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Meet Karla Morales, vice president of the Council’s Southern AZ Regional Office

Meet Karla Morales, the Council’s vice president of our Southern Arizona Regional Office. Karla just celebrated her one-year anniversary with the Council, and is most likely to be seen attending community events in Tucson, volunteering with local Southern Arizona organizations or being a foodie at one of Tucson’s delicious restaurants. In this month’s profile, we’re interviewing Karla to learn more about her work over the past year.

Where are you originally from?

​I was born in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico but have lived in Tucson for 34 years.

Where did you go to school and what did you study?

I started my academic studies at Pima Community College and then transferred over to The University of Arizona. I took a pause due to medical reasons and returned as a non-traditional student at 35. I studied Education with a focus on Learning, Literacy and Leadership and minored in Bilingual Studies. I am in my last semester at The University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management and will receive my Master’s in Business Administration in May 2022.   

How did you start your career?

I started my career at 22 as a case manager for state social services.

How long have you worked for the Council?

One year and one week. 

What are some of your role’s primary responsibilities?

I lead and oversee all operations and facets of the Southern Arizona Regional Office of the Arizona Technology Council. I also work to recruit, retain and support our members in Southern Arizona.

What do you think is one of the Council’s most impressive perks?

It is not easy to select just one or the most impressive. That is the beauty and significant benefit of the AZ Tech Council – we meet such a wide range of our members’ needs. I am a big proponent of education and relationship building. I don’t think there is anyone else statewide that provides the community the opportunity to connect and build genuine and authentic relationships both personally and professionally. We are also fortunate to have an exceptional national and international network that allows us to bring high-quality subject matter expertise to our educational programs.

What do you love most about working for the Council?

Helping people connect and grow.  I also really enjoy learning about and being part of the future and innovation.

What other organizations are you involved with outside of your 9-5?

I currently serve as the Chairwoman for the Tucson Hispanic Chamber, the Executive Board for Earn to Learn, the Pima County Workforce Investment Board and am involved with Santa Cruz County, the Greater Nogales Port Authority and Women At The Top.

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

​I enjoy traveling, wine tasting and spending time with my family.

What are your favorite things to do in Tucson in your down time?

I am a foodie and make going out to eat an experience every time! Tucson received the UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation, and it was due to the fantastic food. 

What is one little-known fact about Karla Morales?

I was a disc jockey at the age of 12 years old providing musical entertainment at festivals, weddings and quinceañeras statewide. I hung up my microphone and headphones only 12 years ago.  

 


Register for the Council’s upcoming Phoenix and Tucson tech events and Optics Valley optics + photonics events.


 

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