City to City Phoenix Concludes with a Focus on Workforce and Industry Collaboration

The Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce has successfully concluded the final day of its City-to-City Leadership Visit to Phoenix. This year’s trip emphasized collaboration across sectors to strengthen regional economies and workforce ecosystems, with sessions featuring leading experts in advanced manufacturing, workforce development and cultural engagement.

Session 10: Collaboration for a Thriving Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem

Day three began with a compelling session on the development of a thriving semiconductor and advanced manufacturing ecosystem in Phoenix. Thomas Maynard, Senior Vice President of Business Development for the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, shared insights on how the region's strategic collaborations are bolstering the semiconductor industry, which plays a pivotal role in the future of technology and economic growth.

Attendees then toured the Heard Museum, an iconic institution dedicated to showcasing American Indian art and culture. Dan Hagerty, Chief Advancement and Engagement Officer, highlighted the museum’s mission to connect Indigenous creativity with the world. The Heard Museum’s rich history and world-class exhibitions exemplify Phoenix's commitment to preserving and promoting American Indian heritage.

Session 11: Powering the Region with Workforce Collaborations

The final session of the day, "Powering the Region with Workforce Collaborations," focused on tackling talent pipeline challenges through robust employer-education partnerships. Jennifer Mellor, Chief Innovation Officer at the Phoenix Chamber Foundation, and Daniel Barajas, Chief Officer for Workforce & Economic Development Strategy at Maricopa County Community Colleges, discussed innovative strategies to address workforce shortages and adapt to the needs of industries like advanced manufacturing. Topics included upskilling, reskilling, and the importance of aligning educational programs with industry demands to ensure a ready and capable workforce.

The Wichita delegation also noted the announcement of a new partnership between the owners of the Arizona Boardwalk and Wichita-based Lange Real Estate for the development of Champtown in Park City, Kansas. Modeled after the successful Arizona Boardwalk, Champtown will include an aquarium, butterfly wonderland, and multiple family-friendly entertainment attractions, which are projected to significantly boost tourism and economic activity in the Wichita region.

"The connections and ideas exchanged during our City-to-City trip have been invaluable. Learning from Phoenix’s forward-thinking approach to workforce development and industry collaboration has equipped our Wichita leaders with fresh perspectives on how to accelerate growth in our own region," said John Rolph, President and CEO of the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce.