Cochise Newsroom

Cochise College continues to meet with local leaders and businesses through its Community Connections initiative, which aims to support workforce development and expand access to higher education in southeastern Arizona.  

 

A recent Cochise in the Community event in Willcox brought together representatives from the college and the local business community, including leaders from Western Bank. Conversations focused on ways to strengthen partnerships and create programs that meet regional workforce needs.  

 

“It was great to have some two-on-two time with you and Toby,” said Ellen Kauffman, Senior Vice President and Branch Manager for Western Bank. “It’s great to see the college planning ahead and inviting the community to explore educational possibilities together.” 

 

Attendees discussed collaborative opportunities, including small business support programs, financial literacy classes, customer service and soft skills workshops, and expanded early college opportunities for high school students. 

 

“Cochise in the Community is part of the college’s ongoing effort to build stronger relationships across the county, ensuring each location is represented in initiatives and programming," added Cullen Scarborough, Dean for Workforce Development. “We welcome community members, business owners and anyone interested in workforce development to join the conversation.”  

 

The next Cochise in the Community in Willcox is planned for January. College representatives aim to work closely with the City of Willcox and local partners to encourage even broader participation. 

 

Community members or business owners interested in participating, please get in touch with Cullen Scarborough, our Dean of Workforce Development, at (520) 515-3631 for more information.   

 

Pictured from the left are Aiya Hart, vice president of marketing and digital banking for Western Bank; Ellen Kauffman, vice president and branch manager for Western Bank; and Toby Scott, director of workforce development at Cochise College.