Event Agenda:

12:30 PM | Registration/Networking/Visit Exhibitors

1:00 PM | Opening Remarks

1:10 PM | Opening Keynote | Mayor John Giles, City of Mesa

1:20 PM | Panel Discussion | Zero Emission Infrastructure in Arizona

Zero emission vehicles, such as electric and hydrogen powered vehicles, are becoming increasingly popular as a sustainable means of transportation. In order for these vehicles to be viable options for consumers, the necessary infrastructure must be in place. This includes charging stations for electric vehicles and hydrogen refueling stations for hydrogen powered vehicles. Our panel will delve into the current state of Arizona in terms of infrastructure for zero emission vehicles. We will hear from representatives from local utilities and government agencies to understand the progress being made in building out this infrastructure. Additionally, we will hear from companies that are actively involved in the development and implementation of these necessary facilities. By discussing the challenges and opportunities in creating a robust infrastructure for zero emission vehicles in Arizona, our panel aims to provide valuable insights into the future of sustainable transportation in the state.

• Alexia Bednarz, Head of Sustainability, Nikola Corporation
• Julie Cruz, Transportation Policy Advisor, Arizona Governor’s Office of Resiliency
• Jon Frey, Head of Product Area New Business – North America, Bosch Rexroth Corporation
• Nicolas Quinones, EV Strategy Program Manager, SRP
• Moderator: Tom Schumann, Executive Director, Center For Entrepreneurial Innovation

2:00 PM | Spotlight Presentation | Keeping Pace with Emerging Technology in Fire and Emergency Services – Lithium-Ion Batteries

The Phoenix Fire Department and their regional partners have worked hard to keep pace with the emergence of lithium-ion batteries in our community. This work includes the development of emergency response procedures, fire investigation practices, fire code development, and public education. From an investigation’s perspective, quality data collection drives improved awareness and preparation activities for public safety messaging, firefighter safety, training, and code development. This brief presentation is intended to share what is being done to manage lithium-ion battery fires in the Phoenix area.

• Tim Kreis, Assistant Fire Chief, Operations Division, City of Phoenix

2:20 PM | Panel Discussion | Innovating CleanTech in Arizona

Arizona’s CleanTech sector is rapidly evolving as startups lead the charge in developing innovative technologies for a sustainable future. This panel focuses on the unique challenges and breakthroughs in the CleanTech space, from renewable energy solutions to advanced environmental technologies. Hear from pioneering entrepreneurs and technologists who are making significant strides in Arizona’s CleanTech landscape, discussing strategies for growth, collaboration, and navigating the market dynamics unique to this burgeoning field. Our distinguished panelists will share insights into the challenges they’ve overcome and the breakthrough technologies they are pioneering.

• Max Bregman, Chief Executive Officer, BreatheEV
• Jay Foster, Co-Founder, Carbon Utility, LLC
• Jordan Fourcher, CEO, CryoX Co
  
• Kris Saunders, Founder, extend EV
• Moderator: Mavrick Knoles, Co-Founder and President, LegacyEV

3:00 PM | Afternoon Break/Visit Exhibitors

3:15 PM | Panel Discussion | Battery Materials in Arizona: From Raw to Recycled

The growing battery manufacturing industry in Arizona is indeed bringing jobs and new companies to the state. This industry requires a supply chain of raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are essential components in battery production. Additionally, there is a need for a means to handle the batteries once they reach the end of their life cycle, as proper recycling and disposal are crucial for environmental sustainability. Our panel will delve into the current state of the supply and recycling chains for Arizona’s burgeoning battery industry, discussing challenges, opportunities, and potential solutions in this evolving sector.

• Gil Michel-Garcia, Co-founder Executive Vice-President & General Counsel, EVelution Energy
• Tom Schaefer, Vice President of Lithium Business Development, Ecobat North America
  
• Edwin Hernández Vargas, Manager of State and Local Affairs, KORE Power
• Trevor Warren, Founder and CEO, Higher Wire Inc.
• Moderator: Eric Miller, Principal & Co-Owner, PADT, Inc.

3:55 PM | Panel Discussion | Startup Innovators: New Advancements and Commercialization in Cleantech

Arizona-based founders developing technologies for the clean energy industry will discuss their entrepreneurial journey including commercializing their technology, obtaining government funding, and tapping into local institutions to equip them with the resources to scale.

• Peter Firth, Founder & CEO, Swift Coat
• Abhishek Kumar, Director of Business Development, Ampcera Inc.
• Manas Pathak, CEO, EarthEn
• Jason Yu, Co-founder & CEO, Beyond Silicon
• Moderator: Dean Simms-Elias, Program Manager, Plug and Play

4:35 PM | Afternoon Keynote | Governor Katie Hobbs

4:45 PM | Closing remarks

4:50 PM | Social Hour/Networking

6:00 PM | Event Ends