TechTalk eNews: April 2026
- Phantom Space acquires Utah thermal tech firm to speed orbital data center
- Crating Technology Guest Post: How Phoenix Industries Solve Complex Logistics with On-Site Custom Crating
- Phoenix Commits $50M to ASU Health, Expanding Bioscience Core
- Six Arizona entrepreneurs named to Inc.’s Female Founders 500 Including Vivian Valenty from VB Cosmetics
- Five Arizona Utilities Fund Grants for Communities Impacted by Coal Transition
- ASU Breaks Ground on Downtown Phoenix Health Headquarters
- Intel joins Terafab project as chipmaker seeks manufacturing comeback
- Nation’s First K-12 Semiconductor Training Cleanroom Opens in Phoenix
- Comcast Business Guest Blog: Why Using AI to Detect Small Cybersecurity Anomalies Is a Big Deal
- Lucid names new CEO
- FPT Guest Blog: Generative Engine Optimization: Building a GEO-Ready Arizona for 2026
- Crating Technology Guest Post: How Do Reusable Crating Systems Reduce Environmental Impact in the Supply Chain?
- TSMC Reports 35.1% YoY Revenue Growth in First Quarter
- SRP Brings 55 MW Solar Project Online
- Avnet named 2026 CIO 100 Award winner for enterprise AI innovation
- SRP Board of Directors Approves Temporary Summer Rate Decrease
- Honeywell looks to manufacture jet engines for Navy training in Phoenix
- Arizona Science Center taps longtime exec to lead 120-employee museum
- Comcast Business Guest Blog: From Data to Decisions: Unlocking the Power of Smart Technology
- How Tech Brands Should Measure Organic Search Success Today
- City of Avondale Announces Promotion of Jennifer Stein to Assistant City Manager
- Shaping Federal Policy to Power Arizona Innovation: Highlights from the Arizona Technology Council’s 2026 DC Fly-In
- Employee Spotlight – Diana White
NEXT WEEK! Inaugural Arizona Manufacturing Showcase!
Join the Council on Wednesday, May 13 as we officially launch the Arizona Manufacturing Showcase—our newest signature event—hosted in partnership with the Council’s Arizona Manufacturing Catalyst Committee at Grand Canyon University’s Lux Manufacturing space. More than 50 Arizona manufacturers will be on-site to demonstrate the innovation powering our state’s dynamic manufacturing ecosystem. Connect with industry leaders, innovators and educators, enjoy food and refreshments, and take part in an exclusive tour of GCU’s Lux Precision Manufacturing facility, along with interactive breakout presentations and networking opportunities throughout the afternoon.
Sponsorships are now available, and exhibitor space is limited to just 50 vendors—secure your spot today and be part of this exciting new chapter for Arizona manufacturing! REGISTER >>
Cheers to 10 Years of the Annual Smart City + Digital Transformation Conference!
Step Into the Future at the 10th Annual Smart City + Digital Transformation Conference! Join the Council and the Arizona Commerce Authority on Monday, April 27 at the ASU SkySong Innovation Center for an inspiring afternoon focused on the technologies shaping tomorrow’s communities. This milestone 10th annual event brings together forward-thinking leaders and innovators to explore breakthroughs in smart city development, IoT and next-generation communication technologies. Discover how data-driven solutions are transforming urban environments into more connected, efficient and sustainable communities. REGISTER >>
Mix, Mingle + Learn with the Council in May
Bold Voices. Real Stories. Cybersecurity Insights.
Join us May 11 for an inspiring virtual conversation with some of Arizona’s most accomplished female cybersecurity leaders as they share real-world insights, career journeys and bold perspectives shaping the future of the industry. From emerging threats to new opportunities in Arizona’s tech ecosystem, this candid discussion offers practical takeaways, powerful stories and actionable advice you won’t want to miss. REGISTER >>
Tech Meets the Desert Sky
Join us May 19 for the Tucson after5 Tech Mixer at the stunning Tohono Chul Botanical Gardens. In partnership with Optics Valley and the Town of Oro Valley, this evening brings together leaders and innovators from Arizona’s tech and optics communities for meaningful connections, great conversation, and a beautiful desert backdrop. REGISTER >>
Your Next Great Connection Starts Here
Don’t miss our May after5 Tech Mixer on May 27! Join Arizona’s tech community at 10 to 1 Public Relations for an evening of networking, conversation and great refreshments. Connect with fellow tech professionals, expand your network and enjoy great food, beer and wine in a relaxed, high-energy setting. REGISTER >>
13th Annual Cybersecurity Summit: Stay Ahead of Today’s Cyber Threats
Cyber threats are evolving faster than ever, and so should your strategy. Join us the Council and Arizona Cyber Threat Response Alliance May 20 for the 13th Annual Cybersecurity Summit to hear from leading experts, explore emerging risks and gain actionable tools to strengthen your organization’s defenses in today’s rapidly changing landscape. REGISTER >>
4th Annual E-Mobility + Clean Energy: Powering Arizona’s Energy Future ⚡
Join us June 18 for the 4th Annual E-Mobility + Clean Energy Summit and be part of the momentum driving Arizona’s rise as a leader in sustainable innovation. Connect with top companies, industry experts and partners shaping the future of e-mobility and clean energy—and gain insights into what’s next for this rapidly evolving sector. REGISTER >>
One Summit. Unlimited Aerospace Innovation.
This year, Arizona’s leading aerospace events, the AADM Conference, Advanced Air Mobility Conference and Arizona Space Summit, have combined into one powerful, all-day experience you won’t want to miss: the inaugural Arizona Aerospace Summit. This dynamic event brings together industry leaders, innovators, investors and global partners to turn ideas into action across aerospace, defense, space and advanced manufacturing.
Set against Arizona’s unique ecosystem of cutting-edge infrastructure and test environments, the Summit serves as a living lab for real-world collaboration, where partnerships form, capital aligns and the future of integrated aerospace takes shape. This is where bold ideas move beyond conversation and into execution.
CALL FOR MODERATORS AND PRESENTERS NOW LIVE! For more details please click HERE and the submission form HERE.
SPONSORSHIPS NOW AVAILABLE! Click HERE for more details.
Registration Open! 2026 Executive Leadership Retreat + Golf Tournament
Step away from the day-to-day and join Arizona’s top tech executives in Prescott for the 19th Annual Executive Leadership Retreat, August 10–11. Hosted by the Council and Arizona Commerce Authority, this two-day experience brings together CEOs, founders and business leaders for high-level networking, fresh insights and strategic conversations focused on growth, leadership and innovation.
Hosted at the historic Hassayampa Inn, the retreat features inspiring speakers, meaningful connections, rooftop networking and an optional golf tournament that’s open to all. Space is limited—register today!
Become a Tech Ambassador — Join Our 2026 Phoenix Committee!
Want to take a more active role in shaping Arizona’s tech future? Consider joining the Council’s Phoenix Ambassador Committee. As part of this dynamic group, you’ll:
✨ Help represent AZTC across the local tech ecosystem
🤝 Connect with industry leaders, policymakers and fellow innovators
📣 Promote events and opportunities that matter to our community
🚀 Stay ahead of emerging trends and help drive growth statewide
We’re looking for motivated, engaged members who want to be in the action — and we’d love to have you on board in 2026. Interested in Joining the Phoenix Ambassador Committee? Learn More >>
My View: Arizona emerges as national leader in smart cities and digital transformation
Arizona isn’t just participating in the future of smart cities, we’re helping define it. In his latest Phoenix Business Journal column, Steve highlights how Arizona is emerging as a national leader in digital transformation, from smart traffic systems in Phoenix to advanced mobility, AI-driven infrastructure and next-gen research across our universities. 👉 Read more >>
In the latest episode of AZ TechCast, Katie Schwertz (Edmund Optics), Dr. Robert Norwood (University of Arizona) and Michael Hart (HartSCI LLC) break down the basics of optics and photonics in a way anyone can understand, while also diving into cutting-edge advancements like free-space laser communications, photonic integrated circuits and next-generation infrared materials. The conversation highlights why Arizona has emerged as a global hub for optics innovation, and what’s needed to sustain that leadership amid workforce shortages, supply chain challenges and rapid technological change in the AI era. Listen >>
Arizona Technology Council Welcomes New Board Members with Expertise in IT Services and Workforce Solutions
The Council recently announced it has appointed Neil Calfee, executive director of Economic Development + Innovation Zones for Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise, and Tom Sullivan, chief operating officer of Air2O, to its board of directors. Both were unanimously elected to three-year terms at the Council’s quarterly board meeting held on April 30. READ MORE
Arizona needs sustainable data centers now more than ever | Opinion
What if Arizona could lead the nation in BOTH AI infrastructure and clean energy?
“Getting this once-in-a-generation opportunity right requires coordination across developers, utilities, policymakers and communities.” A new Arizona Republic from Steve and Ceres’s Kelly Trombley makes the case: sustainable data centers aren’t optional. They’re essential. READ MORE >>
Own a Small Business?
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. Read More >>
The Arizona tech community is vibrant and filled with opportunities to learn and grown. If you’d like to see what our member companies have to offer, check out the Council’s Community Tech Events calendar! New events are added weekly and the calendar is a great spot for member companies to showcase their events – from open houses and ribbon cuttings to webinars and trainings, there’s a ton available.
If you’re an AZTC member company and would like to have your tech event featured, simply complete the event submission form at the bottom of the Community Tech Events page!
The Council’s success is made possible by the support of our incredible annual sponsors! This month, we’re highlighting the SRP. Salt River Project provides reliable, fairly priced electricity and water to more than 2 million people in Central Arizona.
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.
Check out photos from Council events that took place this month!
Local Renewable Energy Siting
Interested in local renewable energy siting in Arizona? Complete this short sign-up form to join the Arizona Local Renewable Energy Siting Info Network listserv and monthly meetings.
Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) Program Launches
Arizona’s Office of Resiliency has officially fully launched the HEAR Program, part of the Inflation Reduction Act’s $8.8 billion investment in Home Energy Rebates. This program offers up to $14,000 in point-of-sale rebates for lower- and moderate-income households to purchase high-efficiency appliances and upgrades, including heat pumps, induction stoves, insulation, ventilation, water heaters and more.
More info: www.efficiencyarizona.com
Check out RMI’s new Electricity Affordability Toolkit that includes over two dozen policies that states can use to advance electricity affordability. Designed primarily to inform legislative action, it includes information relevant to advocates, regulators, administration officials, and more. Learn More >>
2026 PLATINUM SPONSORS
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2026 VISIONARY & CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS
Keap | Pima Community College Tech Parks Arizona | VB Cosmetics