County says Pinal’s workforce talent could bring $10.5 billion in capital investments to area
By Mark Cowling | Pinal Central
FLORENCE — Talent is a key ingredient for companies looking to locate or expand, and Pinal County’s workforce “unequivocally” has it, Pinal Partnership members and guests were told.
“I think there’s been some pent-up demand from our workforce to find quality jobs in Pinal County,” said James Smith, Pinal County economic and workforce development director. “So it really is an opportunity for these companies.” Smith was speaking May 26 on a panel gathered to provide a workforce development update.
With 80% of Pinal County workers leaving the county each workday and parts of San Tan Valley seeing 90% of workers commuting, “a company like LG sees that as an opportunity,” Smith said. LG Energy Solution is building an electric car battery plant in Queen Creek. That area continues to attract interest from other manufacturers, especially tech companies, as does the Interstate 10 corridor, Smith said.
Pinal County estimates it will see $10.5 billion in capital investment and 12,500 direct jobs in the coming years.
“That doesn’t even include mining,” Smith said. This will also lead to opportunities in construction and skilled trades, he added. Attendees also watched a marketing video produced by Pinal County.
Moderator Jordan Rose asked panelists what is compelling about Pinal from an employment perspective.
Kris Kumfert, senior director of human resources for Lucid Motors, said site selection in any auto manufacturing complex comes down to geography, proximity to the supply base and the ability to expand. Lucid’s strong partnerships with the state, the county and the city of Casa Grande were also key, along with what the community had to offer employees.
