The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is proud to announce that Leah Palmer, Executive Director of the Arizona Advanced Manufacturing Institute (AzAMI) at MCCCD, has been named the 2024 Champion of the Year by the Arizona Manufacturers Council and the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The awards recognize companies and individuals who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and leadership in advancing Arizona's manufacturing industry.
“What a wonderful honor to have been selected as the 2024 Champion of the Year by the Arizona Manufacturers Council and the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry. This recognition is to be shared with so many others who support, inspire and make an impact as we experience these unprecedented times in advanced manufacturing,” said Palmer. “This is a special tribute that honors a valued mentor to many at Maricopa, Darcy Renfro, who was our champion for manufacturing and I share this award with her.”
As executive director, Palmer has played a pivotal role in developing strategic workforce implementation plans that address Arizona's growing economic and workforce development needs. Her approach has helped bridge the gap between talent supply and industry demands by offering competency-based training programs in areas such as advanced manufacturing, automation, robotics, electronics, 3D printing, and machining, among others. With expertise in strategic planning, program design, and grants management, Palmer has helped create systems supported by collaborative teamwork that align education resources with industry needs. Throughout her career, she has held leadership roles focused on workforce training, community partnerships, and grant administration.
“Leah’s dedication and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the future of Arizona’s workforce,” said Daniel Barajas, Chief Officer for Workforce & Economic Development at MCCCD. “Her ability to connect industry needs with innovative, competency-based training programs has made a lasting impact on both our students and the manufacturing community. This award is a testament to her tireless work and passion for creating pathways to success.”
Under Palmer’s leadership, AzAMI has helped create customized solutions and cutting-edge programs for employers to recruit or reskill their workforce. The programs help students enhance their skills through apprenticeship programs including electronics, drafting, automation and machining, and welding, and a range of stackable educational programs, including three industry-focused boot camps.
Palmer was honored as the Champion of the Year during the 2024 Manufacturer of the Year Awards Luncheon on October 9.