Workforce & Economic Data

Arizona Western College is committed to supporting economic development and workforce advancement throughout Yuma and La Paz Counties. This page provides access to data and research highlighting the college's role in driving regional growth, improving social mobility, and contributing to the local economy. Reports featured here, including our Semi-Annual Workforce and Economic Reports, Social Mobility Reports, and Economic Impact Studies, offer insight into labor market trends, educational outcomes, and the value AWC brings to the communities we serve.

Labor Market Intelligence Powered by Chmura and JobsEQ

To support workforce development and economic planning in Yuma and La Paz Counties, the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Research leverages JobsEQ, a labor market analytics tool developed by Chmura Economics & Analytics. This powerful resource gives our team access to current, localized data on industries, occupations, wages, demographics, and economic trends. The insights gained through JobsEQ help AWC identify workforce gaps, monitor regional employment shifts, and align educational programs with labor market demand. These data support strategic planning, program development, and external partnerships. 

If you're seeking clear, data-driven insights into our region's workforce, the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Research can provide custom tables, charts, or maps to help visualize local trends. Contact us at IERG@azwestern.edu.

Semi-Annual Workforce and Economic Reports:

The Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Research at Arizona Western College compiles semi-annual workforce reports using JobsEQ labor market data to explore regional economic trends, including historical and current unemployment rates, labor force characteristics, and job projections. These reports offer in-depth analysis of how AWC students' educational pathways align with workforce needs in Yuma and La Paz Counties. The insights gathered help guide strategic planning, inform new program development, and support career readiness and job placement efforts across the college.

Economic Impact of AWC

Arizona Western College plays a vital role in the economic health and development of Yuma and La Paz Counties. From fueling local job growth to boosting alumni earnings, AWC contributes to the region's prosperity through workforce development, institutional spending, and long-term educational outcomes. This section explores AWC's economic footprint, both at the community level and through the individual success of our students. 

Economic Impact Studies (EIS)

AWC partners with external experts to conduct comprehensive economic impact studies that quantify the college's value to the region. These studies examine factors such as institutional operations, student and alumni spending, workforce development, and return on investment. The findings highlight AWC's contribution to job creation, income generation, and overall economic growth. 

• 2025 AWC EIS - Main Report
• 2025 AWC EIS - Executive Summary
• 2025 AWC EIS - Fact Sheet
• 2025 AZ EIS Community Colleges - Main Report
• 2025 AZ EIS Community Colleges - Executive Summary
• 2025 AZ EIS Community Colleges - Fact Sheet

Social Mobility Reports

In addition to Institutional-level economic impact, AWC is committed to advancing student-level economic mobility. Social Mobility reports examine how education at AWC improves long-term outcomes for individuals and families, particularly for those from historically underserved communities. These reports provide insight into how AWC supports upward economic movement through access, completion, and career readiness. 

Please contact our office if you need data-driven empirical evidence of our region’s workforce.