Arizona Career Planning

Launch your career in Arizona's rapidly growing economy with strategic planning, innovation focus, and comprehensive preparation for professional success.

Arizona's Key Industries

Technology

Rapidly growing tech sector including software, semiconductors, and innovation

+25%
Job Growth
$85,000+
Avg Salary

Major Employers:

Intel
Microchip Technology
GoDaddy
Infusionsoft

Key Skills:

Programming
Data analysis
Software development
Innovation mindset
Aerospace & Defense

Major aerospace and defense contractors with advanced manufacturing

+15%
Job Growth
$95,000+
Avg Salary

Major Employers:

Raytheon
Honeywell Aerospace
Boeing
Lockheed Martin

Key Skills:

Engineering expertise
Project management
Security clearance
Technical innovation
Healthcare

Growing healthcare sector serving Arizona's expanding population

+20%
Job Growth
$75,000+
Avg Salary

Major Employers:

Banner Health
HonorHealth
Mayo Clinic
Dignity Health

Key Skills:

Clinical experience
Patient care
Medical technology
Healthcare administration
Renewable Energy

Leading solar energy production and green technology development

+30%
Job Growth
$80,000+
Avg Salary

Major Employers:

First Solar
NextEra Energy
APS
SunPower

Key Skills:

Solar technology
Environmental engineering
Project management
Sustainability focus

Career Development Resources

Arizona@Work

Statewide workforce development and career services system

Statewide
Career counseling
Job placement
Skills training
Industry partnerships
University Career Centers

Comprehensive career services at Arizona colleges and universities

All major universities
Career advising
Internship programs
Job fairs
Alumni networks
Innovation Ecosystem

Thriving startup and innovation support throughout Arizona

Phoenix and Tucson
Business incubators
Startup accelerators
Funding opportunities
Mentorship
Industry Partnerships

Strong connections between academia and Arizona industries

Major universities
Co-op programs
Research partnerships
Internships
Direct hiring

Four-Year Career Preparation Timeline

Freshman Year

Exploration & Foundation

Discover interests and build strong foundation

Key Activities:

Career assessments
Major exploration
Campus involvement
Skill building
Sophomore Year

Skill Development

Develop relevant skills and professional network

Key Activities:

Declare major
Leadership opportunities
Career fairs
Internship preparation
Junior Year

Experience & Innovation

Gain practical experience and showcase innovation

Key Activities:

Internships/co-ops
Innovation projects
Industry connections
Portfolio development
Senior Year

Career Launch

Successfully launch career in Arizona's economy

Key Activities:

Job applications
Graduate school prep
Interview skills
Transition planning

Arizona Career Outlook by Field

Technology

$75,000 - $140,000
Very High Demand

Aerospace Engineering

$80,000 - $150,000
Very High Demand

Healthcare

$60,000 - $160,000
Very High Demand

Renewable Energy

$70,000 - $130,000
Very High Demand

Education

$45,000 - $75,000
Moderate Demand

Business

$55,000 - $110,000
High Demand

Ready to Launch Your Arizona Career?

Use CollegeCompass to connect your college experience with career success in Arizona's thriving economy.