INNOVATION AND COLLABORATION
Learn how the PHX East Valley works together to secure major economic wins that will drive growth into the future
LEADING THE WAY: Helping drive the PHX East Valley Partnership are, from left, John Lewis, president and CEO of PHX East Valley Partnership; Kevin Hartke, mayor of Chandler; Julia Wheatley, mayor of Queen Creek; J. Brian O’Neill, executive director and CEO of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport; Bryant Powell, city manager of the City of Apache Junction; Dr. Morgan Olsen, executive vice president, treasurer and CFO of ASU; Anthony Houston, president and CEO of CommonSpirit, Arizona Market; and Mike Hutchinson, executive vice president of PHX East Valley Partnership. (Photo by Mike Mertes, Az Business, a publication of AZ Big Media)
TALENT. GROWTH. OPPORTUNITY.
The PHX East Valley demonstrates what happens when stakeholders and leaders collaborate to effectively overcome challenges, secure big wins and ensure a strong regional future
By ERIN THORBURN
The PHX East Valley Partnership made its mark 40 years ago, uniting local leaders to advocate for various regional issues, including business, education, healthcare, housing and transportation.
“It was several years ago that a group like [PHX East Valley Partnership] was asked about their view of the East Valley,” says John Lewis, president and CEO of PHX East Valley Partnership.
“The three words they selected: Talent. Growth. Opportunity. These words led us on how to market our East Valley to companies outside of Arizona.”
Today, the organization remains strong, exemplifying true regional collaboration in action. What better time to gather some of the East Valley’s leaders and stakeholders to discuss the headwinds, tailwinds and future outlook of a thriving region that honors the roots upon which the PHX East Valley Partnership was founded.
Az Business magazine sat down with some of the East Valley’s prominent players to cover a range of topics — from transportation and water to education and workforce. Take a look:
“ ” Recognizing that the work we do, the relationships that we build, benefit all of our communities.
Kevin Hartke
mayor of Chandler
Anthony (Tony) Houston
president and CEO of CommonSpirit, Arizona Market
Mike Hutchinson
executive vice president of PHX East Valley Partnership
Dr. Shane McCord
superintendent of Gilbert Public Schools
Dr. Morgan Olsen
executive vice president, treasurer and chief financial officer of Arizona State University (ASU)
J.
Brian
O’Neill executive director and CEO of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport
Bryant Powell city manager of City of Apache Junction
John Lewis president and CEO of PHX East Valley Partnership
Julia Wheatley mayor of Queen Creek
PHX EAST VALLEY PARTNERSHIP
Az Business: What do you see as the PHX East Valley’s biggest achievements over the past decade and what lessons have been learned from these successes?
Mike Hutchinson: Every city has exciting things going on. I think that’s because there’s good leadership at the elected official level and at the management level of the cities, and they work together.
J. Brian O’Neill: You stole my thunder, Mike. I’ve been here 10 years now and there is a unique spirit of cooperation in the PHX East Valley that you will not find in other parts of the country. I also have to give SRP and APS a lot of credit because if you’ve seen the tremendous growth that has gone on in the East Valley, planning to energize all of that is going to be a Herculean task.
Julia Wheatley: I feel like with collaboration, all boats rise. We truly celebrate each other’s successes for the Valley, for the region. We recognize that the work we do and the relationships that we build benefit all of our communities.
Bryant Powell: One of the big successes in the East Valley is what we call acquisition and movement of state land into private hands. The ability for the region to see that happen not just for farmland, but also now state land, is huge. I’m sure back in 1912 in Arizona, they never thought that the metro area would get out there, but we’ve seen that happen now and it has brought tremendous change in the far East Valley.
Az Business: What challenges does the PHX East Valley face as it continues to grow and how can they be addressed collectively?
Kevin Hartke: Certainly long-term, water. We have water, but as we experience more growth, we need to make sure that we’re looking long-range — 20, 30, 40, 50 years down the road — and where the water is coming from, how it is entering our system and how are we all being sustainable.
Shane McCord: I think the challenges that we face for K-12 is communicating to the kids and to the parents that there are pathways in place for workforce development.
I could feel a tremor in The Force when [TikTok] went down. We either have to
figure out how to get rid of that stuff or we have to find a way to embrace it. And I think our best choice is to figure out how to embrace it and have the kids bring us along so we can shift gears about how they need to be educated.
MH: We’ve got to keep working on transportation. We’ve done well as a region, but there are still needs out there. We’re not really doing the total job on that. Another is childcare subsidies and how to make childcare readily available. We’ve got to continue to fund these public institutions — ASU, the community college district, the K-12s, the charters.
Az Business: What specific investments in your cities — like downtown revitalization, recreational areas, or infrastructure — are driving economic growth and quality of life?
JW: Downtown in Queen Creek is very exciting right now. We have a lot going on. We just built three new roadways and if you know Queen Creek, we are all in on transportation and investing in the infrastructure for transportation. Building three new roadways is considerable, but especially in our downtown core and creating a vibrant, walkable community.
KH: In Chandler, infrastructure drives so much of what we do because it’s such an important long-term investment. In November, our voters will make a decision on what will probably be about a halfbillion-dollar bond that will focus on public safety, building state-of-the-art forensic facilities, supporting our roads, potentially
constructing a new fire station and keeping up with our parks and recreation facilities.
BP: As we go further south in Apache Junction — where we’re seeing the growth — we’re working with the land ownerships and the landowner, which for us is the state land department. They definitely have a stake in helping us keep our unique character, our own unique stamp of what our parks are going to look like, our libraries, our street signs and lighting downtown.
Az Business: What industries are emerging around Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and how is the airport’s expansion impacting the region’s economic landscape?
John Lewis: I’ve been on the Gateway board and between what is planned and the exciting things happening with the potential east side terminal — there’s a lot in the works for the three cities.
JBO: Virgin Galactic is opening two facilities and later this year, they’re going to start manufacturing six-seat commercial delta spaceships that are going to go into the space tourism program for Virgin Galactic. We’re also talking about electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL), whether they’re piloted or autonomous. Arizona as a state is trying to position itself to be a leader in this emerging industry. And Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is trying to position itself as a resource and a testing ground as that portion of the air transportation industry continues to evolve.
MAKING THE GRADE: With seven locations across the Valley, ASU Preparatory Academy is a tuition-free college preparatory school that serves students in grades K-12 with the goal of helping each student prep for college, prep for careers and prep for life. (Photo courtesy of ASU Preparatory Academy)
PHX EAST VALLEY PARTNERSHIP
Az Business: How are educational partnerships preparing the next generation of talent to meet the needs of the East Valley’s growing industries?
Dr. Morgan Olsen: Under ASU President Michael Crow’s leadership, we set up a new part of the university that we call Learning Enterprise. The idea behind Learning Enterprise is that we believe that people should be what we call universal learners, which means that you start learning almost immediately, find your entrance to this world and continue to learn throughout your lifetime.
We run charter schools like ASU Preparatory Academy. We have about seven different locations around the Valley, many offering a hybrid learning experience — which we all learned how important that was during the pandemic — and then fully digital opportunities as well.
ASU has courses that we call Universal Pathways that are about helping people who may not be sure about post-secondary education and the major commitment of both time and money necessary to be successful. It allows students to take a single course or just a few courses and pay nothing to start.
SM: Looking at the number of CTE programs that we provide in our district, I think there are probably 15 to 20 different types across all of our high schools. And East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) is such a great opportunity for our students to get even more training. I know that they’re choosing career pathways based on the programs that we have at our high schools and what EVIT offers.
Az Business: What continues to make the workforce pipeline an attractive and essential component for industries considering making the PHX East Valley home?
Tony Houston: At Dignity Health, workforce is incredibly important. In the East Valley — and specifically at our
Chandler campus — we’ve brought in residency training programs. We’re in our second year of our five-year buildup in those programs: internal medicine, family practice, OBGYN, emergency medicine and general surgery. We’re growing with over 5,000 employees at Chandler, Gilbert Mercy and Mesa.
JBO: One of our major focuses at the airport is the maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft. With Cessna, Embraer, Textron, Gulfstream and now Virgin Galactic — also with Allegiant having a large maintenance base — there is a dire need for a local pipeline of qualified mechanics. I think what’s really interesting is that the region, whether it’s ASU or Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) or Mesa Community College (MCC), has been working with the companies at the airport to enhance the programming so they can generate this larger pipeline of qualified A&P mechanics.
Az Business: What do you see as the East Valley’s biggest achievements over the past decade and what lessons have you learned from its successes?
JL: When the Lewis family moved here in 1985, we picked Gilbert because of Gilbert Public Schools and a lot of other good school districts nearby. That, by far, is what drew us in. But what was interesting is that the PHX East Valley Partnership was formed in the early 1980s because the East Valley was growing rapidly and we didn’t have infrastructure. And so I’ve just been amazed to see what happened with collaboration.
TH: You’ve got a place to live, you’ve got a place to work, good schools to send your kids to. You’ve got an airport to get in and out of. Why wouldn’t you want to come here? We’ve been so blessed to be on the journey over the last few generations at Dignity Health and it’s incredible to see what the future holds.
J. Brian O’Neill
Dr. Morgan Olsen
Dr. Shane McCord
Mike Hutchinson
Tony Houston Kevin Hartke
John Lewis Bryant Powell
Julia Wheatley
ENERGIZING ARIZONA BUSINESSES
SRP’s Business Demand Response Program helps prevent power outages during the busiest time of year and lowers operating costs for Arizona businesses
By ERIN THORBURN
There is a reason the saying “When one of us wins, we all win,” has withstood the test of time. In most cases it’s true, and Salt River Project’s (SRP) Business Demand Response Program was designed with this adage in mind. This initiative endeavors to simultaneously prevent power outages during the busiest time of year and lower operating costs for Arizona businesses. The result of organizations enrolling? A win-win (for everyone!), and no one knows this more than Grace Klawitter, strategic business account manager for SRP.
No cost with customizable options
A major plus of the SRP Business Demand Response Program — besides being cost-free — is its eligibility versatility. Commercial, institutional, industrial, educational, and municipal organizations are all eligible to sign up.
“The program essentially coordinates with these large customers across the Valley to curtail their load during the summer months when we have exceptionally high load on our grid,” Klawitter says.
Klawitter explains that notifications go out to all enrolled in the Business Demand Response Program from SRP’s partner Enel. Correspondence comes through via email,
Grace Klawitter
phone or SMS, depending on company preferences.
Once companies receive word it’s a good time to reduce their energy use, they can do so by eliminating areas such as nonessential lighting, modifying manufacturing processes, adjusting HVAC equipment and more.
Another benefit of the program; it’s not a one-size-fits-all option.
“We have different options like partial enrollment, full summer enrollment, or even testing the program out for one or two months,” Klawitter says, adding, “We continue to evolve programs to fit our customers’ needs.”
Valuable energy usage insights
To ensure business consumers are getting the most out of the Business Demand
Response Program, SRP and Enel X collaborate to deliver helpful and insightful tools.
“Depending on the program that [customers] are involved in, they get free, real-time energy use analytics,” Klawitter notes. “This allows them to dive in hour by hour to understand how machines or processes are working and how this equates to what energy is being used.”
Sustainability and savings
Ultimately, this knowledge empowers businesses to make smarter decisions and further work toward their sustainability goals.
“Customers that may feel like there are not a lot of avenues for them to engage in sustainability initiatives, find that this [program] is fantastic because everybody uses electricity — the greenest energy is the energy you don’t use,” Klawitter explains. Additionally, each participating business is assigned a dedicated, strategic energy manager (SEM).
“They are such a fantastic resource and can really help, especially if you have any sort of doubts or obstacles that you might see your facility facing,” Klawitter says.
To learn more about how the SRP Business Demand Response Program works and benefits business customers, visit SRP.net/ BDR.
TOOLS OF ATTRACTION
From outdoor escapes to entertainment hotspots, PHX East Valley cities are redefining tourism with a blend of adventure, culture and year-round excitement
By ERIN THORBURN
No parent loves to hear, “I’m so bored,” from their child. And guess what? Companies don’t want to relocate to a place where their employees could say the same, nor travelers in search of excitement. No one knows this better than PHX East Valley cities, whose leaders and tourism organizations have worked tirelessly to
ensure that no human within its region ever has to proclaim boredom. From resorts and agritourism to super-sized recreation, entertainment and shopping destinations, the East Valley has something for everyone — and there are no signs of stopping.
APACHE JUNCTION: An outdoor oasis, with memorable experiences
According to Brock Severson, economic development specialist for the City of Apache Junction, the city has made a name — and prides itself — on being a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, day trip visitors and every tourist in between.
“Not only are we located at the foot of the Superstition Mountains, but we also serve as the gateway to regional attractions such as Lost Dutchman State Park, Goldfield Ghost Town, Canyon Lake, Tortilla Flat and a breathtaking drive down historic SR-88,” he says.
Through the city’s travel website VisitAJ. com, visitors gain access to outdoor recreation, local shops, restaurants, hotels and attractions.
Severson adds that as the PHX East Valley’s footprint grows as a tourist destination, it’s critical that communities like Apache Junction highlight and preserve the beautiful, coveted and legendary natural features that make the city so special.
“These natural wonders are what makes Arizona an attractive destination to residents and tourists and play a key role for our communities to continue to promote fun, adventurous and healthy lifestyles,” he explains.
CHANDLER: Downtown delights and hidden gems
Chandler’s downtown has gained momentum in attracting visitors far and wide, largely due to the city’s investments in the surrounding infrastructure (such as parking). “It has made it incredibly easy for our visitors to explore our downtown district, from the restaurants and bars to the boutique shops or enjoying some of the entertainment and unique events,” says Kimberly Janes, senior tourism program manager for Visit Chandler.
Easily walkable, charming Downtown Chandler is perfectly positioned to accommodate a largely business-based tourism market — but not exclusively.
“Business travel continues to be Chandler’s dominant travel segment,” Janes affirms, “but we get a good share of leisure travel to our community as well. In both cases, we lean into the unique strengths of our community and identify ways to share this information with storytelling about Chandler.”
OASIS IN THE DESERT: Phoenix’s East Valley boasts scenic lakes like Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, and Apache Lake, offering boating, fishing, and kayaking, surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. (Photo provided by Visit Mesa)
PHX EAST VALLEY PARTNERSHIP
Much of Chandler’s story includes several hidden gems and unique experiences, including the iconic Tumbleweed Tree — a holiday tradition that dates back to 1957 — and visiting the largest, independent brewery, SanTan Brewing Co.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS: Artistry and exploration
If there’s one thing Fountain Hills is not short of — it’s art.
“Fountain Hills is proud to have over 100 pieces of public art throughout the community and partners with the River of Time Museum and Exploration Center to hold public art tours for residents and visitors,” says Amanda Jacobs, economic development director of the Town of Fountain Hills.
Jacobs explains that in an effort to elevate the arts, the Town installed eight murals on utility boxes in 2023, gaining popularity by residents, businesses and visitors. “The placemaking program returned in October 2024 with the installation of six new murals,” she says. “The town also proclaimed October 2024 as Arts & Humanities Month and is also known for the Fountain Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts, which began in 1974.”
In addition to celebrating art, Fountain Hills honors its neighbor relationships, working closely with Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation to promote the We-Ko-Pa
Casino Resort, We-Ko-Pa Golf Course and Fort McDowell Adventures.
Big Fountain Hills news recently hit the streets with the announcement of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center (IDSDC).
“IDSDC will be a 23,000-square-foot nonprofit, STEM science facility, which will include a Dark Sky Observatory, Hyperspace Planetarium, Inspiration Theater, a Night Sky Experience Exhibit Hall and an Einstein Exploration Station,” Jacobs says.
GILBERT: Consummate host with a happening Heritage District
Gilbert visitors don’t have to worry about places to stay during their visit. The town is currently home to 14 hotels, two of which are currently under construction and expected to open in early 2025. Plus, nine new additional hotel projects were recently announced, adding to Gilbert’s hospitality pipeline.
“Gilbert has created significant demand in the last decade, coinciding with the launch of Discover Gilbert tourism marketing services. Our destination offerings are genuine and sought after,” says Glenn Schlottman, tourism program manager of Discover Gilbert. “The uniqueness of what Gilbert offers visitors complements the diverse tourism ecosystem in Greater Phoenix.”
Discover Gilbert is currently in year three of a five-year plan layered with tactics that place the town in a competitive position to attract youth sports, increase visitation from friends and families, and support business travel, which all benefit from the town’s close proximity to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport.
“These planning efforts have been guided by the economic development team and included Gilbert’s hospitality stakeholders and contributions from Gilbert’s business community,” says Dan Henderson, director of Gilbert’s Office of Economic Development.
Places like Gilbert’s Heritage District have further elevated the town’s position as a top tourism destination in the East Valley.
“From Gilbert’s Heritage District and the incredible growth in downtown to the expansion projects in Agritopia and SanTan Village and now Cooley Station to the east, we have expertly designed pockets of activity in Gilbert,” Schlottman says. “Hotel developers can see this demand and the influx of new visitor-centric offerings, along with the regional business growth and want to meet it head-on.”
QUEEN CREEK: Agritourism and new addition, Pecan Lake
The Town of Queen Creek continues to gain momentum as a top agritourism destination in Arizona. From annual
HIGH NOTE: Boots in the Park festival in Tempe is a high-energy country music event featuring top artists, great food, and a lively atmosphere, set against the beautiful backdrop of Tempe Beach Park. (Photo provided by Tempe Tourism Office)
PHX EAST VALLEY PARTNERSHIP
Pumpkin & Chili parties and u-pick experiences at Schnepf Farms to The Queen Creek Olive Mill — there is plenty for residents and travelers to experience in the way of entertainment.
The rich natural surroundings and strong agritourism base of Queen Creek is a significant reason for the establishment of Pecan Lake Entertainment. This 10-acre indoor/outdoor family entertainment center offers an abundance of activities for visitors of all ages.
“Our guests come and stay for hours due to the fact that we have multiple amazing food options and various indoor and outdoor seating areas that allow friends and families to gather and have a good afternoon,” says Tim Campbell, president of Pecan Lake Entertainment.
Along with one of the largest steel rope courses in the U.S., Pecan Lake houses a smaller rope course with zip rails under the main course for toddlers, a 21-hole putting course (Pecan National) built within the property’s Botanical Gardens, self-scoring axe throwing, untethered virtual reality, three state-of-the-art escape rooms and more.
Campbell adds that although Pecan Lake has been open less than a year, several of its attractions have gone viral on social media nationwide.
“This has caused a high number of our visitors to come while visiting Arizona from out of state,” Campbell says. “During some holiday periods, over 50% of our guests have been from out of state.”
MESA: A mix of new attractions, accommodations and more
Key destinations such as Revel Surf at Cannon Beach and the expansive sports complexes of the Arizona Athletic Grounds are beckoning visitors to Mesa — but these are only a few examples of what this bustling city has to offer in the way of attractions.
“Mesa boasts a thriving downtown scene with an array of eateries, museums, boutiques, coffeeshops, breweries and live performance venues,” says Marc Garcia, president and CEO of Visit Mesa. “Near downtown, visitors will also discover diverse cultural experiences with mouthwatering cuisine, captivating shops and colorful murals
in the Mesa Asian District.
Out-of-towners are taking advantage of Mesa’s burgeoning hotel market. Recently, Wingate-Hawthorn Hotel on the Mesa Gateway Airport campus and the dual branded 174-room Tempo and Homewood Suites by Hilton have established locations in Mesa’s Gallery Park.
“Candlewood Suites Mesa-Phoenix East will soon bring 108 additional rooms just south of US-60 on Crismon Road,” Garcia says.
Mesa’s key partnerships have also curated programs such as the Fresh Foodie Trail®, an initiative that showcases the region’s unique “farm-to-fork” experiences, further strengthening the city’s collaborative efforts.
“This aligns with the Southeast Valley’s heritage as an agricultural and farming community and emphasizes our authentic local experiences,” Garcia explains.
TEMPE: Events and entertainment mecca Tempe is well established in terms of its accommodations and entertainment, but another area of lifestyle where Tempe truly shines is its events.
“Starting in January, we host the Rock ‘n Roll Half Marathon with 11,000 locals and visitors racing through Tempe,” says Michael Martin, president and CEO of Tempe Tourism. “The event calendar continues through spring with Tempe Blooms, Tempe Spring Festival of the Arts, Arizona Dragon Boat Festival, Arizona Aloha Festival, Innings Fest, Extra Innings Fest and, of course, Cactus League Spring Training.”
Later in the year, Tempe hosts the Four Peaks Tempe Oktoberfest, Ironman Arizona, Tempe Fall Festival of the Arts, Tempe Fantasy of Lights Street Parade and the fan favorite, Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade.
“These events — and others sprinkled throughout the year — drive visitation to Tempe, making the city an epicenter for major events,” Martin notes.
Tempe is also a hub for live music and the arts, as well as sports. ASU Gammage has hosted Broadway shows such as “Wicked,” “Mama Mia!,” “Life of Pi” and “Moulin Rouge” and Tempe is home to the Cactus League’ Los Angeles Angels and the Valley Suns — the NBA G League’s counterpart to the Phoenix Suns.
Glenn Schlottman
Michael Martin
Kimberly Janes
Amanda Jacobs
Marc Garcia
Tim Campbell
Brock Severson
TECH REVOLUTION
PHX East Valley is rapidly evolving into a tech powerhouse, with major investments in semiconductors, healthtech and education fostering an ecosystem that supports both global giants and emerging startups
By ERIN THORBURN
Arizona mule deer can stand within 10 to 20 minutes after being born and double their weight in two weeks — that’s some rapid growth! While the Phoenix East Valley’s (Phoenix) technology ecosystem hasn’t matured in a matter
of weeks, its expansion and evolution has been no less impressive. It’s clear that the region has and continues to put forth tremendous effort to attract national and global companies and entrepreneurial ventures in a wide range of tech-based markets.
A tech ecosystem is born
Mule deer fawns are born of mothers, and the Phoenix East Valley tech ecosystem can point its origin story to early parent companies like Intel, which found its home in Chandler in the 1980s (and continues to expand). The company has designated two new Ocotillo Campus chip factories — Fab 52 and Fab 62 — to bolster U.S. semiconductor production.
In the 2000s, tech giants Apple and Google joined the ranks of Phoenix East Valley tech companies. Together, these heavy hitters (and others) positioned the region as a competitive technology hub, investing billions of dollars into the local economy and attracting companies of all sizes and specialities.
Semiconductor
makes its mark
The forebears of technology economic development ultimately paved the way for what has now become a flourishing semiconductor hotspot in the East Valley. The 2020 news of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s (TSMC) arrival to Greater Phoenix only increased the growth of this critical sector. The $65 billion investment will generate “6,000 direct manufacturing jobs, more than 20,000 accumulated unique construction
jobs, and tens of thousands of indirect jobs,” according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Following TSMC, the semiconductor domino effect was in full swing for Phoenix East Valley.
“Chandler has long been a semiconductor hub. With this investment, it’s really reinforcing Chandler’s global leadership position as an advanced manufacturing center,” says Micah Miranda, economic development director of City of Chandler. “Companies in the advanced manufacturing space are entering our market to serve Intel, TSMC and our other semiconductor companies such as Microchip and NXP.”
Mesa, too, has experienced an uptick of semiconductor growth, with the example of the South Korean semiconductor company KoMiCo to its portfolio in 2023.
“We just announced Magna,” says Jaye O’Donnell, economic development director for the City of Mesa, “and Infineon is a little known company in Mesa; they manufacture semiconductors and wafers.”
Semiconductor supply chain set
The submarket feeding semiconductor maturation has been a bonus addition to the East Valley tech landscape and its growth.
MEDICAL INNOVATION: Arizona Liver Health, in collaboration with Arizona Clinical Trials, has established the ACT Medical Park in Chandler. (Photo provided by ACT Medical Park)
PHX EAST VALLEY PARTNERSHIP
Cognite, a Norwegian industrial software company, identified the value proposition attached to the rapidly scaling semiconductor sector.
“Semiconductor design and manufacturing are essential elements of the AI value chain,” says Jeff Coulter, CFO of Cognite. “Working up front on how these come together with the silicon logic, data modeling software and driving value at the end customer can help create next generation hardware and software infrastructure.”
O’Donnell adds, “[In Mesa] we have Advanced Metals, FUJIFILM, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company and Benchmark Electronics. So we’re really starting to build out the semiconductor supply chain industries.”
Healthtech, biotech make their mark
Semiconductor growth, as significant as it has been, does not represent the entirety of the Phoenix East Valley tech ecosystem. Cognite, mentioned earlier, set to occupy 30,000 square feet of leased space at Tempe’s Hayden Ferry Lakeside III, is a prime example of a tech company that recognized the value of the East Valley’s diverse tech sector.
“Arizona’s growing tech ecosystem is the perfect location for Cognite,” Coulter says. “Cognite’s solutions make it possible for the largest industrial companies, with their diverse and expansive data sources, to contextualize their data to make AI possible, driving uptime, productivity and efficiencies across their enterprise.”
Industrial and advanced manufacturing play a pivotal role in attracting and supporting tech organizations.
“The town is already leveraging the momentum that LG Energy Solution has created by selecting Queen Creek for its new manufacturing facility,” says Doreen Cott, economic development director of the Town of Queen Creek.
Cott explains that Queen Creek has been highlighting the community’s investment in infrastructure that will benefit LG and
the state at large, marketing the available workforce within a 45-minute commute (1.9 million people), and has been working with several supply chain projects that are part of the electric vehicle ecosystem.
“We’re promoting that there is a place in Queen Creek for a wide variety of technology businesses, depending on their needs, since we have brand new existing industrial space, small zoned-sites and mega sites,” she says.
In Chandler, there has been a rise in healthtech — both manufacturing and in the technology required to support clinical trials.
“Wedgewood Pharmaceutical is a new pharmaceutical manufacturing facility — primarily within the animal science space — that will be coming online here in the next couple of years,” Miranda explains. “And that’s going to be out in the Airpark employment corridor.”
Additionally, Arizona Liver Health, in collaboration with Arizona Clinical Trials, has established the ACT Medical Park in Chandler. The state-of-the-art facility focuses on liver health and conducts clinical trials to advance medical research. Miranda explains how this project in particular contributes to the broader tech ecosystem by fostering innovation in medical research and healthcare delivery.
Mesa is also in the midst of a rise in healthtech and biotech. “We have Dexcom [a leader in continuous glucose monitoring technology],” O’Donnell says. “They brought their manufacturing over from San Diego in 2017, and they have since expanded.”
O’Donnell notes that other arrivals include Nucleus RadioPharma, a biotechnology company specializing in the development and manufacturing of radiopharmaceuticals; OptumRX, a pharmacy care services provider that opened a state-of-the-art home delivery pharmacy and Merz Aesthetics, a global aesthetics company, focusing on research and development in the field of aesthetic medicine.
Gilbert continues to be a growing hub for biotechnology, life sciences, and healthcare, adding to an existing robust base in information and communications technology (ICT), aerospace and aviation and clean technology.
“[Biotechnology, life sciences and healthcare] growth over the last five years in Gilbert (49%) was almost double that of the state and is projected to grow by another 16% in the next five years,” says Dan Henderson, director of economic development of the Town of Gilbert. “There are over 2.2 million square feet of hospital and clinical research facilities, including
MESA INNOVATION: In November, Nucleus RadioPharma recently signed a lease and committed to build a new manufacturing facility in Mesa. (Photo by Ryan Wilson Photography)
PHX EAST VALLEY PARTNERSHIP
Banner M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, the Ironwood Cancer Research Center, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center and Banner Gateway Medical Center.”
Gilbert has contributed more than 650,000 square feet of medical and healthcare development to the Phoenix East Valley within the last two years.
Nature and nurture
The mule deer in the Sonoran Desert have all they need — from mesquite leaves to prickly pear pads — to thrive in their environment. The same can be said for the technology ventures that make Phoenix their home. Within this region, companies benefit from a robust workforce fed in large part by the local K-12 and post-secondary education systems.
“Our team consistently hears from tech and other businesses that they selected Tempe for its location, access to an educated and available workforce, and the presence of Arizona State University (ASU),” says April Kroner, deputy economic development director for the City of Tempe.
In March of 2023, ASU’s Fulton School expanded to the ASU West Valley campus with the School of Integrated Engineering, bringing the number of Fulton Schools to eight, and by Fall 2023, exceeding enrollment to 31,000 students.
“Our Tempe location is ideal for taking advantage of local universities that have extensive programs aligned with Cognite’s technical areas of AI, large data models and machine learning,” Coulter says.
Many East Valley cities make concerted efforts to match the tech ecosystem with continuity of education, starting early. Cott explains that Queen Creek accomplishes this by working with the K-12 educational systems, career and technical education (CTE) programs and evolving key relationships with Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) and Central Arizona College (CAC).
“Gaining knowledge about the certification programs that are available to provide local residents the skills needed in key tech jobs in a condensed time frame is critical for companies needing to hire skilled employees,” Cott says.
In Gilbert, Park University, University of Arizona College of Nursing, ASU’s Polytechnic Campus and CGCC are not only bolstering Gilbert’s talent pipeline, they are fueling emerging technologies from educational institutions, strengthening STEM occupations and placing a strong focus on innovation and tech industries — all of which help lay the foundation for the community’s and greater East Valley region’s future.
And of the graduates of post-secondary institutions, Miranda adds, “They’re cranking out students who most importantly can critically think regardless of degree specialty. And that’s something all organizations need.”
United front
In addition to a skilled talent pool and educational foundation, the other essential component to perpetuating a healthy tech ecosystem is regional collaboration.
“I think we’re very collaborative and I think a lot of that stems from wanting to work together,” O’Donnell says, “because I learned from other economic developers in other communities and what someone does in Chandler or Scottsdale, we know it’s going to affect us too.”
Kroner concludes, “With the other major tech companies in the East Valley, we will continue to work with our regional and state partners such as the PHX East Valley Partnership, Greater Phoenix Economic Council and Arizona Commerce Authority to make sure we continue to offer a favorable and supportive business climate to retain the significant companies here, and to attract other businesses in the supply chain that are advantageous to bring into our ecosystem.”
Jaye O’Donnell
Micah Miranda
April Kroner
Dan Henderson
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TECH BOOM IN PHX EAST VALLEY: THE FUTURE OF INNOVATION
The East Valley of the Phoenix metropolitan area is quickly solidifying its reputation as one of the nation’s most dynamic technology hubs.
Encompassing Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe and Scottsdale, this region has become a powerhouse for investment in semiconductor manufacturing, aerospace, data centers and advanced industrial solutions. With tech giants like Intel, Meta and Virgin Galactic establishing a stronger presence, the East Valley is experiencing a surge of economic growth that is shaping the future of the region.
Semiconductor industry driving growth
Arizona’s semiconductor industry is a key economic driver, with the East Valley at the heart of the sector’s rapid growth. The massive $105 billion semiconductor boom underway across the state includes a $20 billion investment concentrated in the region. With Intel’s cutting-edge facility in Chandler, the company continues to make significant contributions to this movement. marking a major milestone in semiconductor production in the U.S. This investment not only brings high-tech jobs but also fuels an ecosystem of suppliers and service providers that strengthens the regional economy.
Supporting this semiconductor expansion is XNRGY, which recently marked the near completion of its U.S. headquarters in Mesa. The company specializes in advanced HVAC systems tailored for semiconductor fabs and battery facilities. XNRGY’s presence highlights the growing industrial support network emerging alongside the region’s booming semiconductor sector.
Steven G. Zylstra Technology
The semiconductor industry’s growth has also led to increased investments in workforce training and education. Local universities and community colleges are expanding their STEM programs to meet the rising demand for skilled workers. Initiatives such as apprenticeship programs from organizations like TSMC, Maricopa county, Intel’s Fresh Start Women’s Foundation program and partnerships with major tech firms are ensuring a steady pipeline of talent to support this highgrowth industry.
Data center surge: Meta, Google and more
The East Valley has quickly become one of the fastest-growing markets for data centers, a crucial component of today’s digital economy. Tech giant Meta recently opened a massive data center in Mesa, celebrating a grand opening that cements its commitment to the region. Google is also preparing to launch a data center in Mesa, adding to the region’s status as a key player in digital infrastructure.
These data centers not only support the operations of major technology companies but also create high-paying jobs and stimulate
demand for renewable energy solutions. With the increasing reliance on cloud computing and artificial intelligence, the East Valley’s data center portfolio is expected to keep expanding in the coming years.
Additionally, these companies are implementing sustainability efforts to address the high energy consumption of data centers. They are increasingly investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to offset their environmental impact. The push for greener data centers aligns with Arizona’s broader sustainability initiatives, making the East Valley a leader in eco-friendly technology infrastructure.
Aerospace and space tourism take off
The East Valley’s connection to the aerospace industry continues to grow with the expansion of Virgin Galactic’s operations. The company recently completed construction of its spaceship manufacturing facility near Mesa Gateway Airport. This facility will serve as a cornerstone for Virgin Galactic’s ambitions in space tourism, bringing new advanced manufacturing jobs and high-tech research to the region. The commercial space project also signals strong confidence in the region’s workforce and infrastructure capabilities, further boosting the local economy.
In addition to space tourism, the East Valley is seeing growth in drone technology and aerospace research. Several startups and established companies are working on next-generation unmanned aerial vehicles and space exploration technologies. These advancements further position the region as an emerging hub for aerospace innovation.
Economic development and future prospects
The rapid growth in the East Valley isn’t happening in isolation. Local economic development teams have been instrumental in attracting these high-profile investments. Mesa’s Office of Economic Development team has been instrumental in securing tech sector commitments, driving recordbreaking expansion in the region.
However, the rapid pace of growth has raised concerns about market saturation. Some industry experts question whether the region can sustain this level of expansion, particularly in sectors like semiconductor manufacturing and data centers that require significant energy. Despite these concerns, economic indicators suggest that the East Valley’s tech sector is still in the early stages of its full potential.
One key initiative being explored is improved infrastructure to support continued growth. Investments in transportation, housing and public services are being prioritized to accommodate the influx of workers and businesses. Local governments are working closely with tech companies to ensure that urban planning efforts align with the region’s expanding economic landscape.
The future of East Valley’s tech growth
As investment continues to pour into
the East Valley, the region is becoming a national focal point for innovation. The convergence of semiconductor manufacturing, data centers and aerospace technology is creating an interconnected ecosystem that will drive job creation and technological advancements for years to come.
With companies like Intel, Meta, Virgin Galactic and XNRGY doubling down on their commitments to the East Valley, it is poised to be at the forefront of Arizona’s technological revolution. Whether through groundbreaking semiconductor manufacturing, state-ofthe-art data centers or pioneering space tourism, the region is proving that it has the infrastructure, talent and investment to sustain its rapid ascent as a technology powerhouse.
Moving forward, partnerships between government entities, educational institutions and private sector leaders will be crucial in maintaining this momentum. The East Valley’s ability to adapt to emerging technologies and address infrastructure challenges will determine its long-term success as a leading innovation hub in the United States.
Steven G. Zylstra is the president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council.
RISING UP: Meta announced on Jan. 30 that its Mesa Data Center is now serving traffic. That means that this data center is now part of the company’s global infrastructure that brings its technologies and services to life, making it possible to connect billions of people worldwide. (Photo courtesy of Meta)
PHX EAST VALLEY TO-DO LISTS
Here’s what mayors cite as priorities to help improve the way their residents live, work and play
Amayor’s to-do list is essential for staying organized, prioritizing community needs and ensuring efficient governance. It helps track key projects, address pressing issues and improve city operations. A well-structured list keeps leadership focused, accountable, and proactive in delivering results that enhance residents’ quality of life and city development. Here are some of the 2025 to-do lists from PHX East Valley mayors.
Apache Junction Mayor Chip Wilson
Wilson says the top three items on his to-do list for the City of Apache Junction in 2025 include:
• Continuing the advancement of the Weekes Wash Retention Basin project, a multi-use detention facility near Lost Dutchman Boulevard and State Highway 88. During monsoon season, Weekes Wash Retention presents a significant flood risk to residents and businesses, including properties in the floodplain. This project aims to reduce flood risks for community members, reduce the risk to utility infrastructure, enhance emergency service access and remove many properties downstream from the FEMA floodplain. The city was awarded $44.5 million in federal funding and is working to obtain additional funding.
• Creating a more vibrant and thriving downtown district for residents and visitors. To help make this vision a reality, in 2024, the city closed on a historic land purchase of 10 acres in the downtown district as part of its ongoing efforts to revitalize the area. To establish an updated vision, the
city worked with Swaback Architects + Planners to create the Concentrated Downtown Master Plan Update utilizing data gathering, market assessment and community input through multiple public open houses and interviews. This document was adopted by the city council in November of 2024. Apache Junction’s new economic development director has a decade of experience and a comprehensive understanding of the East Valley that will be essential in advancing the city’s economic development efforts.
• Managing growth, while preserving the small-town feel for Apache Junction residents. Apache Junction is growing with the addition of two new, exciting residential communities in the south. The city is working to help new residents feel welcome and connected with residents to the north. Apache Junction will be adding a future police substation and library to maintain its quick calls of service and provide residents with library resources. Also, the city is working with the Maricopa Association of Governments to conduct a corridor study of Meridian Road from SR 24 to Superstition Boulevard to identify improvements that address current and future travel needs for the growing area.
Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke
The top three items on Hartke’s to-do list for the City of Chandler are:
• Bond election: “Bonds are the funding source that we rely on for improvements to our streets, parks, recreation centers and public safety facilities and equipment. We intend to seek voter-approval of a bond package this fall to fund future
improvements in those areas.”
• General plan and comprehensive housing plan: “We’re beginning the process to update Chandler’s General Plan and create a Comprehensive Housing Plan as required by state law. These plans will guide future development and redevelopment in our community. The General Plan will go to voters in 2026 for approval.”
• Community safety: “Chandler is one of our nation’s safest cities and one of the most diverse communities in Arizona. We celebrate that cultural diversity through community events and how we use technology to serve residents and businesses in multiple languages. We’ll start the process this year to design and build a new forensics sciences facility that will expand our capability to investigate and solve crime. In preparation for launching a municipal ambulance service in 2027, we’ll initiate the approval process with the Department of Health Services, acquire equipment and recruit and train people to fulfill the emergency medical service needs of our community.”
Fountain Hills Mayor Gerry Friedel
The top three things on Friedel’s to-do list for Fountain Hills in 2025 include:
• Meeting with the newly elected Sheriff to review enhancements to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) contract.
• Continue to work with Fountain Hills economic development team to add to the well-being and quality of life in the community.
• Working with the finance team to review all options available for road repairs and maintenance.
Gilbert Mayor Scott Anderson
“As Gilbert’s new mayor, I have identified three core priorities for 2025,” Anderson says.
“First, I am committed to connecting with the community to hear about challenges, concerns, and victories. To do this, I am planning to host quarterly public listening sessions.
“Second, I am steadfast in supporting all communication and engagement efforts between the town and the community that explain the town’s priorities when looking at future needs and the necessary critical steps to ensure that the Gilbert of the future is as vibrant and prosperous.
“Third, I support all efforts to maintain forward momentum for several new key town facilities, whether in the discussion, the design, or the build phase. We have a bright future, and I am excited to collaborate with community leaders, residents, and the business community to drive Gilbert forward.”
Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman
“As Mesa’s mayor, my top priorities are securing our water supply for the future, enhancing public safety and driving economic growth,” Freeman says.
“Securing a sustainable water supply is crucial for Mesa’s long-term prosperity and economic growth. To achieve this, I plan to expand conservation initiatives, build proper infrastructure, and partner with the Salt River Project (SRP) and our tribal communities.
“Enhancing public safety is another key priority. While Mesa already has a wellestablished police department, I plan to add more fire stations and expand community policing efforts to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors.
“Driving economic growth is also important. To achieve this, I plan to strengthen partnerships and collaborate with businesses, developers, and stakeholders. By doing so, we can create a vibrant economy that benefits all residents and visitors of Mesa.
“Additionally, I plan to focus on revitalizing commercial districts and ensuring that developments meet the characteristics of the neighborhoods. This will help to enhance the City’s appeal to residents and visitors alike.”
Queen Creek Mayor Julia Wheatley
“Our top three priorities include public safety, continued development in our downtown and major milestones in the area of recreation,” Wheatley says.
• Public safety: “With the Queen Creek Police Department launching just three years ago and the Queen Creek Fire and Medical Department expanding to include ambulance services, we will have more growth in each of these areas over the next year with additional hires, expanded facilities and continued high-quality public safety services. The Town is in the design phase for QCPD headquarters and we’re looking forward to opening our joint public safety training center later this year.”
• Development: “At the end of 2024 we celebrated the opening of our downtown core connectors, which provided the infrastructure to help spur a vibrant and walkable downtown. We look forward to the groundbreaking of several exciting developments in our downtown including the Switchyard, the Perch and the SacredPint.”
• Recreation: “I am so excited for the opening of our new Queen Creek Recreation & Aquatic Center on March 29! The state-of-the-art facility will be a gathering space for our community for generations to come, Some of the highlights of the facility include water slides, lazy river, activity pool, elevated indoor walking track, multi-use courts, and teen room. This has been years in the making and truly reflects a shared vision of our community.”
Tempe Mayor Corey Woods
Here are Mayor Woods’ three priorities for his city in 2025:
• Downtown Mill Avenue refresh initiative: A revitalization effort aimed at enhancing the vibrancy of Mill Avenue with improved infrastructure, streetscapes and public spaces to attract businesses and visitors.
• Hometown for All projects: Accelerating affordable and workforce housing developments to ensure Tempe remains an inclusive and accessible city for residents of all income levels, looking to move forward with these projects this year.
• Bond-funded street improvements: Investing in citywide road upgrades that enhance the driving experience, safety and mobility for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Mark Freeman Scott Anderson
Chip Wilson
Julia Wheatley
Kevin Hartke
Gerry Friedel
Corey Woods
