FLAGSTAFF, AZ – The Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise (Navajo Gaming) has honored 94 of its total 1,200 team members for reaching significant employment milestones including 15, 10 and 5 years of service for the enterprise. The event at Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort in Flagstaff, AZ, showcased the impact and journey of each team member, with a special highlight for 14 employees that have served for 15 years.
Less than 20 years after Navajo Gaming was created by the Navajo Nation and charged with the mission of creating jobs, increasing revenues, and stimulating incremental economic development within the Navajo Nation, the gaming enterprise created over 8,272 direct, indirect and induced jobs with an overall economic output of nearly $2 billion.
“Navajo Gaming employs 1,200 people, 85 percent of whom are Navajo citizens and 90 percent that are Native American,” said John James, CEO of Navajo Gaming. “No other tribal entity that is in gaming and business has that high of a percentage. Our properties are a vital part of the community and provide high-quality jobs, stability and hope for 1,200 families on the reservation and across New Mexico and Northern Arizona, while our invitation to stay, play and relax at one of our four properties or travel center is open to all travelers and guests.”
Additional economic and cultural impacts of Navajo Gaming include the incorporation of “Navajo Beef” and traditional Navajo cuisine at each property’s dining venues. Navajo contractors played a key role in constructing the largely rural casinos and extending essential infrastructure, such as utilities and water lines. Gift shops are stocked with goods supplied by Navajo artisans, supporting local craftsmanship. Navajo Gaming also participates in a government-wide initiative to promote education as a pathway to economic development on the reservation, including tuition reimbursement programs. Additionally, Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort is home to the world’s largest collection of Navajo art.
Team members recognized for 15 years of services have worked their way up to a wide variety of positions within Navajo Gaming’s accounting, marketing, maintenance, and culinary teams.
“We have Navajo team members at all levels of our enterprise including executives and board members, not just hourly positions,” said James. “Additionally, due to our geographic size, we have team members that drive anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours to work each day because we focus on their well-being, offer high quality jobs at market-rate pay, and incredible benefits for every role at every level, whether you’re a cleaner or director.”
