In November, Arizona’s Leisure and Hospitality sector experienced robust growth, adding 3,000 jobs statewide.
The Leisure and Hospitality industry plays an important role in Yavapai County’s economy, providing jobs and enriching the local culture with diverse offerings. However, recent data provided by the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO), highlights mixed trends in this sector, underscoring both its resilience and its challenges.
In November, Arizona’s Leisure and Hospitality sector experienced robust growth, adding 3,000 jobs statewide. Year over year, the sector grew by 2,400 jobs. Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation increased statewide by 0.9% month over month and 0.7% year over year, while Accommodation and Food Services saw a significant statewide monthly growth of 3.5%, though year-over-year growth remained flat. Unfortunately, the Prescott area diverged from these positive trends. Employment in Accommodation and Food Services declined by 1.9% both month over month and year over year. This drop signals unique challenges for the local market that require targeted attention to reverse the trend and foster growth.
According to the OEO, the average weekly direct wage in the Leisure and Hospitality sector in Yavapai County stands at $596, reflecting the industry’s traditionally lower wage structure. Despite this, the sector provides critical entry-level and seasonal employment opportunities. Growth projections for the Leisure and Hospitality industry in Yavapai County are modest. By the end of 2025, the sector is expected to grow by just 0.6%. However, looking further ahead to 2033, the industry is projected to grow by 1.1%, adding approximately 1,274 jobs. While growth remains slower than in other industries, these numbers indicate long-term potential for development.
Visitors drawn to the area’s natural beauty, historic landmarks and vibrant cultural events rely on local accommodations, dining and recreational activities, all of which are core components of this industry. The revenue generated through tourism not only boosts local businesses but also contributes to the county’s tax base, enabling further investment in infrastructure and community resources. A strong and dynamic Leisure and Hospitality industry is essential to maintaining Yavapai County’s reputation as a premier tourist destination and ensuring the long-term sustainability of its tourism economy.
Internship programs have emerged as a key strategy to address workforce challenges and promote career pathways in the hospitality sector. Local restaurants and hotels in the Quad Cities area have banded together to develop an internship program aimed at educating and inspiring the next generation of hospitality professionals. Spearheaded by Dick Milon, a certified SCORE mentor and previous chapter chair for Northern Arizona and supported by the owners of Farm Provisions restaurant, Founding Fathers, Essence Kitchen & Bar, Vivili Hospitality, SpringHill Suites, Torme and El Gato Azul, the Prescott Area Hospitality Collective is a collaborative effort to promote hospitality opportunities in the Quad Cities area as it continues to grow. NACOG-EWD, Yavapai College and Northern Arizona University (NAU) also are key partners in this initiative.
Students from NAU’s hospitality program and Yavapai College are encouraged to apply for internships, which will commence in late May following the conclusion of the spring semester. These internships are designed to provide hands-on experience, foster professional growth and create a pipeline of talent to support the industry’s future needs.
The Leisure and Hospitality industry in Yavapai County holds significant potential, with some new establishments either entering or expanding in the area. To harness this potential, stakeholders are focused on enhancing training programs, career pathways to attract and retain skilled workers, and marketing initiatives that highlight Yavapai County’s unique cultural and natural attractions. Collaboration between local government, businesses and educational institutions can also create innovative solutions to address industry demand. By integrating internship opportunities and leveraging programs like the Prescott Area Hospitality Collective, Yavapai County can address immediate challenges while building a sustainable and thriving future for its Leisure and Hospitality sector. QCBN
By Teri Drew
Teri Drew is the regional director of NACOG-EWD. For more information about job opportunities and resources available through ARIZONA@WORK – NACOG, call 928-778-1422 or visit us at 221 N Marina St. Ste. 201 Prescott, AZ 86301.
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