engage and put their opportunities, as well,” Smith said.

She explained that TMC will partners between Pima Community College and local industry.

“[Pima Community College] has been able to stand up programs quickly to address incoming employer needs as necessary. We want to be able to scale up that same approach in a broader fashion,” Smith explained.

The Tucson Metro Pipeline platform is also geared to make the hiring process and job-searching process easier and more effective by connecting users to existing workforce development resources.

“It’s about really showcasing the best Tucson has to offer for talent to live and as well for employers to locate,” Smith said. “We know that employers typically will follow talent. And, so we want to make sure we’re getting out the best messages possible as to why Tucson is a fantastic community to work in.”

Tucson is home to the University of Arizona, a thriving business community and a variety of activities for people of all ages making it an attractive area for employers and talented workers to call “home.”

“Of course, we have our good climate and mountains and environment, so you have a ton of outdoor activities. But, you also have this thriving downtown life as well. The weekends there are dozens of opportunities to be able to participate in a music event, a festival, a museum or go for a hike,” Smith said.

Tucson residents can also live in a happening, downtown area or they can live on peaceful acres about 25 minutes away.

“Tucson is a place where you can be you and you get to define what that looks like,” she said.

Partners of the program include Pima Community College, Southern Arizona Leadership Council, Startup Tucson and Pipeline AZ.