Employment growth is strongest in sectors shaped by digital transformation and artificial intelligence. IT roles are expanding due to increased demand for cloud computing, cybersecurity, software development and data analytics. STEM positions are also rising as technical expertise becomes critical for innovation and automation. Sales roles now require proficiency with digital tools and data-driven strategies, while AI continues to transform traditional processes. Additionally, areas such as operations, finance and customer service are creating new opportunities as organizations adopt AI solutions.
Overall, jobs are shifting toward roles that require adaptability, technical skills and the ability to collaborate with AI-driven systems while still emphasizing people skills to build relationships and trust.
The types of jobs we have a hard time filling because of lack of talent varies by business unit or region, but generally include:
- IT: cloud engineers, cybersecurity analysts, software developers and data analysts;
- STEM: engineers and tech developers to help drive automation and innovation;
- Sales & Business Development: sales engineers and field application engineers;
- Operations: maintenance techs — which is a hard skill to locate in Arizona;
- Finance: corporate finance positions, also hard to fill in Arizona; and
- Free-trade zone and trade operations.
At Avnet, we create new roles and develop existing employees while also bringing in external talent. This approach builds a dynamic workforce that combines institutional knowledge with fresh expertise, supporting innovation and agility as we adapt to evolving business needs.
Best Buddies supports this strategy by promoting an inclusive atmosphere that welcomes diverse talents and viewpoints. Partnering with organizations like Best Buddies helps Avnet access a broader pool of candidates, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who bring unique skills, creativity and commitment. This emphasis on diversity aligns with our values and enhances collaboration and innovation, making our teams more adaptable and resilient during ongoing digital and workforce changes.
When Avnet learned about Best Buddies, the world’s largest organization dedicated to supporting individuals with IDD, we recognized the program’s value and wanted to participate. Avnet initiated this partnership by focusing on recruiting neurodiverse employees. Our team met with Best Buddies Jobs Arizona to explore work opportunities for individuals with IDD. This outreach included a job site analysis at our Chandler McKemy distribution center and discussions about potential candidates for roles in electronic component aggregation.
As a result, so far Avnet has hired an employee from the Best Buddies program at our Chandler facility, and this employee has been excelling in the chosen role.
“My life has improved a lot now that I am working here,” shares the employee. “I feel so much more independent — I get myself to and from work on public transportation, so I don’t have to rely on my mom. I enjoy learning from my co-workers and having the chance to learn more.”
Ken Arnold is Avnet’s senior vice president and global chief people officer reporting to Avnet CEO Phil Gallagher. As head of human resources, he is a member of the Executive Leadership Team and responsible for leading Avnet’s HR strategy and global human resources team to attract, develop, engage and reward employees for the enterprise. In addition, Arnold serves as Management’s liaison to the Compensation and Leadership Development Committee of the board of directors for Avnet. Arnold’s impressive career includes more than 25 years of extensive experience across multiple industries in human resources and information technology.
Editor’s Note: This is a companion story to our in-depth examination of the state of job creation and workforce development in Phoenix: “Jobs: Creating and Saving Employment in Arizona.”
