Stories - AZPM

More than 470,000 Arizonans have filed for unemployment in the last six weeks. New expanded jobless benefits begin in May, but advocates worry it won’t be enough to offset the massive damage from the coronavirus.

AZ unemployment ticks up, remains low

Joblessness went up slightly for a third time in four months, but remains near historic low.

A now-hiring sign is posted at Chase Bank in downtown Phoenix. February 2023

State forecast predicts AZ job growth rate to triple national rate

AZ economists see 1.3% growth on average through 2033.

Arizona unemployment remained historically low in August

The state's first-ever streak of sub-3.5% unemployment continued through the end of the summer.

AZ Dept. of Education survey: teachers leaving due to low pay and student behavioral issues

The state department's survey also found that a majority agreed that they did not feel respected as K-12 teachers and felt burnt out.

Help Wanted A now-hiring sign is posted at Chase Bank in downtown Phoenix. February 2023

The Buzz: What does record-low unemployment mean for Arizona?

There are positives and negatives for the state when there are so few people in need of work.

Democratic Congressman Ruben Gallego for Arizona's third district with Pima Community College governing board members Maria Garcia and Theresa Riel on Friday, Aug., 2, at the downtown campus' Center of Excellence in Applied Technology in Tucson, Ariz. Congressman Gallego is interested in expanding Arizona's workforce development in careers that do not require a four-year degree.

Congressman Ruben Gallego visits Pima Community College to champion workforce development

The U.S. Senate candidate emphasized the need for adaptable education pathways and legislative support to address workforce challenges.

An unemployment insurance claims office.

AZ unemployment drops, remains at record low

The rate drop counters common seasonal trends.

Border wall fencing with concertina wire attached in Douglas, Ariz. January 2021.

Shadow Wolves may see better career mobility under new bill

Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema introduced new legislation that would both improve border security and the retention of Shadow Wolves agents.

Water availability is one of the most pressing economic issues in the state of Arizona.

The Buzz: Arizona's Economy and Water

We speak with economic experts about Arizona's economy, with attention paid to how water plays a role.

On Friday, May 31, 2024, Senator Mark Kelly gathered with local solar industry leaders at the Solar Gain Inc., facility in Tucson, Ariz., to discuss federal investments into the state for renewable energy. From left to right, Ben Bryce, senior manager of the Environmental Defense Fund Action, Craig Storlie, Tucson solar homeowner, Senator Mark Kelly, Priya Sundareshan, Arizona State Senator, Autumn Johnson, Executive Director of Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association, and Adrian Keller, Arizona program director for Solar United Neighbors of Arizona (SUN).

Arizona advances in renewable energy with federal investments

Senator Mark Kelly and other local leaders talk about the state's clean energy growth and jobs.

Students in the Semiconductor Technician Quick Start training course at Mesa Community College practice while wearing “bunny suits,” the required workwear at fabrication plants.

Phoenix's semiconductor hiring is slow despite federal investment

The government is spending billions to support semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S. But trainees seeking chipmaking jobs may have to wait.

The documentary "The Happiest Country in the World: Finland" explores the reasons why.

Also on Arizona Spotlight: What "Bad Art Night" at the Arizona Science Center offers the creatively curious; "I Dream in Widescreen 2024" showcases a new class of film makers; and "Stories That Soar!" offers a 4th grader's perspective on "Self Love".