TechTalk eNews: May 2024

• Addressing workforce needs: PVCC debuts Business Institute for community advancement
• Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport passenger numbers break another record
• Aurora’s autonomous trucks can reduce emissions and fight climate change
• Kiterocket helped enhance collaboration through cultural training
• South32 selected Nogales as location of remote operations center
• Intel and TSMC named 2 of the top 3 highest funded US tech projects
• Insight Enterprises acquired Charlotte IT consulting firm
• Axon to acquire drone startup, reports strong year-over-year revenue growth
• SRP, Microsoft, Greater Phoenix Economic Council, Contexture, Greater Phoenix Chamber, and Avnet have employees honored as Top 40 Under 40 in the Phoenix Business Journal
• LAVIDGE scores numerous awards in the 2024 Phoenix Ad Club ADDYs
• American Airlines adds flights, expects record-setting summer at Sky Harbor airport
• Involta’s 3rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament Raises over $55K for Parent Aid
• ASU makes advancement that involves encasing silicon chips in a protective layer to enhance their functionality and longevity
• Cruise LLC has announced their automated vehicles had begun supervised autonomous driving in Phoenix
• Lavidge announced May 13 it would be restructuring its leadership to create two co-presidents to run the firm, along side CEO Bill Lavidge
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport starts process to build new terminal, set to open in late 2030s
• LegacyEV garners Hollywood attention, moves to larger HQ in Gilbert
• Air2o exceeds $50M in orders for it’s ELH units serving lithium-ion battery manufacturing facilities in North America
• Key leader named for Intel’s foundry business
• Wafer production underway at TSMC’s Phoenix factory; Q1 earnings beat expectations
• City of Phoenix teams with SRP to remove trees close to power lines, plant more
• South32 announced US$20 Million Department of Defense grant to help support domestic battery-grade manganese production
• LAVIDGE Wins 2 AMA Phoenix 2024 Spectrum Awards
• DAS Technology expands decade-long collaboration with General Motors to enable advanced consumer engagement technology
• Coinbase announced the Tech Against Scams Coalition
• SRP plans new power infrastructure to keep up with growth in Laveen

Read the full update >>

Tucson after5 Tech Mixer: Hosted by 3-Pillars Performance Group

Do you want to take your company to the next level? 3-Pillars Performance Group focuses on the 3 pillars of success: leadership, culture and strategy to help their clients grow and flourish.

At the after5, you’ll learn how they achieve success for their clients and take an assessment to learn valuable insights about your company’s performance and how you can prepare to achieve your goals. 3-Pillars Performance Group specializes in a spectrum of services, spanning from meticulous assessments to the seamless implementation of strategic business plans, all aimed at equipping organizations with the tools necessary to excel and achieve optimal performance. Register >>

Coinbase Town Hall: The Future of Web3 Innovation in Arizona

Join us for an insightful and dynamic evening for an Advocate Town Hall in Phoenix, AZ! In the heart of the city known for its innovation and forward-thinking spirit, we are excited to bring together pioneers, policymakers, and enthusiasts to explore the limitless possibilities of the decentralized web and its impact here in Arizona. Light refreshments will be provided. Register >>

June after5 Tech Mixer: Hosted by University of Advancing Technology

Kick off your summer at our June after5 Tech Mixer, hosted by the Arizona Technology Council and University of Advancing Technology on Tuesday, June 18 in Tempe, where you can mingle with fellow tech enthusiasts, enjoy delicious food, and sip on refreshing beer and wine. Don’t miss out on this fantastic networking opportunity, register today! Register >>

Southern Arizona Women in the Workforce: 10 Lessons Learned

Don’t think of wisdom as something you get via epiphany or even a couple of years of graduate school. No, it’s something you accumulate day by day—action by action throughout a lifetime. Lessons from some of the world’s leading executives, celebrities, academics, leaders, and ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

Join Diana White, one of the co-hosts of the podcast, 10 Lessons Learned, as she recounts her introduction to the show as a guest, how she became part of the team, and some of the best lessons from show episodes. Register >>

Virtual Tech Speaker Series: Empowering Women in Cybersecurity: Championing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Join the Arizona Technology Council on Tuesday, June 25, for a panel discussion, where we will explore the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the cybersecurity industry. We will discuss the challenges organizations face in recruiting and retaining underrepresented groups, particularly women, and the impact of unconscious bias and lack of support on career advancement. We will also delve into the role of allies in championing for diversity initiatives and the need for industry professionals to inspire and educate the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of workplace initiatives in DEI and the steps needed to ensure a more inclusive and diverse cybersecurity workforce. Register >>

My View: Arizona a gateway to space as more manufacturers enter our orbit

Would you be surprised if I told you Arizona is first in the United States for space vehicle and guided missile manufacturing and second for employment in those areas?

And would you believe “there is no greater or more impactful concentration of space science and engineering professionals in the world than in the state of Arizona. Between the state’s universities, the support we get from companies and institutions across the states, it’s spectacular.”?

If you thought these are my exaggerations, think again. The source of the factoids is Gov. Katie Hobbs while the quote is from Jim Bell, director of Arizona State University’s NewSpace Initiative. Read more >>

Arizona Posts Strong Final Quarter of 2023 in Council’s Technology Industry Impact Report

The Arizona Technology Council has released its Q4 2023 Arizona Technology Industry Impact Report, which finds that Arizona still leads the Southwest states in technology job growth despite a down year in STEM job postings overall. In addition, industry earnings across Arizona reached $30.65 billion, a 12-month earnings increase of 9.8%.

“The technology industry certainly had a bit of a downturn in 2023, but Arizona remains a standout among our peers as having a technology ecosystem where opportunities remain high,” said Steven G. Zylstra, president and CEO of the Council and SciTech Institute. “We’re also encouraged by the start of 2024, with significant investments from Intel and TSMC driving new business our way and a vibrant startup ecosystem accelerating innovation across sectors.” Read more >>

Charting A Path to Clean, Reliable, Affordable Energy Future

Transitioning to clean energy in Arizona isn’t just about reducing greenhouse gas pollution – it’s about securing a brighter future for all. With most pollution stemming from electricity generation, the clear solution is moving away from fossil fuels. Every commitment to renewable energy paves the way for cleaner air, healthier communities, and economic growth – because every ton of emissions reduced today sets in motion a cascade of positive impacts, echoing through generations. Read more >>

The Council’s Political Action Committee advocates for tech companies at the local, state and federal level, vets political candidates and endorses those with track records in supporting pro-tech legislation. Support the PAC to take a stand for technology and bolstering Arizona’s economic recovery.

Arizona Technology Council Appoints Diana White as its New Chief of Staff

The Arizona Technology Council today announced the appointment of Diana White as its new chief of staff.

In this role, White is responsible for partnering with the Council’s president and CEO to represent the association with its board of directors and external constituency groups. She will also serve on the executive team to provide resources and strategy, as well as overall support and management for the Council.

“It is an honor to welcome an individual with the level of expertise in technology and beyond that Diana brings as our new chief of staff,” said Steven G. Zylstra, president and CEO of the Council and SciTech Institute. Read More >>

2nd Annual E-Mobility and Clean Energy Summit

Please join the Arizona Technology Council for its second annual E-Mobility and Clean Energy Summit on Thursday, June 27, 2024.

The e-mobility and clean energy ecosystem in our state is growing exponentially. Arizona is positioned to become a tech leader in this fast-developing sector. We will address the industry’s future at our 2nd annual summit. Come join the conversation and enjoy this great opportunity to hear from companies and partners that are committed to creating a sustainable energy future and better future for our state. Register >>

Arizona Posts Strong Final Quarter of 2023 in Council’s Technology Industry Impact Report

The Arizona Technology Council has released its Q4 2023 Arizona Technology Industry Impact Report, which finds that Arizona still leads the Southwest states in technology job growth despite a down year in STEM job postings overall. In addition, industry earnings across Arizona reached $30.65 billion, a 12-month earnings increase of 9.8%.

“The technology industry certainly had a bit of a downturn in 2023, but Arizona remains a standout among our peers as having a technology ecosystem where opportunities remain high,” said Steven G. Zylstra, president and CEO of the Council and SciTech Institute. “We’re also encouraged by the start of 2024, with significant investments from Intel and TSMC driving new business our way and a vibrant startup ecosystem accelerating innovation across sectors.” Learn More >>

Here are the Arizona technology industry game-changers to watch

The technology industry in Arizona is energized and growing! Every year — more accurately, every month — we are hearing about and seeing major activity from big investments to new startups and everything in between. Arizona has also become a hub for several key technology sectors such as semiconductor and advanced manufacturing. The state also continues to build on its legacy industries such as aerospace and defense.

As we look ahead, the technology sector is also paying close attention to industry happenings that will set the pace for the next decade and beyond. Specifically, in this article I’d like to cover some game-changing sectors and activities happening across the Valley that will have a major impact on Arizona and the nation. Read More >>

The Council can be your one-stop shop for comprehensive healthcare and retirement benefits.

From our comprehensive health insurance product bundle managed by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and DiMartino & Associates to the flexible and low-maintenance 401(k) Multiple Employer Plan offered by Empower and Legacy Wealth Management, the Council can be your one-stop shop for comprehensive employee benefits. Learn more about the Council’s Association Health Plan HERE and our 401(k) Multiple Employer Plan HERE.

• Aurora’s autonomous trucks can reduce emissions and fight climate change
• Arizona has one of nation’s most reliable electrical grids
• Solar power on Tribal Lands brings electrification for the first time — and possibly a new industry
• Arizona senators invest in solar energy for tribes
• US, Canadian banks back construction financing for huge Pinal County solar project
• Arizona receives $12.5M for 3 water infrastructure projects
• 47 quieter and cleaner electric school buses hit Phoenix streets
• ASU and SRP: forest thinning may provide water benefits downstream
• Federally funded center relies on UArizona expertise to manage extreme heat

Read the full report >>

CLICK HERE to learn more about benefits and opportunities available through the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

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