TechTalk eNews: February 2026
- The University of Arizona Formalizes Agreement with National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) to Redefine Workforce Development
- Benchmark Electronics beats Wall Street revenue predictions
- Comcast Business Guest Blog: AI, Security, and the Future of Sports: Takeaways from the Comcast Business PLAYERS Executive Forum
- Raytheon completes test of missile that could replace Army’s Stinger
- Cordia expands cooling empire as Phoenix heat demands new infrastructure
- Defense, aerospace companies eye Arizona expansion as state’s project pipeline widens
- BC Automation and Asterion DB has launched a strategic partnership
- Arizona State University Breaks Ground on McCain Library
- Plug and Play: How one matchmaker program is helping Arizona startups level up
- Raytheon to ramp up Tucson production after landing multiyear missile deals
- Comcast Business Guest Post: From Data to Decisions: Unlocking the Power of Smart Technology
- Aurora ready to roll out driverless trucks in Phoenix
- Multi-State Strategic Communications Firm Rebrands, Consolidates Agencies: Kiterocket
- ACA Partners with University of Arizona on Semiconductor Cleanroom Expansion
- TSMC: Why Arizona’s chip making boom may just be starting
- Intero Digital Guest Blog Post: Your Website Is Not a Brochure: Web Development Strategies
If you work in AI, IT or tech leadership, you’ll want to be in THIS ROOM! Join us March 31 and help shape the future of tech in Arizona!
The Arizona Technology Council has its own version of March Madness—and it’s filled with can’t-miss moments. From networking on the fairways to exploring the future of AI, March offers exciting opportunities to connect and learn across the state. Close out the month at our 2nd Annual TechFusion: AI, IT, and Computer Science Conference on Tuesday, March 31 at GCU, where innovation takes center stage. This dynamic event brings together leading voices in artificial intelligence, computer science, and information technology for meaningful conversations and forward-thinking insights. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it!! Register >>
March Means Mixers x2!
Make the most of March with not one, but two opportunities to mix, mingle and make meaningful connections. Join fellow innovators and business leaders first in Phoenix on March 18 for a lively evening hosted by RYTHMz. Plan for a night of networking, celebration and a little friendly competition. Connect with innovators, entrepreneurs and industry leaders while enjoying festive St. Patrick’s Day-inspired bites, premium NEFT Vodka cocktails and refreshing wine seltzers in a vibrant atmosphere. And yes — there’s more. Thanks to Mighty Axe (located downstairs!), every guest receives a 30-minute axe-throwing wristband to help break the ice and spark new connections. REGISTER >>
Start the TENWEST Festival with connection and momentum at the TENWEST Mega Mixer on Tuesday, March 24 at HighWire Tucson. Whether you’re attending TENWEST or part of the AZTC community, this is your chance to expand your network and build collaborations that last well beyond the festival. Hosted by Startup Tucson and fueled by HUSTL, the Mega Mixer is open to TENWEST pass holders, Council members and Tribal Nation invitees. Food and drinks will be available for purchase—just bring your energy and your business cards! 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 >>
Introducing the 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 >>
Tech Inclusion Forum
Join the Council’s Tech Inclusion Forum Committee virtually on April 4 for a candid and inspiring conversation with industry executives as they share the pivotal moments, challenges and mentors that shaped their leadership journeys. Through honest reflections and practical insights, you’ll gain actionable guidance to help define your own path—whether you’re just starting out or stepping into your next leadership role. Come ready to learn, connect and be inspired by leaders who have navigated the climb and are eager to share what it takes to rise.
Aerospace, Aviation, Space and Defense (AASD) Committee
- Feb. 24 — AASD held its first meeting of 2026 at Pima Community College’s (PCC) downtown Tucson campus with
presentations on PCC’s new facilities and training initiatives, Paragon Space Development Corporation’s industry-education connections, a scaling student-run organization named the Space Professional Society, and a tour of PCC’s new advanced manufacturing facilities.
- Feb. 11 — AASD members participated in AZ’s Aerospace Day at the Capitol which included NASA Space Grant intern presentations on AZ’s aerospace industry competitiveness engagements with the legislature to advocate for aerospace initiatives, and a keynote from Col. Alford, Commander of Space Forces Southern at Davis–Monthan AFB.
- Feb. 11 — AASD members attended the AZ Space Commission’s February meeting with briefings from Dr. Greg Autry (UCF), Kelli Kedis Ogborn (Coesyne), Bill Woolf (SFA), and Paul Binsfeld (Honorary Consul of Luxembourg).
- Learn more about AASD >>
eMobility and Energy Ecosystem (AEEE) Committee
The Council’s eMobility and Energy Ecosystem (AEEE) Committee recently gathered at Obodo Energy Partners in Tempe for a dynamic discussion on the rapidly evolving solar landscape. From expiring incentives and tariffs to battery storage, energy efficiency and the role of utilities and the Arizona Corporation Commission, the conversation delivered timely insights on financing, scaling and deploying clean energy solutions.
Attendees left energized by real-world case studies—including the impressive Willcox Greenhouse project—and the collaborative exchange among developers, financiers, policymakers and innovators. Arizona’s energy ecosystem continues to gain momentum as we work together to power the future. Learn more about the AEEE Committee >>
Our 2026 Phoenix Executive Leadership Network (formerly CEO Network) kicked off this month and this year’s members are already sharing great feedback:
“The AZTC CEO/Executive Leadership group has truly leveraged shared expertise and diverse perspectives to strengthen our company’s culture. Our group has supported each other through challenging times, offered creative business suggestions and provided outstanding referral opportunities. I am grateful for the impact this collaboration has had on me personally, and my companies.”
Debbie Kovesdy, CEO, GenTech Support
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 >>
Arizona targets fusion energy market as Trump administration makes it top priority
Steve partnered with Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, senior vice-president for research and partnerships at the University of Arizona, also is a member of the Arizona Technology Council board of directors, on an op-ed about the power and potential of fusion. 👉 Read more >>
Arizona’s economic momentum depends on smart energy policy. Electricity demand in Arizona is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, with no indication it will slow. Projections show statewide electricity demand could increase by as much as 40% in the next five years. That growth is being driven by population gains, advanced manufacturing, data centers, semiconductors, aerospace and an expanding innovation economy. Read Steve’s Op-Ed >>
From the CEO: Innovation Hits the Open Road
In his latest op-ed, Steve shares a personal reflection on his love of the open road—and why Arizona’s role in launching a 1,000-mile autonomous trucking corridor between Phoenix and Fort Worth represents more than a technological milestone. It’s a powerful example of how our state continues to lead in advanced mobility, innovation and the future of transportation. Read Steve’s Op-Ed >>
Why Communities Thrive When Inclusion Is Not Optional
As Black History Month 2026 concludes, our president and CEO reflects on the enduring values of dignity, fairness and opportunity—and why inclusion is essential to thriving communities and economies. In his latest op-ed, he shares a powerful reminder: inclusion is not ideology, it is infrastructure. It strengthens trust, fuels innovation, attracts talent and builds long-term resilience. Read his full commentary and join us in reaffirming that Arizona’s continued growth depends on ensuring everyone has the opportunity to belong and contribute. 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 >>
Arizona Tech Week is a decentralized tech conference powered by the Arizona
Commerce Authority (ACA), Arizona’s statewide economic development organization. During the week, hundreds of tech-focused events will take place across Arizona. Every event is organized individually by startups, companies, and VCs. Learn 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 Honeywell. Honeywell invents and manufactures technologies that address some of the world’s most critical challenges around energy, safety, security, productivity and global urbanization.
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 Sun Corridor Inc.Tech Parks Arizona | VB Cosmetics