August 2024 Member Highlight
Alejandro Figueroa
Director of Economic Development & Intergovernmental Affairs, Yuma County
Where are you originally from?
Yuma. I was raised in Mexico the first few years of my life. My dad was a naturalized citizen. I came to the U.S. for middle school on forward. I am a native of the border region.
How did you come to work in the economic development profession?
While attending ASU, I fell in love with economics. I promised myself I would go back and study something along those lines, so when the housing recession hit in 2008, I returned to get my MBA. Then, when COVID hit, I took the opportunity to leave a job I wasn’t enthusiastic about. I applied for my current position, and five months later, I began working for Yuma County. This was a perfect fit for me, given my experience. I’m from Yuma and passionate about what I do. I’m raising a family here and want to do the best job I possibly can.
Are there any past projects you are particularly proud of?
I’m a one-man show, multitasking all the time. In my role, sometimes, instead of promotion, I play defense by making sure other agencies don’t overstep their boundaries. We are a rural community that borders Mexico and California. It is hard for us to comply with federal regulations on air quality. We have no control over what Mexico does or how the air blows the sand dunes from California.
Also, I’m working with border protection and customs to make sure they have the right support for local agencies. We are expanding on the Port of Entry and want to facilitate trade and tourism. I am drafting letters to congressional members to support staffing the port of entry appropriately.
How long have you been an AAED member?
Ever since I started working here. I’ve always wanted to make sure Yuma County was well represented. When I started, I was the Vice Chair of the Rural committee. I did that for a full year. I am currently on the Governmental Affairs and Rural committees.
What do you enjoy most about being an AAED member?
Meeting my colleagues from other places. Also having the opportunities to learn from other communities.
What most excites you about living and working in Arizona?
I feel good knowing that what I do on a daily basis makes a difference to the people I serve, and the people I serve are related to the kids I went to school with. It’s a small community, and I feel good telling my kids, “I had a small part in that.”
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Spending time with my kid. Traveling to San Diego. Escaping the heat.
What’s your favorite Arizona location for a weekend trip?
Flagstaff. We have spent the last two New Year’s Eve as a family and really enjoyed it.