Connecting Residents to Local Jobs

Buckeye’s Economic Development Department is not only dedicated to attracting businesses to the community but also focuses on developing a strong and thriving workforce. Recognizing the importance of a well-trained and educated labor pool, Buckeye offers access to training and educational opportunities while facilitating forums for employers to share best practices. The city’s goal is to provide employers and employees with everything they need to succeed in Buckeye.

A significant factor driving Buckeye’s workforce development efforts is the high percentage of residents currently commuting outside the community for employment. Approximately 92% of the resident workforce in Buckeye commute to jobs located outside of Buckeye. This presents a unique opportunity to tap into a pool of skilled workers who have expressed a desire to work closer to home, reducing their commute times and improving their overall quality of life.

Buckeye capitalizes on the concept of the reverse commute, wherein employees travel against the flow of traffic compared to traditional commuters in the Greater Phoenix area. This advantage significantly reduces commuting time for employees, making Buckeye an attractive location for a highly skilled permanent workforce. The reverse commute feature serves as an asset that further enhances the city’s appeal to both businesses and employees to make Buckeye a great place to live, work and play.

To leverage the potential of the reverse commute and foster workforce development, Buckeye organizes job fairs known as “Reduce the Commute Job Fairs.” These events have been remarkably successful in connecting local businesses with skilled workers in the area. The job fairs have witnessed dozens of area businesses hiring qualified employees on the spot, contributing to the growth and vitality of the local economy. The positive outcomes and impact of these job fairs underscore the effectiveness of Buckeye’s workforce development initiatives.

The success of the Reduce the Commute Job Fairs has led to their regular occurrence, with the next event scheduled for October 2023.