AGENDA
11-11:15 Check-In & Networking
11:15-11:25 Intro + Welcome
Kimberly Jordan serves as Executive Vice President at WESTMARC, where she is dedicated to advancing the strategic development, growth, and long-term success of the West Valley region. Her passion for workforce and economic development drives her leadership in creating impactful strategies, initiatives, and measurable outcomes.
In her current role, Kimberly oversees the strategic alignment of WESTMARC and the WESTMARC Workforce Foundation, ensuring both arms of the organization work collaboratively to fulfill its mission and vision. She manages annual programming, seven Issue Committees (Public Affairs, Economic Development, Education & Workforce Development, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Marketing, and Quality of Life), and leads human resources functions including onboarding, training development, performance management, and team support. Additionally, she serves as Project Manager for the Greater Maricopa Foreign Trade Zone (GMFTZ #277).
11:25-12:10 Panel 1: Childcare & Early Childhood Education
Reliable, high quality childcare remains one of the most significant barriers to workforce participation for West Valley families. This panel will examine:
- The economic impact of childcare accessibility on labor force participation
- Strategies to expand capacity and strengthen the early childhood education workforce
- Opportunities for employer-supported childcare models and public private partnerships
By addressing affordability, availability, and quality, the region can better support working families and ensure employers have access to a reliable and diverse talent pipeline.
12:10-12:25 Lunch Break
12:25-1:30 Panel 2: Workforce Housing
Housing affordability challenges directly influence recruitment, retention, commute times, and quality of life for workers across all income levels. This discussion will explore:
- The connection between workforce stability and attainable housing
- Cross-jurisdictional approaches to increasing housing supply
- Innovative development and financing models aligned with employer and workforce needs
As housing pressures continue to grow, regionwide coordination will be essential to ensuring the West Valley remains a competitive destination for both talent and employers.
Invest in the Future of the West Valley
*WESTMARC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization (EIN 33-2227137). Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.