Tech Expo highlights emerging industries
The Arizona Technology Council hosted its 12th annual Tech and Business Expo Oct. 16 to highlight tech industries including transportation, automation, optics, biotech, mining, aerospace, defense, logistics, robotics, space exploration, IT, and more.
The event started with a discussion on “Arizona’s Mineral Wealth: Navigating the Future of Mining and Innovation” that was moderated by Pima County Economic Development Director Heath Vescovi-Chiordi. The panel featured Lea Marquez, a member of the Arizona Corporation Commission; Pat Risner, President of South32 Hermosa Project; and Carlos Contreras, CEO of the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity. They discussed the importance of critical minerals for a green energy future and how South32 is building its workforce that will be largely hired from people in Southern Arizona.
Discussions followed highlighting southern Arizona’s rich tech and startup clusters and expertise across multiple industries, and awards to recognize excellence in Southern Arizona. There was also an exhibitor expo with more than 65 statewide companies, a manufacturing pavilion, and an after 5 Tech Mixer reception.