By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – More than 4,000 Pima Community College students celebrated commencement at the Tucson Convention Center on Wednesday, May 20, thanking professors and family members as they officially turned their tassels and stepped into the next phase, finding a job in an uncertain market.
Read more Police seek additional homicide charge after newborn of Buckeye mother shot dies
“They truly shaped us, and they truly got us through this entire program,” said graduate Gabriela Escobar.
For some, the transition from graduation to employment is already underway.
“I just got a job offer at Banner Main, and I’m so excited about it!” Escobar said.
Degrees awarded at the ceremonies ranged from cybersecurity to liberal arts and included students recognized for their academic work and personal journeys. Commencement speaker Alex Guzman said the moment still felt surreal.
“I don’t know what the feeling is, I just can’t believe it. It’s a little unbelievable,” Guzman said.
His message to fellow graduates: it’s never too late to change direction.
“It’s never too late to reinvent yourself. You can always start over,” he said.
Still, many new graduates are entering a workforce being reshaped by technology — including concerns about how artificial intelligence could affect entry-level roles. Rich Nickel, president and CEO of Education Forward Arizona, said employers are still looking to hire.
“Entry-level jobs seem to be more abundant,” Nickel said. “Companies are planning on hiring this year.”
He added that what helps candidates stand out isn’t always technical expertise alone.
Read more Man arrested after alleged break-in at Maricopa County medical examiner’s office
“Some of those softer skills — problem solving, critical thinking, being able to collaborate with others to come to good solutions as a team,” Nickel said.
Nickel said professional services, engineering, and finance remain among the top industries hiring new workers, but pointed to one area with especially strong demand in Arizona.
“Healthcare is still seeing big shortages in the state, and it’s still booming across the state,” he said. “Probably the No. 1 opportunity in the state for folks.”
Education Forward Arizona said it is working directly with employers to better understand what workplaces need now, and how schools can prepare graduates for a job market evolving alongside new technology.
Are you streaming 13 News?
Watch a free live stream of Tucson Now and 13 News at TucsonNow.Live.
Be sure to download the free Tucson Now app, which you can find on Apple and Google.
If you are using a desktop computer, you can use your mobile device to scan the QR code below.
Read more 5 displaced after large fire engulfs Maryvale home
You can submit your breaking news or weather images here.