Phoenix is scheduled to open Innovation 27, a center for the future of the city’s workforce and business economy. The program is slated to start in 2027 and will be a focal point for residents to connect with employers and their community, build resume skills, and launch a small business of their own.
Ann O’Brien joined “Arizona Horizon” to discuss what the project will bring.
Innovation 27 is being developed at the former Kmart site near Interstate 17 and Northern Avenue. According to O’Brien, the project grew out of a community effort led by local leaders and city officials who wanted to transform the vacant property into a workforce development and business hub that prepares residents for high-demand careers.
“It’s a place where folks can go, high school kids can go and take classes and get help with resume development,” O’Brien said. “Adults who need retraining for future careers” will also have access to the center’s programs.
The city plans to partner with Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, the Maricopa County Community College District and West-MEC to provide education and workforce training opportunities.
O’Brien said the first phase of training will focus on Arizona’s growing semiconductor industry, taking advantage of the site’s proximity to the nearby Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company campus. Future phases are expected to add construction, HVAC, electrical and veterinary science training.
Beyond technical education, Innovation 27 will offer career services including resume assistance, interview preparation, job fairs and career navigation. O’Brien said digital literacy courses will also be available for adults looking to improve their technology skills.
“We are working on making it as low cost or potentially free for folks,” O’Brien said. She added that future plans include on-site child care to remove barriers for adults seeking additional education and job training.
Construction on the facility is already underway. O’Brien said the first phase is expected to be completed in the spring of 2027, with the center opening to the public in the fall. City leaders hope Innovation 27 will strengthen Phoenix’s workforce while attracting additional employers by ensuring businesses have access to a skilled pipeline of local talent.
