Sessions of 2026 Connection Conference: Robert Garcia

Garcia, Robert

DAS - Executive Director, Workforce Development
Arizona Department Of Education

Robert Garcia is a fourth-generation Arizona native from South Phoenix and a resident of Goodyear for more than two decades. His academic background includes extensive military education and professional development, complemented by a bachelor’s degree in business management, an undergraduate diploma in project management, and a graduate diploma in public policy management. Robert is a former Marine Gunnery Sergeant whose 22-year career in the United States Marine Corps, included multiple domestic and international deployments. His service took him to over 26 countries to include service in the pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans. Throughout his career, Robert held numerous leadership and operational roles. Robert’s civilian career includes roles with the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station, the City of Phoenix, Amazon Corporation, and the State of Arizona (ACA, OEO and ADE). Robert’s experience includes owning and operating multiple businesses throughout Maricopa and Yavapai Counties. He has served the community, accepting appointments by the Governor of Arizona to the Arizona Civil Rights Advisory Board, and the pre 9/11 MERF Board. Robert has also contributed his time to numerous organizations, including the Marine Scholarship Foundation, Tun Tavern Business Group, Honoring America’s Heroes Foundation, the Arizona Veterans Leadership Council, Maricopa County Workforce Development Board Youth Committee, the Arizona House Veterans Caucus, The United Service Organization (USO) and the Goodyear Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT). Robert currently serves as the Arizona Department of Education’s Deputy Associate Superintendent and Executive Director of Workforce Development and Governing Board Member at West-Mec.