Arizona’s workforce is re-skilling to fill state’s growing industries
The Arizona workforce is primed for growth in coming years, and a recent study reveals degrees and certifications aren't losing their value.
Arizona’s workforce is primed for growth as data, healthcare and business centers continue to emerge in the state, and a recent study asserts that academic degrees and certifications still carry weight along with experience for employers hoping to fill new jobs.
For example, those seeking to advance their careers or start a whole new one have ample opportunities in the Phoenix area.
The world’s largest contract chipmaker, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), announced in March 2025 that more than 40,000 jobs would be created over four years across six fabrication plants, two advanced packaging facilities and an R&D center.
On the healthcare side of things, an estimated 700 medical and support positions are set to be created at Dignity Health’s 300,000-square-foot medical facility, which is coming in 2028 to the same site as the Arizona Cardinals’ new headquarters.
Jobs are becoming plentiful in these sectors, and that means opportunities for Arizonans hoping to make a career leap. But that doesn’t change that going back to school can be intimidating.
Costs and time are often the primary headaches for people pursuing a new degree, especially if they are providing for their family and can’t afford to put their life on hold.
Western Governors University helps those looking to further their education with a completely online and self-paced degree program that exists to teach you the skills needed for your next chapter.
Data from the WGU Workforce Decoded: 2025-26 Annual Report supports the importance of obtaining a degree, as more than 67% of the 3,147 Southwest region employers surveyed said a degree is “very important” or “somewhat important.” Concerning the value of a certificate, more than 58% said it is “very valuable” or “somewhat valuable” in enhancing an applicant’s credibility.
Additionally, the increasing influence of artificial intelligence has created a skill gap and made degrees and certificates more desirable to employers. Nearly 54% of respondents in the same survey conducted in 2025 answered either “We prioritize candidates who are comfortable using AI tools” or “We are hiring candidates with AI-specific skills or certifications.”
Where tech is the focus, WGU’s School of Technology provides the opportunity to earn both IT certifications and degrees (bachelor’s or master’s).
You can learn the AI skills you need for what’s next with one of the school’s numerous tracks, including its Bachelor of Science in AI Engineering degree and AI Skills Fundamentals Certificate.
Western Governors University offers a fixed tuition for each term, whether you are pursuing a degree, certificate or license in business, technology, nursing or education.
Mentors and counselors, in addition to instructors, are at your disposal within each line of study, as WGU believes you should profit from a degree, not the only way around.
The university continues to evolve as the needs of companies evolve, “re-imagining how education is designed, delivered and accessed” through employer partnerships, scholarships and more.
Start your higher education journey at WGU by applying online today.
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