PHX Reporter

Maricopa County has ranked No. 1 in the Talent Attraction Scorecard, which was recently released by Lightcast, a labor market analytics leader.

According to a release from the Arizona Commerce Authority, the report ranks Arizona and Maricopa County as nationwide leaders in adding skilled jobs and workers over the past five years. Maricopa County was No. 1 in the Talent Attraction Scorecard for the fifth time in six years, the release added.

“Over the last eight years, we’ve established an environment that serves as a magnet for jobs and people and we aren’t slowing down,” Gov. Doug Ducey said in the release. “Arizona not only is a place for high-tech innovation, it’s a state where anyone can get a good education, enroll in skills training, and find a quality job waiting for them."

The Talent Attraction score is based on the attraction and ability to retain skilled workers, the release explained. The Commerce Authority reported that 58,200 more residents came to Maricopa County between July 1, 2020-2021, the biggest numerical population gain of any American county.

"Our state believes in empowering and encouraging work. This is our recipe for boundless success - one that promises continued opportunity and prosperity for generations to come," Ducey said.

Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, said Arizona has a strategy toward retaining skilled workers, and it's paying off.

“One of Arizona’s top strengths is our talented and skilled people - and this report is further recognition,” she said. “These rankings reflect our proactive and collaborative approach to building connections among universities, community colleges, and industry - charting new paths for students and workers to gain in-demand skills. With the eyes of the world on Arizona, we look forward to continually building on these efforts.”