Sun Corridor Inc. Boasts $39 Billion Impact, Economic Synergy for Region
By Jay Gonzales
With a series of significant scores under its proverbial belt in its 20 years of existence, Sun Corridor Inc. knows it’s never time to just start running clock and play defense.
The region’s longest running economic development group has worked diligently in partnership with corporate, government and community leaders to transform what was once a difficult business environment, to a successful one that is building a game plan for long-term success.
Caterpillar and Amazon are two industry giants that have planted
roots here since 2015. Longtime local employers Raytheon, Bombardier and Roche have had major expansions while also making commitments to keep their presence in the region. Companies invested in future technology such as American Battery Factory, Sion Power and PowerPhotonic decided to headquarter here.
Those notable successes, along with over 200 other company locates and expansions, have added up to an estimated $39 billion impact, primarily through job creation.
As the organization begins its third continued on page 70 >>>
BizECONOMY
20 YEARS OF SUN CORRIDOR INC. SUCCESS
Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities, or TREO, founded by Blue Ribbon Committee.
TREO officially opens for business. Pella Corporation announces expansion to Tucson.
La Costena/Arizona Canning Company expands to Tucson.
Economic Blueprint published establishing targeted industries. Target.com announces new fulfillment center in Tucson.
continued from page 69
decade, Sun Corridor Inc. is keeping its offense on the field with a plan to understand how the region is being perceived to continue its competitive edge in the game of economic development. It sounds simple – create jobs and you win – but it’s not.
Joe Snell, president and CEO of Sun Corridor Inc., says there’s way more to it, in particular because the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed how business works and consequently completely changed the game.
“Looking back 20 years, good things have happened and there have been some missed opportunities. But with COVID, we’ve seen a major fundamental shift in how business is done,” said Snell, the first and only president of Sun Corridor Inc. since it changed its name from Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities, or TREO, in 2015.
TREO moves to private-sector model. Bombardier announces major expansion.
“Tucson: Job One” plan published. Economic Blueprint Update published.
Roche Tissue Diagnostics announces major expansion in Oro Valley.
“You’re talking about sea shifts in the way the economy is operating,” he said. “Companies relocate for a couple reasons. One, they’re leaving a bad regulatory environment. But mostly, they’re leaving because it’s easier to attract companies or employees to a high quality-of-life place like Arizona. The game changed because people can live anywhere and work wherever.”
Entrepreneurial Blueprint published. Accelerate Diagnostics announces move to Tucson.
TREO expands geographic focus and announces name change to Sun Corridor Inc. Caterpillar announces new regional headquarters, HomeGoods announces major distribution center in Tucson.
The new environment has brought into focus the fact that employers don’t fund job growth in communities, “they fund economic growth and job growth is a by-product,” Snell said. Understanding that, he said, the question now is w to get competitive and stay competitive for long-term economic growth.
The so-called “sea shift” also got Snell thinking that Sun Corridor Inc., and the region as a whole, had work to do that was different from the previous strategic plans that have helped trigger some of the economic development victories of the last 20 years.
The 2007 Economic Blueprint, its 2014 update, and the 2021 Pivot Playbook have guided Sun Corridor Inc. and economic development in the region to where it is today. But the environment has changed.
“That change got me thinking that we better go figure
out how we’re being perceived because what we were counting on 10 years ago is just not valid,” Snell said.
Sun Corridor Inc. spent the last year conducting a comprehensive study: “Competing at a Higher Level: Increasing Southern Arizona’s Economic Competitiveness.”
In its introduction, the study states, “The last several years have caused fundamental shifts in the economy that impact not only what we are competing for but also how we compete. To continue to be competitive and build upon our successes, Southern Arizona must re focus its economic development efforts around the factors that drive economic competitiveness, build on its strengths, and commit to a strategy that prioritizes addressing its biggest challenges.”
“This is just a time of opportunity that we’ve never seen before with all of the onshore tax incentives, and manufacturing, data center and mining growth opportunities,” said Susan Gray, president and CEO of Tucson Electric Power. Gray is in her second year as board chair for Sun Corridor Inc.
Raytheon announces major expansion of campus at TUS.
“As a region, we’re always in the conversation,” she said. “This is a good opportunity to see some trends, where are we possibly improving, where are we still lagging, and identify some areas that we want to focus on.”
The report, which was authored by Susan Dumon, executive VP at Sun Corridor Inc., focuses on five “key competitive opportunities:”
1. Develop bold, collaborative solutions to regional issues by aligning and strengthening business voices
2. Support new leadership at the University of Arizona to strengthen the institution and continue its legacy of academic excellence
3. Build sustainable economic partnerships between Southern Arizona and Mexico
4. Grow the talent base
5. Accelerate access to Arizona state land to meet market demand
Each of those five points has already seen some action.
continued on page 72 >>>
Sun Corridor Inc. hosts Site Selectors Guild in Tucson. Hexagon announces new mining division headquarters in Downtown Tucson.
Amazon announces major fulfillment center in Tucson leading to five locations in the region. Schnitzer Properties enters Tucson market, planning multiple future spec buildings. GEICO and Texas Instruments announce expansions.
Tucson International Airport Blueprint developed. Modular Mining announces expansion.
PVB Fabrications announces expansion in Tucson.
Pivot Playbook released. Thrive in Tucson talent attraction campaign launched. CIS Global expands. BD announces new facility in Tucson.
American Battery Factory announces new headquarters in Tucson. Sion Power, Roche and NW Healthcare announce expansions. PowerPhotonic announces new Sahuarita headquarters.
Sun Corridor Inc. hosts Site Selector Forum. Belden, MHIRJ, and Skywest announce expansions in Tucson. Sun Corridor Inc. signs Sonora Global Mexico agreement. Thrive in Tucson healthcare talent campaign launched.
Ascent Aviation announces expansion. MicroStar expands to Tucson.
“It’s easier to attract companies or employees to a high quality-of-life place like Arizona.”
– Joe Snell President & CEO Sun Corridor Inc.
continued from page 71
In mid-December, Sun Corridor Inc. and the Tucson Metro Chamber announced a merger to address Item 1 in the competitiveness report. They are merging to begin consolidation of the “voices” representing the region’s businesses. (See story on Page 74)
Sun Corridor Inc. has established a formal partnership with Sonora Global, the economic development arm for Sonora, Mexico, to promote trade and economic development as a megaregion.
There’s a new president at the University of Arizona, Suresh Garimella, and Sun Corridor Inc. wants to ensure that he gets the business, government and community support to strengthen the “town and gown” relationship and further focus on developing the talent businesses across the region need. As our region rises, Snell says, so does the UA – and vice versa.
At the outset of developing those five opportunities, Snell said he learned that while there are significant issues the region has to deal with, significant progress has been made in 20 years by Sun Corridor.
“The positivity of the outsiders was different from what I saw 20 years ago,” Snell said. “In that first perception study in 2006, the locals, by far, thought this was a more competitive place than the outsiders did.”
While “locals” felt Tucson was a great place, with a strong university and a strong talent base, Snell said, outsiders weren’t as impressed with UA, the talent was just so-so, and as for living here, it’s hot.
Since then, impressions have changed about what was driving perception of the region. The resurgence of downtown has dramatically improved the quality-of-life factor, Snell said. Site selectors are saying the region is “on the cusp of greatness” but not quite there, which is why Sun Corridor Inc. is looking at competitiveness to develop strategies to get there.
Another burning question: Where is “there?” What does Tucson want to be? And can the five key opportunities in the study get the region “there?”
“I think to a large degree, what it really means is, corporations are going to come and put in nice quality companies here if you can get this figured out. I think what it also means − and it’s a very sensitive subject – is it going to convert you from a sleepy Southwestern town to a town that has business growth, jobs, and income that’s achieving our mission of wealth creation for all. That’s the greatness we can achieve.”
BizECONOMY
Upcoming Merger Consolidates
Sun Corridor Inc. and Tucson Metro Chamber
to Become One
Two of Southern Arizona’s leading and most influential business organiza tions are merging into one to create an organization with more resources and a more unified voice for the community, it was announced in December.
Sun Corridor Inc., the region’s economic development arm, and the Tucson Metro Chamber, founded nearly 130 years ago and currently representing 1,500 businesses, will become one to address the many emerging business issues brought about by a massive change in how companies operate and postpandemic industry trends.
The merger is in response to a finding in a competitiveness report Sun Corridor Inc. completed in 2024 which suggested that the region has too many business organizations with varying interests and strategies, and that there should be some consolidation. The report cited 20 different local and regional business organizations operating in the region.
“This move will be transformational to Tucson and Southern Arizona’s success in building an even stronger economic foundation,” said Joe Snell, President & CEO at Sun Corridor Inc., said in a news release. “This new chamber will represent a unified voice to effectively meet regional challenges for decades to come.”
Snell will serve as president & CEO of the new organization, it was announced in the news release. Current
Electric Power and current board chair of Sun Corridor Inc., will be the new organization’s chair.
“I am immensely proud to serve as the first chair of this newly formed chamber,” Gray said. “Both our boards recognized the need for a powerhouse organization that will advocate for a strong business center in Southern Arizona. We applaud both boards’ vision to make this happen and look forward to working together with our business memberships, elected officials and others to launch this in 2025.”
Linda Welter, chair of the Tucson Metro Chamber and CEO at The Caliber Group, a prominent local brand marketing and public relations firm, added: “Our Boards supported this merger because we believe that our region needs a stronger chamber that is more effective in creating an environment where current and relocating businesses can thrive. The time is right for this merger to take place, for both organizations will be able to accomplish more together than what each can accomplish alone.”
In the news release, the two organizations said the primary benefit of the merger is to create a unified strategy on behalf of the region’s business community. The two staffs will be combined with no reductions.
Inc., its membership represents 90% of all employment in Pima County.
“I applaud our collective vision and continued commitment to adopt innovative approaches that challenge the status quo to achieve even greater success,” Guymon said. “I am excited about the merger and look forward to working with our new board leadership, staff, investors, members and volunteers of both organizations to become bolder advocates for the businesses in our region.”
The organizations said their new mission is “to drive economic growth and prosperity through job creation in the region by uniting business advocacy and development efforts, fostering an environment where businesses thrive, and promoting Tucson and Southern Arizona as a vibrant economic hub on both domestic and international stages.”
The combined functions will include business attraction, retention and expansion; talent attraction; competitiveness; advocacy/public policy; emerging leaders; and small business support.
The new organization will have a new name to be announced at a later date, and will include a board of directors, investors, committee members and staff representing both entities.
SUSAN GRAY
MICHAEL GUYMON LINDA WELTER
JOE SNELL
CHAIR OF THE BOARD
What’s the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
SUSAN GRAY
PRESIDENT & CEO
TUCSON ELECTRIC POWER
Sun Corridor’s cooperative, regional approach to economic development has helped us secure some significant wins over the past two decades. One highlight is the South 32 Hermosa mine in Santa Cruz County. This will be a great new resource not only for our region but for the country at large. The mine will produce critical minerals for our clean energy transition while also practicing “next generation” mining to minimize its impact on the environment. Because the project is located outside of Pima County, it might not have been a focus for economic development officials working separately in Tucson or other local jurisdictions. But Sun Corridor brings together representatives from throughout Southern Arizona, giving us greater opportunities to attract projects that create broad benefits for our entire region.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
investments. Professionally, I lead companies that serve as Southern Arizona’s primary energy providers. Both Tucson Electric Power and UniSource Energy Services, which provides both electricity and natural gas to customers in Santa Cruz County, are heavily invested in our region’s economic success. Unlike other companies, we can’t seek growth by expanding to other cities. We are literally hard-wired into our local economies. So, the best way for us to succeed is to support the prosperity of the communities we serve, and Sun Corridor is focused on that same goal.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
Personally, I’m excited about the opportunity to help our community thrive. We’re seeing incredible growth opportunities right now, including increased investment in domestic manufacturing and onshoring supply chains, and I enjoy working ogether with other local leaders to secure our share of those
Our location provides many well-known advantages, including natural beauty and warm weather that attract visitors and provide residents with so many recreational opportunities. But we’re also in a geologically stable region that’s relatively safe from the natural disasters that seem to be occurring more frequently in so many other areas. We don’t have to worry about hurricanes or earthquakes, and our summer monsoon storms are not nearly as damaging as the extended winter freezes that are becoming more common even in warmer states like Texas. This helps us keep our roads clear and our electric service reliable. That kind of stability is becoming less common as our weather grows more extreme, giving Southern Arizona new opportunities to attract technology providers, manufacturers, and others who need reliable, around the clock energy and other services.
BY
PHOTO
CHRIS MOONEY
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
JUDY RICH
PRESIDENT & CEO (RETIRED)
TMC HEALTH
What’s the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
Sun Corridor has defined itself as the authority on growing business in our region. It crosses community lines and serves as a facilitator in the recruitment of complementary new businesses and the growth of existing companies.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
I am involved because I see the unique and successful role Sun Corridor plays with the region’s largest employers.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the
region?
To think as a region and collaborate to create opportunities that benefit the whole rather than any one area.
PHOTO BY CHRIS
Biz
MOONEY
SECRETARY/TREASURER
What’s the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
DAVID SMALLHOUSE
MANAGING DIRECTOR
MIRAMAR VENTURES
I am most impressed by Sun Corridor’s unique ability to accomplish two things at the highest levels. First, Sun Corridor as a thought leader pushes our community’s elected and business leaders to focus on our most pressing regional issues with an emphasis to think big on solutions. Business site selectors have told us that our region is on the cusp of greatness. But we do have work to do to get there. Second, Joe and his team get things done. In the last 20 years, Sun Corridor successes have been incredibly significant. The numbers are so impressive – over 200 company relocations and expansions, totaling nearly $40 billion in economic impact. These successes have positively impacted all sectors of our community. The Sun Corridor team’s ability to focus and execute major strategic issues is a rare combination.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
My family dates back several generations in Southern Arizona. With my family’s roots, I care deeply about the success of our community. I have not been involved in a group that has had more success in terms of impacting our regional economy than Sun Corridor. Being on the cusp of greatness, it is an exciting time to be involved in the big ideas and bold solutions that will drive our economy forward. We are all beneficiaries of the superb work that Sun Corridor has and will continue to accomplish.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
I am most excited about the opportunity for the region to have a more unified business voice. Conversations are happening to drive this forward in a very impactful way. Our regional competitors in most cases have more resources than us. A unified business approach allows us to more effectively utilize our limited resources. We cannot continue to operate in silos. The current and future issues we face are overarching and interconnected. Combining complementary efforts and reducing duplication creates an immensely powerful means to positively transform our economy.
PHOTO BY CHRIS MOONEY
JOE SNELL
PRESIDENT & CEO
SUN CORRIDOR INC.
What’s the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
I don’t think it is just one thing. I do recognize that Sun Corridor has acted as a thought leader in the development of issues / ideas that have helped transform our economy. Our ability to rise above the transactions and focus on the issues that are transformational is what separates us from the other organizations.
What keeps you up at night?
What keeps me up is ensuring we have the ability to win the talent wars. As a market, are we creating a community that can compete with others in our quest to attract and retain talent. Are we providing the plethora of assets necessary to attract and retain the best and the brightest?
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
It is clear that we are a region poised to win. We have the critical assets necessary to win big. The biggest opportunity is for us is to simply go out and make that happen. It will require working together with unity and purpose to achieve this success. No one leader or group will achieve this. It will take diversity and will to achieve success.
PHOTO BY CHRIS
MOONEY
DANETTE BEWLEY
PRESIDENT & CEO
TUCSON AIRPORT AUTHORITY
What’s the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
Sun Corridor’s biggest success has been organizing a regional effort for economic development. Having a regional agency represent the desires and benefits of Southern Arizona to interested businesses makes our region more competitive for projects that are a fit for the community.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
• TAA, like the rest of the community, benefits when Sun Corridor brings new business to the region. Their success building commercial activity has bolstered community economic development, which in turn, adds community support through an increased passenger base for Tucson International Airport.
• Sun Corridor represents the interests of TAA to those who wish to invest their businesses in and around our airports. They are a force multiplier for outreach to site selectors and potential industrial partners looking for a place to expand their business.
• Sun Corridor also helps steer interested investors to the airport. They work in concert with our business and commercial development team to cultivate business leads.
• Sun Corridor adds organization to our business development efforts. They serve as a one-stop shop for business prospects as well as local partners.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
Talent attraction for high tech industries, such as aerospace and defense and the medical industry, is extremely important. As a community, we must work to ensure that education and technical training is available, and we are attracting and graduating the next generation of workforce for the region.
BY
PHOTO
CHRIS MOONEY
MICHAEL CROW
PRESIDENT
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
What’s the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
Among the successes of Sun Corridor, Inc., what stands out is the progress that has been made in helping to evolve a new mindset and framework for planning. Through its efforts, the vision and planning for the region has expanded from isolated, silo-like approaches to broader, more cohesive thinking that is open to the unlimited opportunities Arizona has to thrive. That challenging, but critical progress has enabled the meaningful growth of the Sun Corridor and positioned our state to be a leader in innovation, sustainability, technology and so much more.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
I am involved in Sun Corridor Inc., because I believe that Arizona has the talent, creativity and natural capital to continue growing as one of the top megaregions in the country. One that can foster incredible social, economic and cultural outcomes capable of competing with the most competitive nations around the globe. To be clear, that is the scale of growth and potential we are talking about, and Sun Corridor Inc., is dedicated to making it happen. That level of progress can only occur through our collective imagination, collaboration and innovation.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
The biggest opportunity for the region is to capitalize on the vast perspectives and experience in Arizona to think beyond limits. The opportunity to pursue the possibilities of what it means to live in a place that boasts a genuine pioneering spirit, natural beauty, an abundant energy source, a strong and growing network of experts, leaders and entrepreneurs, an enviable quality of life, and an excitement for the future. We have all the ingredients and enthusiasm to distinguish our region, but we need the collective will to seize our chance to dream big, make bold decisions and lead.
ALISON FLYNN GAFFNEY CEO
BANNER-UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER TUCSON
BANNER-UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER SOUTH
What attributes of this region attracted you here?
Tucson and Southern Arizona’s unique blend of natural auty, rich history and vibrant culture captivated me. The stunning mountain ranges, diverse landscapes and abundant sunshine offer an unparalleled quality of life. Tucson’s internationally renowned research university, growing tech scene, and oximity to Mexico provide a dynamic environment for business and personal growth. I see many opportunities here and look forward to collaborating with our business, civic, healthcare, and university leaders to nsure we continue our traditions and trajectory that make he region so attractive.
Banner – University Medicine’s non-profit, academic mission was a key reason I chose to come part of this community. I feel we can collectively make an impact across generations in our region. I have already felt the kindness of Tucson, and the fact that it’s a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and its residents are crazy about Arizona sports doesn’t hurt either! My family and I are excited to call Tucson home, and I’m honored to lead our Banner University-Medicine teams as we support the healthcare needs of the region.
As a newcomer to Tucson, what are your initial thoughts about our strengths?
support one another in good times and challenging times, as well. That commitment to unity amplifies Tucson’s many other strengths—excellent healthcare, strong higher education offerings, dedication to the arts, incredible outdoor activities, and more. Leveraging these strengths will benefit our economy by helping to attract and retain a talented workforce, growing businesses and attracting new ones.
How do you hope to lead Banner – University Medicine into the future?
I firmly believe in Banner –University Medicine’s mission as a top non-profit, academic medical center that supports the health and wellness of our families, neighbors, students and friends. In partnership with UA, we educate future physicians, nurses, pharmacists and healthcare professionals, and advance medical science and innovation through research. Part of my role is to champion the vision, inspire our teams, and together create a healthcare system where patients and their loved ones feel cared for at every step.
Tucson’s history, diverse population and size contribute to a unified community. I’ve heard people refer to it as “a big, small town,” and I know Tucsonans come together to
I am committed to fostering an environment that supports our team members and enhances our ability to provide exceptional medical care as seamlessly as possible. To me, exceptional care includes providing clinical excellence in an environment where patients and team members feel seen, heard and respected. There is a culture that prioritizes safety, and whether in one of our hospitals or other care locations, we remain attuned to the needs of one another and our communities.
PHOTO BY CHRIS
MOONEY
SURESH GARIMELLA
PRESIDENT
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
What attributes of this region attracted you here?
Naturally, the first thing that drew me to this region was the University of Arizona. I have long admired the UA and its stature in the state of Arizona and far beyond. The institution possesses the best qualities of a land-grant university, with exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the success of a diverse student population and focused on serving Arizona every day through the application of research. I have since spoken to many university community members and supporters, and it’s clear to me how much people care about our success. There are tremendous opportunities ahead of us, and I’m looking forward to working with our local community to build upon our strengths as an institution and continue to excel for the benefit of our community here in Tucson and across the world. Of course, Southern Arizona is beautiful, with a rich history and culture that make it a wonderful place to call home.
As a newcomer to Tucson, what are your initial thoughts about our strengths?
partners, such as the Center for Quantum Networks, a national consortium led by our College of Optical Sciences; the Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction, which our health sciences division launched with Oklahoma State; and The France-Arizona Institute for Global Grand Challenges, a groundbreaking partnership with France’s national research agency. Through all of this, I’ve seen the passion of the people who live and work here, which I consider one of Tucson’s greatest strengths. On top of all this, Tucson is rightly named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
How do you hope to strengthen research and enterprise at the University of Arizona?
I have seen so much. On my first day, I got a tour of the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab where we make the world’s largest mirrors for the world’s largest telescopes. In my third week, I experienced my first UA Homecoming and the unique Bear Down spirit that permeates our community. I have also been learning more about the amazing collaborative efforts between the UA and our
The University of Arizona has an admirable history of discovery, innovation and impact. Every day, I am learning more about the many areas of excellence we have, as well as our existing collaborations with local industry. What I’ve seen so far reveals a strong foundation of bringing research to bear on challenges facing our region and beyond. I’m looking forward to working with our UA faculty, staff, students, and community partners in strengthening this foundation as we continue to connect Arizona businesses and entrepreneurs to our university, provide students opportunities to intern at organizations across the state, and translate worldchanging research into services and products that will uplift our region.
LISA LOVALLO
VICE PRESIDENT & MARKET LEADER (RETIRED) COX COMMUNICATIONS
What’s the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
The one thing that stands out is that Sun Corridor has survived and thrived! Twenty years of economic development impact is a significant milestone! Hoping for at least 20 more.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
Cox is involved in Sun Corridor because we are committed to this region and the city of Tucson. Our business success is tied to the strength of our local economy. The more successful Sun Corridor is, the more people Cox can hire, the more infrastructure we can build and the more community investment we can make.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
Going forward, I see four opportunities for our region. We need to find a solution for the lack of affordable childcare in our community. We need the University of Arizona to lean in more to help our local economy thrive. We need our business organizations to find new ways to collaborate so we can speak with one voice and be more effective at public policy advocacy. We need to ensure that our healthcare system has the doctors and nurses needed to take care of all of us. These challenges will require a community effort and creative solutions.
PHOTO BY CHRIS
Biz
MOONEY
ERIC MAJCHRZAK
CEO
BEACHFLEISCHMAN PC
What is the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc.
over its 20 years?
One major stand-out success for Sun Corridor over its 20-year history is its effective role in driving economic transformation for Southern Arizona by attracting diverse industries and high-quality jobs. Through strategic initiatives in sectors like aerospace, healthcare, logistics, and technology, Sun Corridor has played a vital role in diversifying and strengthening our regional economy. Our collaborative approach engaging businesses, educational institutions, and local governments has significantly enhanced the region’s economic profile, making it a competitive and attractive destination for investment and talent. Also, Sun Corridor has done a terrific job at building strong relationships with site selectors and highlighting our culture, arts, and climate to attract investment. I am excited to see what the next 20 years will bring!
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
I engage in Sun Corridor to serve our community in a way that creates maximum positive impact. The decisions we make today will affect future generations, so we have an obligation to set them up for success. Seeing the results of Sun Corridor’s efforts has been rewarding, and meeting various stakeholders throughout the community has helped me gain tremendous knowledge and understanding. One of the highlights of my involvement are the new relationships that I have gained. Meeting community leaders, volunteers and other CEOs has only strengthened my commitment to the mission of Sun Corridor.
What is the biggest opportunity for the region?
I believe the biggest opportunity for Tucson and Southern Arizona lies in expanding its thriving aerospace, smart technology, and mining technology sectors. With established infrastructure and partnerships with educational institutions, the region is well-positioned to attract high-tech industries, supporting longterm job growth and economic resilience. We must continue to expand the availability of large industrial sites, specialized workforce programs, and major logistics routes that access Mexico, California, and Texas. This will further enhance Tucson’s appeal to investors inside and outside of Arizona. This growth potential offers a solid foundation for building a technology-driven, sustainable economy that leverages regional assets and advances quality of life. Our future is bright!
PHOTO BY CHRIS
MOONEY
FLETCHER
Mc CUSKER
CEO
UAVENTURE CAPITAL
What
is
the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
The recruitment of Caterpillar to Tucson. We were heads up against Denver, and Illinois-based CAT employees preferred ice fishing and skiing. We made it irresistible with Rio Nuevo incentives and won the kind of competition we are not known for. The economic impact is over $2 billion.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
To help our region grow with and to improve Tucson’s reputation on an international scale.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
Coordinated efforts-county, city, state, other regional cities, Rio Nuevo, private sector, chambers of commerce must speak with one voice. If we can pull that off, we have the potential to be a mega-region with significant cross border trade and two ports: Port of Tucson and Port of Guaymas, connected by rail and I-10.
BY CHRIS
PHOTO
MOONEY
IAN Mc DOWELL
VICE PRESIDENT & REGIONAL DIRECTOR TUCSON
SUNDT
CONSTRUCTION INC.
What is the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
Sun Corridor has been an epicenter for collaboration in this community. I have seen this in community efforts to recruit and retain local employers, to attract potential businesses, and in bolstering awareness of our region’s strengths. I think the collaboration between Sun Corridor, the State of Arizona, the City of Tucson, and Pima County in the recruitment and onboarding of Caterpillar for their Tucson Mining Center was an outstanding example of bringing regional partners together.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
We all work for our individual businesses during the majority of our day. Sun Corridor gives me an opportunity to participate in improving our community in a tangible way with a broad group of leaders. I enjoy the fact that a diverse group of businesses from organizations that include healthcare, government, defense, local utilities, education, biotechnology and construction (to name a few) all band together to help in creating economic success for everyone in the region. When we all get in the same boat and row in the same direction, good things tend to happen.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
Continued collaboration. Finding ways to demonstrate our commitment to each other attracts businesses to Southern Arizona and helps create job growth and stability. Things like the re-authorization of the RTA shows that we act as a region to improve our communities, which helps not only our existing organizations and businesses but also catches the notice of businesses who are considering relocation.
BY
PHOTO
CHRIS MOONEY
What is the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20
years?
Sun Corridor Inc.’s dedication to regional prosperity is truly impressive. Of all the significant achievements over its 20-years history, what stands out to me is the remarkable economic development of the Tucson region. By promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors, Sun Corridor Inc. has succeeded at job creation and impressive economic growth. The focus on key strategic initiatives has diversified the local economy and enhanced the quality of life for all residents. This success is evident in the thriving business environment of the communities that it represents and the growing infrastructure to support regional commerce.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
Bombardier, formerly known as Learjet until its acquisition in 1990, has a notable history in Tucson, Arizona. The Bombardier Tucson service center for Learjet, Challenger, and Global aircraft provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. The presence of Bombardier’s service center in Tucson has contributed to the local economy by providing jobs and supporting the aviation industry in the region. Sun Corridor Inc. plays a key role in supporting Bombardier to maintain the high standards of service and support that our customers expect. Being part of Sun Corridor Inc. enables us to contribute to building a thriving region that supports our business initiatives.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
The biggest economic opportunity for the Tucson region lies in its growing technology and innovation sector. By leveraging its strengths, Tucson can drive economic growth, create high-quality jobs, and establish itself as a leader in technological innovation. The University of Arizona provides a strong foundation in research and development. There is a solid aerospace presence supported by technical schools. A healthy biosciences sector, and an ever-growing renewable energy sector, all provide stimulus for the region’s future. Being located near the U.S.-Mexico border also enhances its potential as a logistics and trade hub. By leveraging its strengths, Sun Corridor Inc. can drive economic growth, create high-quality jobs, and support the region in establishing itself as a leader in technological innovation.
MARCO MELANÇON GENERAL MANAGER BOMBARDIER AVIATION
JENNIFER MENDRZYCKI
PRESIDENT & CEO
TMC HEALTH
What is the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor
Inc. over its 20 years?
Sun Corridor’s impact extends far beyond the traditional metrics for economic development. Sun Corridor has long recognized that its success is intricately tied to the health and vitality of the legacy businesses and the people who call Southern Arizona home. Throughout its history, Sun Corridor has led efforts around healthcare to promote flu vaccinations, get people enrolled in Medicaid, and now the organization is turning its focus to addressing the critical shortage of physicians to meet the needs of our growing and aging community. This understanding of the interconnectedness of business and personal vitality is unique and a defining part of Sun Corridor’s success.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
As CEO of TMC Health, I am guided by a mission to provide exceptional health care with compassion –and as a nonprofit health system, that extends beyond the walls of our hospitals and clinics. To make our community healthier, we rely on a strong and growing business community to create jobs, innovate and help us grow as a community.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
The biggest opportunity for the region is to come together - from Marana to Douglas, from Willcox to Ajo, from Tanque Verde Valley to Nogales. I am relatively new to the region, but have been told that Southern Arizona’s magic comes from our ability to work together for the common good and shared progress. Our opportunity is to work together to grow together – and when we do that, we will all be more successful.
BY
PHOTO
CHRIS MOONEY
What
is the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
Based on what I have learned, what really stands out is Sun Corridor Inc.’s ability to cast a vision, unify the stakeholders, and then set actions in motion to bring that vision to fruition. Sun Corridor had the vision of expanding OEM and tier 1 industries in our region, such as advanced manufacturing and aerospace and defense. This vision and direction was a key factor behind Pima Community College’s Centers of Excellence initiative at the college, and we built and now operate one of the largest advanced manufacturing education and training centers and aviation technology centers in the greater American Southwest to support Sun Corridor’s attraction and expansion efforts in these industries, and have already seen mutual success. We at Pima CC will build upon these successes to ensure more of our learners attain quality jobs as a result of Sun Corridor Inc.’s efforts, and that we do our part to help Sun Corridor Inc. bring these jobs to our community.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
Essential to the success of Pima CC is fulfilling our vision: “As a premier community college, Pima Community College will be a catalyst for personal transformation, economic growth, and cultural prosperity that enriches our diverse community.” Supporting the strategy and work of Sun Corridor Inc. helps us fulfill this vision to ensure that we develop and strengthen the education and training programs that align to key industries, and that our learners attain the high-quality jobs that come about by growing and supporting these industries. We want the very best for our learners and our community, and this connectedness of education and economic development helps us do more to break the cycle of generational poverty, provide new opportunities to our students, and strengthen our region.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
It’s really hard to choose one “biggest” opportunity because there is so much potential in all of the business attraction and expansion opportunities that continue to come our direction. If I really have to choose one, I would choose an alignment of focus in our economic development priorities and efforts. We have so much to offer in our region, and with increased alignment, we only strengthen our opportunities to focus our institutions, resources, and expertise to those opportunities that will yield the greatest economic development outcomes for the region.
JEFFREY NASSE CHANCELLOR
PIMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ALICIA NUÑEZ
PRESIDENT & CEO
CHICANOS POR LA CAUSA
What
is the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
Sun Corridor Inc.’s collaborative and inclusive approach cultivated a competitive, attractive environment for growing industries in aviation, healthcare, technology, logistics, and many more to thrive in Southern Arizona. Over the last 20 years, Sun Corridor Inc.’s strong brand and strategic investments leveraged a longstanding relationship with Mexico to further support the economic vitality of the region.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
Chicanos Por La Causa and Sun Corridor align in the mission to drive economic empowerment in our communities. When businesses and economy thrive in an area, so do the opportunities for health, education, and housing. Our entire state feels the positive impact when cities along our borders and Southern cities have strong economic opportunities flourish. Our efforts together have been comprehensive to target these needs.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
Southern Arizona’s proximity to Mexico, United States’ largest trading partner, uniquely positions the region with rich cultural roots and geographic strengths. Southern Arizona and Northern Mexico working together as a region is a distinguishing characteristic that cannot be found anywhere which is optimal for job creation, workforce growth and sustainability for longterm economic success.
What
is the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor
Inc. over its 20 years?
Tucson has always been an incredible place to live and work, leading to tremendous growth over the past 20 years. The Tucson community and surrounding region has become a prime destination for young professionals, small businesses, start-up companies, innovation, industry, and technology. Tucson is where people can bring their ideas and bring them to life in a community where public and private entities thrive together alongside academic and nonprofit partners. The vitality of our region coupled with Sun Corridor’s vision to foster collaboration across a broad range of interests has paved the way for this growth and continued economic success for years to come.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
Morris Air National Guard Base has been a part of the Tucson community since 1956 and like our community, has experienced significant growth. Growing from a flying operation with a dirt floor hangar, Morris is home to more than 1,800 military members trained and ready to project combat power anywhere in the world while also training the world’s greatest F-16 pilots for the United States and its allies. Our base has come to be known across the Air Force as the “small base with a big impact” and we couldn’t make such a great impact without the support of and in partnership with our tremendous community partnerships. The members of the 162d Wing are proud to call Tucson home and proud to support our neighbors, local businesses, and organizations. As a native Tucsonan, I am involved with Sun Corridor because I am committed to seeing this community that I am so proud of thrive and our economy prosper.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
Tucson is a welcoming community with top-notch institutions collaborating to leverage our collective workforce, creativity, and innovation. As leaders, it is our task to leverage the strengths of our natural resources, growing businesses, and highly skilled individuals to position our community to navigate the challenges of today and tomorrow while readying ourselves to capitalize on future opportunities that may present themselves. Our biggest opportunity comes from sustaining our current momentum toward improving upon the current environment of collaboration and partnership that creates and sustains jobs, growth, and innovation while meeting the needs of individuals and families looking to make Tucson their forever home.
MAYOR
CITY OF TUCSON
What’s the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc.
over its 20 years?
Bringing American Battery Factory to our region is an example of what is possible when we come together to reimagine the clean energy economy. Many years from now, when we look back at the global race to develop the clean technologies of the future, people will look to the Sonoran Desert. We know that Tucson is a hub for innovation and resiliency. Through Sun Corridor, we have been able to convene our regional partners to create the environment, the infrastructure and the community values to anchor Tucson and Pima County as leaders in new EV technology and energy storage.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
Sun Corridor is an essential economic driver in Southern Arizona contributing billions in economic activity and powering job creation. As mayor of Tucson and a member of the Chairman’s Circle, regional collaboration is so important to me. Through Sun Corridor, I get to collaborate with regional leaders and participate in trade missions across the country, and Mexico, welcoming CEOs and their companies. When we collaborate, it makes us more effective. Making sure we are on the same page makes Tucson more competitive and gives our region an advantage.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
There is so much economic opportunity around the green economy and Arizona’s geographic proximity to Mexico. Tucson has emerged as a national leader in climate resilience thanks to our Climate Action Plan, Tucson Resilient Together. We are leveraging millions in federal dollars, and in collaboration with Sun Corridor, we have positioned Southern Arizona as a hub for clean energy in the Southwest. Mexico is Arizona’s biggest trade partner. Together, we are a part of each other’s story. This year I visited Mexico City as part of several visits to build on Arizona’s relationship with Mexico as our biggest trade partner. We must continue to find opportunities to leverage Tucson’s proximity as the largest border city to Mexico to grow our manufacturing, logistics and transportation clusters.
PHOTO BY CHRIS MOONEY
What
is the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its
20 years?
The representation of so many important parts of our community within its membership makes me extremely proud to be part of Sun Corridor. Academia, business, government, healthcare and social services are all included in our membership. Each member knows that we can achieve so much more on behalf of our region by working in partnership. The broad-based commitment to collaboration and regionalism evident in the diverse composition of our membership sends a strong message to site selectors and others who want to expand or locate their business in Southern Arizona. It also gives them a powerful sense of all the entities that will contribute to the outstanding quality of life their employees will enjoy when this is their home.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
Pima County has a longstanding partnership with Sun Corridor and its members since its inception. We are proud to be substantial financial supporters of the work of the organization. Recent changes made by the board of supervisors to the county’s Economic Development Strategic Plan enhanced its regional focus and will make the county, cities and towns more competitive for federal grants in support of each jurisdiction’s economic development efforts. Striving alongside Sun Corridor and our municipal partners to bring more major employers to our region is just one way that Pima County fulfills its leadership role in growing our local economy.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
It is an honor to represent Pima County on the ninemember Regional Transportation Authority Board. My colleagues include the mayors of our five cities and towns, the chairs of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and the Tohono O’odham Nation and the governor’s Southern Arizona representative to the Arizona State Transportation Board. We recently voted to send a draft RTA Next plan out for public review with the intent to have voters consider its adoption next year. It is vital that we have an RTA Next plan in place to cover the next 20year period. The implications for our regional transportation infrastructure and economic development efforts if we fail to put a new plan in place would be disastrous.
COOPER SUTHERLAND
VP
ACQUISITIONS & DEVELOPMENT
SCHNITZER PROPERTIES
What’s the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
Sun Corridor has mastered the ability to create a synergistic effect between state agencies, local municipalities, and the private sector as opposed to the more divisive and antagonistic relationships between the private and public sectors that we see in most locations in our portfolio. The ability to draw private sector business and investments into Tucson has clearly been a success and as Arizona continues to be a major relocation destination for Americans and the international community that capability will continue to be critical.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
My involvement in Sun Corridor Inc. stems from a desire to improve the Tucson community as a whole, not only from a quality of life by providing efficient & reliable real estate solutions for businesses but also ensure that the appropriate drivers are in place that benefit all Tucsonans.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
The biggest opportunities for the region lie in Arizona being the direct beneficiary of the CHIPS act and the massive amount of investment that is committed to Arizona for the next five to 10 years. Arizona is no longer seen as a second-tier market, but due to the diversification of businesses operating in the state, has been escalated to a tier 1 market which has just happened since the Great Recession. The re-shoring of businesses has benefited Arizona, not only due to direct investment but also increased trade with Mexico which significantly impacts Tucson. Sun Corridor is in a unique position to continue to drive growth, in conjunction with the public sector and private investment, as Arizona continues its exponential growth into the foreseeable future.
PHOTO BY CHRIS
MOONEY
What is the one thing that stands out to you as a success for Sun Corridor Inc. over its 20 years?
Sun Corridor has been instrumental in Southern Arizona’s rapid economic growth. With Sun Corridor’s targeted approach, Southern Arizona has become a magnet for high-tech industries including bioscience and health care, batteries, technology and more. Sun Corridor and partners have attracted industry leaders such as Sion Power, American Battery Factory, Ascent Aviation Services, BD and more. In addition, Southern Arizona’s leadership in aerospace and defense continues to grow with global leaders including Raytheon, Honeywell Aerospace and Meggitt.
Why are you involved in Sun Corridor Inc?
To advance Arizona’s economy, it’s vital we work closely with all of our partners across the state, including those in Southern Arizona. We’re grateful for our valued partnership with Sun Corridor to collaborate with them on exciting projects in Tucson, Marana, Sahuarita and more. In partnership with Sun Corridor, we are able to identify and successfully win projects with companies that are investing in Southern Arizona communities and creating quality jobs. We look forward to continuing to work with Sun Corridor to advance Southern Arizona’s economy and create more opportunities for Arizonans.
What’s the biggest opportunity for the region?
Southern Arizona has many exciting opportunities – we’re continuing to see lots of activity taking place in the aerospace and defense, battery, bioscience, and technology industries. In addition, the region’s startup and innovation ecosystem, which includes Tech Parks Arizona and Startup Tucson, as well as startup programs at the University of Arizona, showcase the region’s attractiveness as a magnet for innovation and new technologies. In addition, the region’s technology workforce continues to grow to support the rapid economic activity and technology companies.
SANDRA WATSON
PRESIDENT & CEO
ARIZONA COMMERCE AUTHORITY
Raytheon, an RTX Company
Jean-Claude Bernard Manager, Global Expansion
Medicaid Executive Director Arizona Complete Health
Rafael Barcelo Durazó Head Consul Consulate of Mexico in Tucson
Jenny Flynn President & CEO Community Foundation for Southern Arizona
World View Space
Bank of America Tucson
Mike Groeger
Chief Executive Officer El Rio Health
Hughes Federal Credit Union
Counselor & Executive Advisor, Vice
& Community Engagement
John Winchester Director Government
Arizona State University
2025 RANKINGS & ACCOLADES
Tucson Listed No. 15 Up and Coming Market for Tech Talent
Tucson ranks No. 13 on CBRE’s list of up-and-coming North American tech-talent markets in the annual Scoring Tech Talent report, which ranks 75 U.S. and Canadian markets according to their ability to attract and grow tech talent. Tucson’s local tech employment has grown by 3% in the past five years and its tech wages have increased by 13%. CBRE also noted Tucson’s total tech talent employment of 16,970, increased by 3% from 2017 to 2022; its average tech wage of $87,206, grew by 13% since 2017; Tucson’s average software developer wage of $110,530 has grown by 26.1% since 2017, and Tucson generated 1,269 tech talent degree graduates in 2021.
Tucson Named a Top U.S. City in West for Gen Z in 2024
Tucson ranked No. 8 among the country’s top cities for Gen Z with a total of 57.7 points while also placing No. 1 regionally. The ranking on Commercialcafe.com showed12.1% of Tucson’s residents are Gen Zers aged 20-24, the largest share of this age cohort among the cities compared for this ranking. As many as 46.9% of Tucson’s adult Gen Zers are enrolled in some form of education, with the No. 8 city ranking for this metric
among all cities analyzed. Tucson came in No. 3 among the West’s top cities for Gen Z for its share of the population aged 20 to 24 enrolled in a form of education as of 2022.
World’s Best Cities List Ranks Tucson No. 37
The city was listed No. 37 among the 100 top performing cities in the world with a metro population of a million people or more by worldsbestcities.com. The report noted Tucson’s distinction as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, its James Beard Award-winning chefs, dynamic culture and stunning mountain landscapes as reasons for its ranking. It also credited the region’s bold leadership.
Frommer’s Includes Tucson Among Best Places to Go in 2025
Continuing the legacy of founder Arthur Frommer (1929–2024), Frommer’s renewed its commitment to transformative journeys that unite people across borders and oceans with the brand’s list of the Best Places to Go in 2025. The venerable list lauded Tucson as “ turning 250 with Southwestern flair and culinary events coinciding with hitting a decade as the USA’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy
