Out-of-School Time workforce conversation recap and the virtual internship opportunity


December 2025

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Building National Connections to Strengthen Youth Workforce Development


ARIZONA@WORK Coconino County’s Title I youth service provider, Eckerd Connects, was proudly represented by staff members Cori and Sandra at NAWDP’s Youth Symposium in New Orleans at the end of last month. The symposium is one of the nation’s largest annual gatherings of workforce development professionals serving youth, bringing together more than 900 attendees from across the country.


This experience provided an incredible opportunity to build national connections, exchange best practices, form new partnerships, and explore innovative programs and solutions to better serve youth in our community.



The Eckerd Connects Youth Program is ready to blast off!

Recap of Notable Events & Highlights

FUSD Native American Parent Resource Event


On December 3, ARIZONA@WORK Coconino County Title I service provider, Eckerd Connects, was represented by James Betoney at the FUSD Native American Parent Resource Fair at Summit High School in Flagstaff. Families and students learned about Youth EXPLO and Work Experience (WEX) opportunities, with many expressing strong interest. The evening wrapped up with Navajo tacos and live Christmas music.

Justice Bus Brings Legal and Support Services to Leupp


On December 11, the Justice Bus brought essential services to the Leupp Chapter House on the Navajo Nation. ARIZONA@WORK Coconino County Title I and Title III staff were on hand to provide workforce resources, helping community members with job searches, resumes, and career guidance. Residents also accessed legal support, voter registration, medical services, and wellness resources—all in one location, making these services more accessible across the reservation.


Photo credited: Dianna Kalandros, CJCC

Strengthening Northern Arizona’s OST Workforce


Sandra Darling from Eckerd Connects, ARIZONA@WORK Coconino County Title I service provider, attended the Northern Arizona OST Workforce Community Conversation, focused on supporting out-of-school time (OST) professionals. Attendees reviewed workforce data, discussed challenges like low pay and burnout, and brainstormed solutions for recruitment, training, and retention. Next steps include actionable ideas for AZCASE and follow-up surveys.


Data Sources:

NAA Power of Us Report

AZ Town Hall Report – Building Arizona’s Workforce


Success Story

Congratulations to Our CAMT Graduates


James Betoney from ARIZONA@WORK Coconino County Title IB joined the CAMT graduation, celebrating two participants who earned their Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT) certificates through Coconino Community College!

CAMT is a nationally recognized credential that builds skills, confidence, and career opportunities—perfect for those ready to advance or explore a new career path.


Program Highlights

Virtual Internship Opportunity for High School Students


Arizona Future is offering a virtual internship opportunity for high school students. The program runs January 20–February 27 (50 hours total) and offers a $750 stipend upon successful completion. Space is limited and spots are filling quickly, so interested students are encouraged to register as soon as they receive parent or guardian permission. Students will be added to a waitlist if the program fills. Registration closes December 31.



For more information, contact Jennifer Hernandez at Arizona Future at jennifer.hernandez@arizonafuture.org.



The Northern Arizona Good Jobs Network (NAGJN) is moving into Phase III!


The Coconino County Workforce Development Board is expanding business services outreach to better connect local employers with workforce solutions and NAGJN initiatives. This phase focuses on leveraging training programs, identifying skill gaps, and creating pathways to sustainable, in-demand employment. We’re committed to helping Northern Arizona businesses thrive while ensuring our workforce has the tools to succeed. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities and updates!


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ARIZONA@WORK Coconino’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program is 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Labor through awards totaling $1,459,487.