Uniting schools, business and the community around educational excellence, real world learning and mentorship will inspire innovation, drive growth, and attract investment, the Chamber noted in a news release.

The committee will focus on traditional institutions of higher education and vocational training partners to develop programs tasked with meeting the need of business. Furthermore, advocacy at the local, state and federal level to ensure appropriate funding and resource allocation for education remains a critical concern.

Additional objectives include fostering relationships whereby instruments such as mentorship, principal for a day, mock interviews, adopt a class/school and intern/externships are avenues for the exchange of timely information. The committee will celebrate learning, expand teacher and student horizons, support real work learning and drive programs designed to keep talent in Arizona.

The committee is made up of local leaders in the education sector and members of the business community who have a proven track record of supporting education in the West Valley.

“Furthering strong, established partnerships with the education and business community will fortify the continued growth of a robust economy in the West Valley and throughout Arizona,” Glendale Chamber President and CEO Robert Heidt stated. “A workforce developed and trained to tackle the challenges of an ever changing, increasingly technical environment will almost guarantee high quality employment opportunities, talent retention and warrants Arizona as a top destination in regard to business attraction and retention.”

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, membership-driven organization comprised of nearly 1,400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals.