July 2026 AZ TechCast | The New Aerospace Economy: Why Arizona Is Taking Off
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.
Episode Overview
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Arizona is rapidly emerging as a national leader in aerospace, aviation, space technologies, advanced air mobility, defense innovation and advanced manufacturing. With major investments, growing public-private partnerships, a strong military presence, world-class research institutions and a thriving innovation ecosystem, the state is becoming a destination for companies shaping the future of mobility, national security and space exploration.
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.
The conversation will also provide listeners with an inside look at the Arizona Aerospace Summit, including its integrated three-track format, Flightline, Orbitline and Frontline, and why bringing these sectors together creates new opportunities for collaboration, innovation and economic growth.
To listen to this episode, follow AZ TechCast on your favorite podcast platform or check out the Council’s YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you’ll be notified when the episode is posted.
Toni Drummond |
Dan Geraci |
Jonathan Roll
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Toni Drummond – Toni Drummond is an internationally recognized aviation entrepreneur whose 25-year career has been defined by groundbreaking contributions to advanced air mobility, sustainable aviation, and emerging aerospace technologies. With a deep understanding of the aviation sector and a history of executive leadership roles, she has continually pushed the industry forward, advancing innovation and elevating standards.
As Founder and President of Future Flight Global, Drummond oversees the global deployment of sustainable aviation assets, including electric and hybrid-powered aircraft and UAVs. Under her guidance, the company is pioneering the “third revolution of air travel”—integrating cutting-edge technologies into commercial markets, disrupting traditional systems, and fostering more accessible, eco-friendly skies.
Previously, Drummond founded the Global Aerial Management Group (GAMG), where her commitment to sustainable aerospace solutions earned the firm the 2021 Women to Watch—Volatus Aerospace Team Innovation Award. Her executive tenure at renowned firms like Titan Aviation U.S., EmreAir Solutions, FirstFlight, Infinity Aviation Group, and PrivatAir honed her strategic vision, regulatory expertise, and operational leadership—essential assets that have consistently driven transformative outcomes and operational efficiencies.
In addition to spearheading innovative business models, Drummond actively shapes industry standards and dialogue. A sought-after speaker at international aviation conferences, she addresses topics such as sustainable flight solutions, UAS/drones, and electric/hybrid air vehicles. She also helps guide industry policy as Co-Chair of the National Air Transportation Association’s (NATA) Advanced Air Mobility Committee and as a member of the National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA) Emerging Technologies Committee. Recognized as a 2023 Woman to Watch in Emerging Aviation, Drummond’s influence on the global aviation landscape remains both profound and enduring.
Dan Geraci – Dan is currently the CEO and President of Critical Infrastructure Investments (CII), now dba as Critical Infrastructure Technologies (CIT), a growing consortium of technology companies focused on the 16 critical infrastructure segments as defined by DHS. CII aims to accelerate the delivery of bleeding edge technologies for the benefit of National Security.
Prior to CII, Dan was the President & CEO of FreeFall Aerospace, a developer of antennas for ground and space communications in Tucson. Prior to FreeFall, Dan was President of Voyager Space Services, a provider of business operating services to emerging space companies under Voyager Technologies.
Dan has more than 40 years of operating experience as a C-suite executive in the securities and asset management industries. He has served as President and CEO of various investment firms, including President of Fidelity Investments Private Wealth Management Group, and other such roles in Boston, Toronto, and NYC. He has led a number of startups and turnarounds.
He currently mentors startups and grownups, and is an active member of the AZTC – Arizona Technology Council. Dan is also a supporter of the Fuse Accelerator and SW-MAC in Phoenix. Dan has spoken to numerous founder groups about the right, and wrong, ways to manage and lead a startup.
Dan is currently a board member of Optimal Cities, LTD and COO of Optimal Cities, LLC, its US company. He is also Co-Founder and Chairman of Blue Marble Technologies, LLC, a water startup. Additionally, Dan serves on the Boards of Niket North America, LLC; Warga Industries; and GLNAD.
A lifelong space enthusiast and amateur astronomer, Dan is a longtime member of The Planetary Society, the world’s largest space interest nonprofit founded by Carl Sagan, and has been Chairman of its Board for the past 20+ years. Over the years, Dan has served on a number of trade industry boards and non-profits in Boston, New York City, Toronto, and Connecticut. He currently lives in Tucson, AZ.
Jonathan Roll – As Assistant Director at Arizona State University’s NewSpace Initiative, Jonathan Roll integrates industry, government, and academia strengths to advance space technology, science, and strategic partnerships. His work includes research on China’s rapidly evolving space ecosystem and commercial space sector. He also serves as Chair of the Arizona Technology Council’s Aerospace, Aviation, Space & Defense Committee, where he helps connect and coordinate leaders across Arizona’s aerospace ecosystem, helping to boost Arizona’s competitive edge and national footprint in these sectors.
About AZTechCast
The official podcast of the Arizona Technology Council, AZTechCast is dedicated to covering innovation and technology in Arizona and beyond. Through the art of the connected conversation, AZ TechCast’s hosts and guests share success stories, tech news and analysis about the region’s leading startups, companies and emerging technologies, as well as the latest industry trends and critical issues propelling Arizona’s growing technology ecosystem. Visit www.aztechcouncil.org/techcast to learn more or to listen to recent episodes.
About PADT, Inc.
Phoenix Analysis and Design Technologies, Inc. (PADT) is an engineering product and services company that focuses on helping customers who develop physical products by providing Numerical Simulation, Product Development, and 3D Printing solutions. The company is an Ansys Elite Channel Partner and a Stratasys Platinum Partner. They are also a channel partner for Flownex, EOS, and ZEISS #handsonmetrology. PADT’s worldwide reputation for technical excellence and experienced staff is based on its proven record of building long-term win-win partnerships with vendors and customers. Since its establishment in 1994, companies have relied on PADT because “We Make Innovation Work.” With over 90 employees, PADT services customers from its headquarters at the Arizona State University Research Park in Tempe, Arizona, and from offices in Torrance, California, Lakewood, Colorado, and Albuquerque, New Mexico as well as through staff members located around the country. More information on PADT can be found at www.PADTINC.com.
