Incredible things are happening in the Town of Marana, and learning about them has got to be something you experience in person and hear firsthand. I was very fortunate to be a part of the inaugural Impact Marana Class and cannot say enough about its positive impact. Being a Marana resident, raising my family in our community, and feeling connected through my firm's project work throughout the Town, I was still blown away by how much I learned every session. Getting behind-the-scenes access wasn't just informative; it was presented insightfully and thoughtfully, allowing it to resonate and be memorable. You could feel each presenter's level of care and excitement about their jobs and their role as a community member. Each session made me feel proud and grateful to be a part of this amazing, thriving community.

In addition to the insight gained from the experience, you develop deep and meaningful connections with your classmates through shared experiences and learning. Classmates provide different perspectives, points of view, and ideas. The collaboration and exchange of ideas with classmates has extended beyond Impact Marana and into our every day lives. We forged lasting relationships that make me look forward to the next time I get to see them.

Overall, this experience has broadened my knowledge, elevated my perspective, and allowed me to meet some extraordinary individuals. I am forever grateful to Amanda and the Chamber for this experience and my firm's support of my participation. I wholeheartedly believe that if you've been on the fence about your decision to submit your application to participate in Impact Marana, don't be. You won't regret it.

Vanessa Martinez is a Regional Pursuits Manager for Psomas, a civil engineering and land surveying firm. In 2026, Psomas will celebrate 40 years of service in Southern Arizona and is proud to serve the Town of Marana and clients doing business throughout the Town on their critical infrastructure needs.