With more building permits than in many previous years, a rise in production volume for local manufacturers, community resources to mentor and strengthen small businesses, a rebound in tourism and a commitment to education, the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce is optimistic about 2015 and economic growth. President and CEO Julie Pastrick is rallying for a new, stronger normal.
“We do believe we are on a very demonstrable upswing, but we still have gains to make in unemployment, job creation and returning more workers to full-time status from underemployment or less than 40 hours weekly,” Pastrick said.
With a collective focus on regional business success, Northern Arizona chambers of commerce are poised to continue tackling common challenges together to improve transportation, infrastructure, education, tourism and the availability of a skilled labor force. The Chamber Alliance of Northern Arizona (CANA) is comprised of community leaders from Holbrook, Winslow, Page, Williams, the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff and Sedona.
In Flagstaff, two existing initiatives are targeted for expansion: Shop Local-Buy Dine Stay Flagstaff is slated for a larger, year-round promotional effort, and Flagstaff Values Teachers will include benefits for charter schools.
“Currently, local teachers can use a discount card for great discounts across most business categories and receive supplies prior to new school year beginnings,” said Pastrick. “There will also be a scholarship fund for teachers to better afford and complete their annual professional development requirements. All of this work is possible through corporate contributions to the Flagstaff Chamber Foundation and resulting from the realization by business that teachers hold the future of our society in the palm of their hands so they should know how much they are valued and appreciated.”
Pastrick says the Flagstaff business community is committed to building tomorrow’s local workforce. More than 30 businesses have partnered with teachers to mentor students in the classroom as well as in the workplace through the Chamber’s Skills for Workplace Success. In addition, local leaders are stressing the importance of skills in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
“I envision tangible growth of CAVIAT [Coconino Association for Vocations, Industry and Technology] throughout the region to meet the demands of our youth who are passionately attracted to STEM learning through the wonders of specialized training in the trades and more,” she said. “It’s amazing to me to see the maturation of students who participate in CAVIAT and the successful career paths they pursue.”
Meanwhile, businesses looking for guidance in 2015 will be able to access the Small Business Development Center, now located in the Flagstaff Chamber through a partnership with the Northern Arizona Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology (NACET).
“Businesses of all types are reporting good numbers and a flurry of activity,” said Pastrick. “Let’s focus on making the new normal stronger throughout 2015.” FBN
By Bonnie Stevens
Flagstaff Business News
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