Arizona Technology Council Honors Four Southern Arizona Companies for Achievements at 14th Annual Southern Arizona Tech + Business Expo

TUCSON, Ariz., October 22, 2026 — Four Southern Arizona companies were honored for their achievements at the 14th annual Southern Arizona Tech + Business Expo, hosted by the Arizona Technology Council and presented by South32 on October 21. The Expo brought together more than 50 companies and 350 attendees to celebrate business achievements and the continued growth of Southern Arizona’s technology sector.

“This year’s Expo recognized excellence across Southern Arizona through the Tech + Business Expo Awards,” said Paloma Santiago, vice president, Southern Arizona Regional Office of the Arizona Technology Council. “These awards celebrate the companies, entrepreneurs, manufacturers and leaders who are driving innovation, advancing technology and strengthening our region’s economy. The organizations and individuals we recognized at this year’s Expo are making a meaningful impact, not only through their achievements but also through their commitment to progress, collaboration and leadership within our community.”

The Arizona Technology Council honored four Southern Arizona companies for their achievements in transforming industries, developing groundbreaking products and advancing the region’s technology sector.

• The Innovator of the Year Award was presented to HartSCI. The company is pioneering advanced imaging, adaptive optics and optical communications technologies that are shaping the future of space exploration, space domain awareness and remote sensing. Through innovative solutions such as its ClearStar™ LC platform, HartSCI is pushing the boundaries of optical science and delivering technologies that drive discovery, connectivity and operational excellence.
• The Manufacturer of the Year Award was presented to PowerPhotonic. Through its pioneering work in freeform optics and patented laser-ablation technology, PowerPhotonic is helping enable some of the world’s most advanced laser applications. Since establishing operations in Sahuarita, the company has strengthened Southern Arizona’s optics and photonics ecosystem while creating high-quality technical jobs and supporting workforce development across the region.
• The Member Organization of the Year Award was presented to Leonardo Electronics US Inc. At its Tucson operations, Leonardo is driving innovation in advanced laser and electronic systems while making meaningful investments in workforce development, research partnerships and community engagement. From supporting the University of Arizona, Pima JTED and Pima Community College to advancing initiatives in optics, photonics and clean energy, Leonardo continues to strengthen Southern Arizona’s reputation as a global hub for technology and innovation.
• The Startup of the Year Award was awarded to Intelligent Clinical Systems, Inc. Founded by former ICU and emergency department nurse Robert Schmid, Intelligent Clinical Systems is transforming healthcare through its innovative AMBI platform, helping clinicians quickly locate critical supplies so they can devote more time to patient care. Its pioneering use of ambient intelligence is improving efficiency, reliability and outcomes across healthcare and beyond.

The Council also recognized two longtime Arizona Technology Council Ambassadors, Joel Lohr, formerly of Dataforth Corporation, and Shelly Glandon, principal of Blue Canoe Marketing, for 10 years of volunteer service. Council Ambassadors help build a strong technology community by supporting membership growth, fostering engagement and connecting members with the Council’s resources and opportunities.

“The achievements of this year’s award recipients demonstrate the depth of talent, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that make Southern Arizona a thriving technology hub,” Santiago added. “Their success strengthens our regional economy, creates new opportunities and reinforces Southern Arizona’s position as a place where technology companies can innovate, grow and compete on a global stage.”

About the Arizona Technology Council

The Arizona Technology Council is Arizona’s premier trade association for science and technology companies. Recognized as comprising a diverse professional business community, Council members work towards furthering the advancement of technology in Arizona through leadership, education, legislation and social action. The Council offers numerous events, educational forums and business conferences that bring together leaders, managers, employees and visionaries to make an impact on the technology industry. These interactions contribute to the Council’s culture of growing member businesses and transforming technology in Arizona. To become a member or to learn more about the Arizona Technology Council, please visit http://www.aztechcouncil.org.