Santa Cruz County establishes local training programs for Centro remote mining jobs

In a recent meeting held on March 5, 2025, the City of Nogales, Arizona, officials discussed collaborative efforts to enhance local workforce training and development, particularly in the mining sector. Supervisor Davis emphasized the importance of teamwork among various stakeholders, including the county and the town of Patagonia, to ensure the success of upcoming projects that will benefit the entire region.

A significant focus of the meeting was the introduction of an 18-month training program aimed at preparing local residents for jobs at Centro, a facility that will utilize remote operation technology for mining equipment. This initiative is designed to create job opportunities for individuals in Santa Cruz County, even those without prior experience in the mining industry. The training will be conducted at the Santa Cruz Center in Nogales, with support from Pima Community College, ensuring that local residents can access education and skills development without needing to travel to other areas.

The meeting also highlighted the establishment of a new office in Nogales, located next to the Yuma Bank building, which will serve as a point of contact for community members seeking information about the Centro project and related initiatives. This office aims to foster communication and engagement between the city officials and the public.

City Manager Kramer introduced new staff members who will play key roles in enhancing the city's public relations and outreach efforts, including the management of social media platforms. This move reflects a commitment to improving communication with the community and ensuring that residents are informed about city developments.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting underscored a proactive approach to workforce development and community engagement, setting the stage for future collaboration and growth in Nogales and the surrounding areas. As these initiatives progress, the city anticipates further opportunities for local residents and continued dialogue with stakeholders to address community needs.