TechTalk eNews: July 2026

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- Aurora launches second-generation driverless trucks in U.S. to meet customer demand
- Why Blue Canoe has supported the Arizona Technology Council since 2012
- Comcast Business Guest Blog: AI is driving a new wave of harder-to-detect cyberattacks
- TSMC revenue hits all-time high as AZ factory production ramps up
- Intel posts $16.1B in quarterly sales, strongest revenue growth in more than 15 years
- Obodo Energy Partners named a 2026 Top Solar Contractor
- Boeing plans Mesa military manufacturing campus expansion
- Honeywell Aerospace signs fleet-wide deal with Aeromexico
- TSMC expands Arizona investment by $100B as earnings soar
- ASU, National Coalition unveil framework for Classroom AI
- SRP pens 600 MW wind deal to help power Greater-Phoenix growth
- FPT Guest Blog: Software as a Medical Device (SaMD): Navigating the Future of Regulated Digital Health in Arizona
- Department of Energy selects 5 University of Arizona research projects through new AI-for-science ‘Genesis Mission’ awards
It’s Not too Late to Join! 2026 Executive Leadership Retreat + Open 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. Not a golfer? No problem! There’s also a networking brunch and writing workshop that promises to provide meaningful conversation and learning. Space is limited—register today!
On the Horizon:11th Annual Cybersecurity Breakfast Forum
Cyber threats are evolving every day. Is your organization ready? Join the Council and Arizona Cyber Threat Response Alliance (ACTRA) on Tuesday, September 15 for the 11th Annual Cybersecurity Breakfast Forum at Grand Canyon University. Hear from leading government and industry experts as they share the latest threat intelligence, emerging trends and practical strategies to protect your organization’s data, systems and reputation. Gain actionable insights, connect with cybersecurity professionals and leave better equipped to navigate today’s rapidly changing threat landscape. REGISTER >>
Expand Your Network at Our August after5 Tech Mixers

Make valuable connections with Arizona’s technology community at one—or both—of our August after5 Tech Mixers. Whether you’re in Southern Arizona or the Phoenix metro area, these casual networking events offer the perfect opportunity to meet fellow technology professionals, exchange ideas and build new business relationships in a relaxed setting.
Join us August 12 as Bosch hosts our Tucson after5 Tech Mixer, then head to Axway in Phoenix on August 19 for another evening of networking with innovators, entrepreneurs and industry leaders from across the state’s technology ecosystem. We look forward to seeing you there!
Women in the Workforce Committee
Ten years of growth, hundreds of career pivots, and one resilient community!
To cap off the 2026 WIW series, the committee is hosting a 10th Anniversary Celebration centered on this year’s theme: Elevate Yourself. This session brings together leaders from across Arizona to talk about the real mechanics of growing one’s career, changing directions and helping others move up the ladder. They’ll follow the conversation with a 10th-anniversary toast at Los Milics—celebrating the shared journeys, the hard-earned lessons and the community we’ve built together over the last decade. Lean more and register here >>
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: A data center moratorium isn’t a retreat. It’s Arizona’s opportunity to get It right

Arizona’s emergence as one of the nation’s premier destinations for data center investment was no accident. It resulted from thoughtful public policy, bipartisan leadership and the recognition that digital infrastructure would become as essential to the modern economy as highways, railroads and airports were to previous generations. 👉 Read more >>
Arizona Technology Council Champions Arizona’s Innovation Economy
With Arizona’s Primary Election now behind us and the November 3 General Election quickly approaching, the Council is diligently working to be the voice advocating for candidates who support our technology-based, pro-growth and business-focused agenda. Earlier this summer, members of the Council’s Public Policy Committee met and thoroughly evaluated candidates to ensure their priorities promote Arizona’s a thriving technology ecosystem and improve the business climate for technology-based companies. These candidates are highlighted in our biennial Vote TechSmart guide, which endorses candidates who support policy positions critical to the technology industry in each of the state’s 30 legislative districts. Read More >>
In this episode of AZ TechCast, hosts Steven Zylstra and Leslie Marquez sit down with three leaders deeply involved in Arizona’s aerospace ecosystem and the planning of the inaugural Arizona Aerospace Summit. Together, they explore why Arizona is uniquely positioned for growth, the convergence of aviation, space and defense industries, emerging technologies transforming the sector, workforce and supply chain challenges, and the opportunities ahead for companies, entrepreneurs and investors. Listen Now >>
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!

SciTech Institute and Arizona Science Center just announced the keynote speaker and first featured speakers for the upcoming 2026 National Rural STEM Learning Summit!
Join Dr. Stephanie Rodriguez (AAAS), Dr. Cori Araza (Grand Canyon University), and Dr. Anna Proctor (UL Research Institutes) as they share practical strategies for strengthening STEM education, workforce development, and community partnerships in rural communities.
Register today and be part of the conversation shaping the future of rural STEM.
📅 September 3–4, 2026
➡️https://scitech-institute.idloom.events/2026-rural-stem-summit

The Council’s success is made possible by the support of our incredible annual sponsors! This month, we’re highlighting Premier Annual Sponsor Yeager Marketing. The team at Yeager is behind the engaging graphics for this year’s Arizona Aerospace Summit. We’re so grateful for their support!
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!


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.
Significant Changes Coming to the Efficiency Arizona Program Due to Federal Government Notice
Arizonans encouraged to apply by August 1, 2026 to access current rebate guidelines
Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) Program
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
10 to 1 PR | AGM Container Controls | Alerion Capital Group | Alliance Bank ark Data Centers | Blue Canoe Marketing | Comcast Business | FPT |




















