We are the voice of young professionals in Greater Tucson.
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We are leading Tucson’s future, now
We began during the Great Recession, creating a space to come together, find connection, and build a way forward. As our city has changed and grown, so have we as an organization.
Today, Tucson is on the rise. Arizona is one of the fastest-growing states and Tucson is growing. And the fastest-growing population is our demographic. We are leading Tucson now.
Purpose and values
We attract, retain, and promote Tucson’s young professionals and ensure they have a voice for leading positive and inclusive development for our region.
Collaboration
We are stronger when we work together instead of operating in silos or competition.
Leadership
We don’t want to be bystanders to Tucson’s development. We lead today, not tomorrow.
Inclusivity
A more just and productive Tucson is led by diverse voices. Our group proactively reflects that.
Progress
We push Tucson forward on economic and social issues to compete in a rapidly changing world.
But really, we're the present.
Our organization began as a need for connection and comfort amid the Great Recession. Thanks to the many members and partners, we have grown to become the voice and platform for young professionals to thrive here in Greater Tucson.
We have accomplished a lot. And we’re just getting started.
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The history of Tucson Young Professionals
2007
Young Talent Is Needed
Many organizations throughout Greater Tucson saw the importance of developing young talent to invest in the region’s future. Sun Corridor published key research that led to our beginnings. From there, the Southern Arizona Leadership Council (SALC) helped TYP become an independent organization and start a valuable partnership that continues today.
2007-2012
The Social Club
TYP members started gathering during the Great Recession. Many young professionals left for better opportunities and those who stayed wanted – needed – a place to socialize. This was our social club phase, which included fashion shows, first Friday events, and yes, a lot of parties.
2013-2015
Time for Professional Development
We needed to formally offer professional development opportunities and find ways to connect with the business leaders in Greater Tucson. The CEO Roundtable became our first continuous program, where YPers could hear from the leaders of Tucson’s top businesses about their tips for career success. We also were part of the Community Alliance, which helped launch successful initiatives like ignite520, TENWEST, and This is Tucson – and they are still thriving today.
2016-2017
For the Members
We moved to a membership model to bring each person’s voice together to affect positive change collectively. A big member benefit was our mentorship program. Through our partnership with SALC, our mentorship cohorts were great ways to build a strong network and learn what it takes to grow your career. By the end of 2017, we hit 200 members and hired our first staff member.
2018-2023
Growth Phase
It was time to grow – and we did. By a lot. We created the Corporate Growth Member program so businesses can invest in Tucson’s young talent through TYP. CGM members held seats on the newly created Advisory Committee, where their valued input guided our efforts. This coincided with the creation of Committees and Teams and the expansion of our Board of Directors to support growing programming. Through the COVID pandemic, our membership expanded to nearly 800 members and we became an integral part of the Tucson economic ecosystem.
2024-Present
Our Future is Now
Today, we are the largest young professional organization in the state of Arizona, with 1000 members and counting. In addition to our events and mentorship program, we play a crucial role in the talent acquisition and retention efforts here in Greater Tucson and we are a key member in the economic development of this place we call home. And yes, we still host parties from time to time.