SPECIAL REPORT 2013
THE REGION’S BUSINESS MAGAZINE
NEW HORIZONS Accelerating Economic Growth
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 65
66 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 67
68 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 69
Photo: BalfourWalker.com
New for Economic
As more stable signs of economic recovery slowly emerge, Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities is poised to embrace the dawn of a new day, with laser-focused strategies to energize the region with a singular goal of prosperity. With each of the local mayors now at the TREO table and with recent success in attracting new companies to Tucson, economic development leaders are creating a unified, region-wide plan of attack, with the goal of drawing high-wage jobs to the community. This unified effort was not easy to achieve in past years. “In the past, we tended to think myopically here,’’ said Joe Snell, TREO president and CEO. “We tended to think within jurisdictional boundaries. There’s so much demonstrated evidence that fractured communities don’t win and we were too fractured for too long.”
70 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
In its eighth year, TREO recently restructured financially, now with 75 percent private sector funding. The remaining 25 percent of its operating budget comes from Pima County. This is a major shift from its roots eight years ago when the organization was nearly 100 percent publicly funded. The mayors of cities and towns in the region are now at the table, without providing financial support that was previously required. Instead, local jurisdictions are being asked to invest in economic development in other ways, including new incentive programs and other job creation tools. “Taking a regional approach will assure that everybody wins and it doesn’t matter what jurisdiction a particular company decides to locate in,’’ said Sharon Bronson, vice chair of the Pima County Board of Supervisors and a member of TREO’s executive committee.
“We all benefit,” she said. “Those folks who move here, those folks who work for those companies, they spend money across the region. We’ve got to stop playing parochial politics because that makes it very difficult for us to compete on a national level and on an international level.” The county’s position as the only public entity funding TREO makes sense because all Pima County taxpayers are represented. No city residents are ponying up twice. Oro Valley Mayor Satish Hiremath said the restructuring frees up TREO staff to concentrate on its central mission instead of spending time focusing on individual municipalities. It’s saying “we’re not trying to cannibalize – let’s try to specialize,” Hiremath said. “They’re tasked to go out and convince companies to relocate to the Tucson area. They’re the only organization in the entire region that actually does
www.BizTucson.com
BizPROGRESS TREO Chairman’s Circle members from left – Michael M. Crow, Fletcher McCusker, Sandra Watson, Suzanne L. Miles, Sharon Bronson, James K. Beckmann, Ann Weaver Hart, Paul Bonavia, Joe Snell, Wendell Long, Lisa Lovallo, Stephen G. Eggen, Judy Rich, Daniel Alcombright, Mara Aspinall, Karen Mlawsky and Jim Click.
Horizons Development By Eric Swedlund
that intentionally,” Hiremath said. “A lot of their time was geared to trying to appease these municipalities that contributed a certain amount of money and justify to them their contributions.” Snell said that in order to be effective, regionalism must be truly embraced, not simply given lip service. “We have got to walk that walk and have it embedded into everything we do, using all of our resources to solve the issues and being unified in a goal. That will produce success,” he said. “As a regional community, as a metropolitan community, we need to adopt and embrace a brand new approach regarding economic development,’’ Snell added. “We need to be working with the intent of how we can rather than why we cannot.” The past fiscal year saw TREO’s efforts bring in 2,207 direct new jobs, working on 15 projects that have a combined total economic impact of
www.BizTucson.com
$376.7 million. In addition to bringing in new jobs, TREO assisted existing companies – like Bombardier, Schletter and Bruker Nano – to expand. “That is up considerably, the highest point since we went into the recession,’’ Snell said of the numbers. “This region has experienced some significant wins.’’ Most recently TREO worked to secure four major companies – Accelr8 Technology Corporation (bioscience), Aris Integration (building and construction), American Tire Distributors (transportation and logistics) and Integrated Technologies Group (aerospace & defense). “We just need to point to Accelr8 as an example of how this region came together to solve an issue and ask a question of how we can,” Snell said. “We didn’t have the specific real estate fit, we didn’t have the wet lab space that fit this company,’’ he said. “The
first thing maybe in years past would have been to say ‘Well, it doesn’t fit, we don’t have it.’ Instead, government, the private sector, the academic sector, everybody got creative to come up with a solution and we ended up winning the prize.” Securing more economic prizes for the region will depend on maintaining a positive trajectory and being aggressive. “When something like Accelr8 happens, we want to shout as loud as we can, to as many people as we can, not only that Tucson won the prize, but why that company chose us,’’ Snell said. “Companies are influenced greatly by what they read. Everybody likes to pick a winner.” He said folks in business circles start talking when they read about a company like Accelr8 picking up and moving continued on page 72 >>> Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 71
continued from page 71 velopment, bringing improved cooperation between private and public sectors. They understand the boost that quality to Tucson – “Hey, what are we missing? What are people seejobs provide to a community. “When we recruit people, acing about Tucson that we haven’t seen?” companying partners and family members are also relocat Ron Shoopman, president of Southern Arizona Leadering,” said TREO Board Chairman Stephen G. Eggen, CFO ship Council, said companies look at all aspects of a commuof Raytheon Missile Systems. nity when they decide where to locate, attracted by a spirit of “If we can have more high-skilled and high-paying jobs cooperation. in the region that really helps with our efforts,” Eggen said. “We’re working together better than at any time in our his“When you get more high-tech businesses it creates a better tory,” Shoopman said. “TREO is focusing on its unique purbase for the community and you start to get into an interpose and role, and SALC and Tucson Metro Chamber and change of talent.” the other business groups are doing the same. Lisa Lovallo, TREO board secretary/treasurer, said the “We’re all working to make sure our missions are differentiboard is fortunate to have experts in “almost every field imagated and that we’re not duplicating efforts,” he said. “That’s inable.” It’s the commitment of those thought leaders that an important aspect of this effort to be not only regional but results in great accomplishments, she said. to be synchronized as we create a more prosperous future.” “There is very little this group has not seen or experienced Tucson has long been dependant on sunshine to bring prosin business, policy or economic development,” said Lovallo, perity to the community. That is no longer sufficient, Snell Market VP for Southern Arizona at Cox Communications. said. “Publicizing the recent TREO efforts to attract new busi “For the last 30 years, our economic plan and our comnesses to the region is critical,’’ Lovallo said. “When TREO munity development plan has been pointing to the sky at that convinces a new business to come into our community, the big yellow ball and saying ‘They will come and we will build job is only half done. The second part of the mission is to them homes.’ That will not work in the future,’’ Snell said. make sure that constituencies “We have to go earn it and we inside and outside of the region have to be smart how we do it.” know about the positive news. In TREO’s view, the top priTREO Performance 2005-2012 “When the community sees orities in the region for the comnew business and investment Total New Jobs Supported* 17,125 ing year will be to accelerate the coming into the region, they will pace of economic recovery, imCapital Investment $754.1 million work even harder to create a prove the region’s infrastructure Total Economic Impact $2.4 billion climate conducive to economic – roads in particular – and to Successful Projects 61 companies growth,’’ she added. “When solve issues and problems with a new companies come into the * Direct and Indirect unified approach. region, others will follow.” “If we can accomplish those Another area critical in the rethree things, we can become an One Year – July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012 gion’s success is prioritizing how economic juggernaut, but our to spend the limited tax dollars. Total New Jobs Supported* 3,180 failure to address any of those “We’re not a huge city. Phoe Direct New Jobs 2,207 three will act as an anchor,” nix can spread out a lot of deciCapital Investment $68.7 million Snell said. sions over critical mass,” Snell TREO is focusing its efforts Total Economic Impact $376.7 million said. “We really have to make on drawing high-tech diagnosSuccessful Projects 15 companies it count every time we spend tics companies to Tucson, in * Direct and Indirect public resources. We have to do addition to other targeted insome hard analysis and look at Source: TREO 2012 dustries. (See related story, page the long term before we invest 125). in anything. Is it strategic? Is it In the heart of the recession, going to have a regional context TREO focused its resources on for us? Are we going to get a return out of this investment? marketing Tucson as a business hub, working to create brand Too often in Tucson’s history we haven’t applied that litmus awareness to capitalize on companies’ expansion during ecotest.” nomic recovery. Tucson’s ability as a metropolitan community to create a The Tucson region competes very well against California new narrative around the development of our economy will because of its tax structure. TREO is also increasing its efdictate our future success, Snell said. forts to attract direct foreign investment, specifically empha “The reality is Tucson is known for many things – a great sizing on selling a one-market opportunity with Sonora. place for golf, a great place for winter visitors, a great place “TREO has the top leadership of academia, the local mayfor tourism. But we’re not seen as one of the leading business ors and the private sector leaders at one table,” Snell said. “If centers in the U.S. And we have a pretty good story to tell. any one individual thinks they can solve these massive issues “We have got some critical mass of success with biotech on their own, they’re mistaken. It’s going to take the comcompanies, with aerospace companies,’’ Snell added. “We bined effort of a lot of smart people working very hard to put feel it’s really important to continue to put that story out there us in a position to win.” that it’s not just a place you can come for 350 days of sun TREO board members, who are busy with their own comshine – it’s a place you come for a career.” panies, are willing to devote time and energy to economic deBiz 72 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com
BizSUCCESS
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 73
74 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com
Building on Our Strengths By Romi Carrell Wittman It’s the question on everyone’s mind: How do we grow Tucson’s economic base? “A growing economic base ensures a healthy and vibrant community that is a good place for companies like ours to do business,” said Stephen G. Eggen, CFO at Raytheon Missile Systems. As chair of the TREO board of directors, Eggen has a list of the top three issues he sees as priorities in growing the region’s economic base. On his list – the need to support existing high-tech businesses, ensuring that operational issues are being addressed and that no local barriers limit them from maintaining and growing their operations, the need to attract more high-tech businesses, and finally, the need to think like a region rather than individual communities when it comes to economic development. “We need more businesses that export goods and services outside Arizona and provide local revenues through payroll spending and spending with local suppliers,” he said. “If we’re going to attract more high-tech business, we have to leverage the strengths of the entire region.” Eggen has long been a vocal supporter of TREO. “TREO has been instrumental in working with the city, the county and the business community to create and implement a long-term economic development vision and plan for Tucson,” he said. “We need that kind of leadership, alignment and collaboration to ensure these efforts are successful.” www.BizTucson.com
He believes Southern Arizona has many assets – and obstacles. “We are fortunate to have a university system that is not only an excellent source of talent, but is also a strong collaborator and research partner for many companies in the region,” he said. Also in the plus column he cites a great climate, beautiful outdoors and a family-friendly community as features that make Tucson attractive. “It has a unique history and cultural heritage that make it a special place to live.” Progress in revitalizing downtown Tucson benefits the region as well. But Tucson also faces major challenges. “Funding for education continues to be a challenge, particularly as the state works to implement muchneeded reform in the K-12 system,” Eggen said. Key to our success will be the ability of government, business and community groups to work together to attract and grow business in the region, Eggen added. Looking to 2013, Eggen said that while uncertain times lay ahead for the aerospace & defense industry, he’s optimistic about Raytheon’s future. “While we are awaiting U.S. Department of Defense guidance on the specific impact to our business, Raytheon is well positioned to weather the ups and downs. We continue to execute well on our existing contracts, and we are actively winning new business.”
PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
TREO CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Stephen G. Eggen CFO, Raytheon Missile Systems
Biz Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 75
76 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com
TREO VICE CHAIR
Building Intellectual Assets By Gabrielle Fimbres
www.BizTucson.com
“We have companies and universities continuing to lead the way in many disciplines, setting us apart from other areas looking to attract the same jobs,” Gunther said. “We need to confront the challenge we continue to face, but embracing the positives will become infectious and help us grow.” Gunther said CenturyLink invests in economic development to achieve company goals – connecting with communities, improving lives and strengthening businesses. “We do this through advanced technologies and the service of our local teams and we benefit from both businesses and individuals who move here and need our service,” Gunther said. “TREO does the exact same thing by promoting the assets of our region and creating value for the companies who need the incentives coordination to decide on a new location or to open a new facility. TREO is the connective tissue in our region.’’ Gunther said his industry is experiencing dramatic change. “It’s not just about voice and data services anymore – it’s more about how people use these services to improve their lives and grow their businesses. We are addressing this change by investing in faster internet, cloud computing, IT services, advanced video and value added applications. “Like TREO, we believe our link to the future is the degree to which we combine infrastructure, ideas and opportunity,” Gunther said. Biz
Guy Gunther VP & GM Tucson & Greater Arizona, CenturyLink PHOTO: CARTER ALLEN
Our greatest strength is our people. Guy Gunther, VP and GM of Tucson and Greater Arizona at CenturyLink, said the region’s residents “embody the true spirit of the West and all of the energy, hard work and innovation that represents. “Southern Arizonans are building the intellectual assets across several key industries,’’ said Gunther, TREO vice chair. “We also talk about our geography, but the real asset here is the role we will play in linking the country – and the world – through our relationships with Sonora, Mexico and the entire Arizona Sun Corridor. The challenge will continue to be the linkage and coordination.’’ Gunther sees strong collaboration as critical to economic growth. “At TREO, we have companies that actually compete against each other in the market place, but we have recognized that we have to come together with one voice in order to foster growth. We need the same spirit across the diverse interest groups in Southern Arizona.’’ He also stresses the importance of keeping it local. “We need to support local businesses, we need to invest in our local communities and we need to develop mentoring programs that keep graduates in Southern Arizona,” Gunther said. Celebrating our accomplishments is also critical in encouraging economic success, he said.
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 77
TREO SECRETARY/TREASURER PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
TREO Blueprint a Roadmap to Prosperity By Romi Carrell Wittman
Lisa Lovallo Market VP, Southern Arizona Cox Communications
78 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
Lisa Lovallo has long been a booster of Tucson and its local culture and heritage. She’s deeply invested in the community and works tirelessly to better it. Like other local leaders, Lovallo, Market VP for Southern Arizona at Cox Communications, sees three priorities with regard to growing Tucson’s economic base – the need to create more high-skilled, high-wage jobs, the need to create more job opportunities for college graduates so that they stay in the community and, finally, the need to strengthen the education system. Education is an issue that is close to Lovallo’s heart. She believes improving the system will make Tucson more attractive to new business. “More employers, employees and accompanying partners will want to come to Tucson and set down roots,” she said. “We achieve this by recruiting, hiring, developing and retaining the best teachers. Every parent, business owner and citizen must demand this in every classroom.” Lovallo sees TREO as playing an instrumental role in Southern Arizona’s economic development and future success. “TREO’s blueprint for economic development is a roadmap to a future of pros-
perity for our region,” said Lovallo, secretary/treasurer of the TREO board of directors. She is quick to point out Tucson’s many assets – great natural beauty, diversity and quality of life, not to mention a major research university. While Lovallo is one of Tucson’s most ardent champions, she also recognizes its challenges. “We have a struggling education system, poverty, political gridlock,” Lovallo said. All this has led to “a less than stellar national perception of Arizona.” She believes education and high-skilled/high-wage jobs are critical parts of a long-term solution. “We have a world-class public research university in our own backyard,” Lovallo said. “The University of Arizona is accessible, affordable and holds the key to creating a new, dynamic local economy and an educated workforce in Tucson.” Change starts with each one of us, Lovallo added. “Our region’s success is linked to our ability to raise our collective expectations. Great communities have high expectations…I choose to see a future with more college graduates, high wages, lower poverty, more charitable giving and healthier, engaged citizens.”
Biz
www.BizTucson.com
Touting Our Strengths By Romi Carrell Wittman Cooperation is at the heart of building a robust and sustainable economy in Southern Arizona, says Paul Bonavia, chairman and CEO of UNS Energy Corp. and Tucson Electric Power. “Our region must remain focused on our common interests, our combined strength,” added Bonavia, TREO immediate past chair. “When potential employers consider Tucson, they’ll be more interested if businesses, local governments and our educational partners are mutually supportive and united in accelerating economic development.” Bonavia believes Tucson must identify what it has that other cities don’t. “What does our area really have to offer? That’s what we need to focus on.” He points to the University of Arizona Science and Technology Park as one example of Tucson offering something no other city can match. “The Solar Zone is an innovative effort that demonstrates our commitment to renewable energy and the UA’s commitment to innovation.’’ Bonavia said Tucson must be willing to compete. “With TREO leading the way, our businesses, our governments and our community leaders must be willing to show potential employers that Tucson and our other communities are outstanding places to live and work. We have to be willing to tout our strengths.” With the UA and other educational institutions, the region has the potential to build and support a talented workforce, Bonavia said. “TEP is making an effort to be more directly involved in attracting data centers, aerospace companies and businesses in the energy sector to the Tucson area.” www.BizTucson.com
Attracting these firms is challenging, with competition from a host of other cities working to draw them as well. He believes Tucson can be successful by being proactive. To that end, TEP supports Pima County and its effort to strengthen Tucson’s aerospace & defense corridor around Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and Raytheon Missile Systems. UNS and TEP are intensely focused on the community, Bonavia added. “Our employees and our customers are right here. We rise and fall with the community and that’s why economic development is so important to the entire region.” He sees TREO’s role as critical in building a strong economy. “It’s the one entity in our region dedicated to identifying development opportunities for Southern Arizona. It brings together divergent interests and entities and helps Tucson and the region to put its best foot forward.” Looking ahead in his industry, Bonavia sees a continued focus on environmental issues, including cost-effective renewable energy and energy efficiency. “In order for TEP to meet environmental public policy objectives – including integrating sustainable resources – investments in improving our system become even more imperative to our mission of providing affordable, reliable and safe electric service to our customers,” he said. “TEP’s investments in our system and sustainable resources will provide opportunities for our community. They will assist in both job creation and help TEP maintain very attractive and competitive electric rates.”
PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
TREO IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
Paul Bonavia Chairman & CEO, UNS Energy Corp. and Tucson Electric Power
Biz Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 79
TREO LEADERSHIP
At the Helm Q&A with Joe Snell By Eric Swedlund
your perspective, is the Q: From economy getting better? seeing more stable business A: We’re growth month to month, so that’s a good sign. Currently, the unemployment rate is at 7 percent in the Tucson region, down from a high of nearly 10 percent in 2009. The latest data also show that our region is recovering faster than both the U.S. and state and we are tracking similarly to Phoenix. I do believe we are seeing a recovery. Our ability to invest in the things that make us more competitive will dictate the speed and strength of our recovery. will it take to amplify Q: What this economic recovery? its part, TREO will continue to be A: For aggressive and laser focused with our programs and initiatives. We will continue our national marketing campaign, pursue targeted companies in key industries via multiple sales channels and work hard to grow our own. We will support education initiatives that strengthen our ability to provide a talented workforce to grow higher-wage jobs, work to ensure we keep our costs competitive and help our elected leaders set the right investment priorities with our limited public dollars.
Joe Snell
are the key drivers for Q: What businesses looking to relocate
President & CEO TREO
80 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
or expand and how is Tucson positioned in those areas?
top criterion for any business is A: The workforce supply – do we have the talent
needed to run the business successfully? Second is our ability to attract workforce. This means a strong K-12 education system, a vibrant downtown and urban core, and good healthcare. www.BizTucson.com
How does a focus on reQ: gional cooperation with regard to economic development strengthen the Tucson area’s competitive position?
A: Companies choose to expand or
relocate into markets, not jurisdictions. Communities must position and marshal all assets to win. TREO creates a single point of contact and presents market opportunities to qualified companies.
Q:
What advantages come with TREO’s shift to more private rather than public support?
A: The biggest misconception with
our recent shift to private dollars to support the bulk of TREO’s efforts is that we don’t need public investment in economic development. As a community we do need the public sector to be invested in a better economy. Given the need to work smarter and be
www.BizTucson.com
more aggressive, we concluded that TREO would rely heavily on the private sector for operational support and encourage the public sector partners to use the funds previously given to TREO to support job creation in other ways. does TREO’s focus on Q: How particular industries and
companies benefit the region’s economic growth?
all jobs are the same. HisA: Not torically, we have grown jobs even faster than the nation – but these jobs haven’t been higher wage jobs that combat poverty and help citizens achieve more at higher income levels. Certain industries pay much better than others and we focus on those where we have the assets to compete and which will deliver high-skilled high-wage jobs for Tucsonans. These industries include aerospace & defense, solar and alternative energy, transportation and logistics, and biosciences.
TREO successfully Q: When attracts a new company to Tucson, what leverage does that provide to future recruitment efforts?
A: CEOs
across the country and the world pay attention to growing, thriving markets. They are always thinking about what’s next for their growth plans and what markets can serve their business best. When emerging markets like Tucson begin attracting consistent business investment, they take notice. We have a very strong national marketing and PR program and TREO is already aggressively leveraging these wins through national press, pitching stories to industry publications and advertising. Biz
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 81
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
Early Childhood Education Critical to Economic Success By Romi Carrell Wittman
Daniel Alcombright President & CEO North America SOLON Corp.
82 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
Daniel Alcombright, president and CEO, North America SOLON Corp., is a strong believer in public education, and he knows Southern Arizona needs to step up its game. “We have no early childhood program to speak of in the state,’’ he said. “From a competitiveness standpoint – compared to states like Wisconsin and Minnesota that offer it – it puts us at a disadvantage. It’s wrong from a moral standpoint as well.” He believes that it is critical as a community, a region and a state to make fast and dramatic improvements in early childhood and K-12 education. Education is the single largest factor that will improve our competitiveness as a region now and in the long term, Alcombright said. “If we had great schools and bad roads, people would be OK with the roads,’’ he said. Alcombright, however, is encouraged by Arizona’s university system. “Most of our technical staff come from the University of Arizona and Arizona State University. The public university system here is good at training engineers.” Brain drain remains a significant issue, however. “So many of our youth are exported to other states and regions,” he said. “They go through our education system and they leave and don’t come back to Southern Arizona. Losing that youth, that talent is a real issue for this region.” He also wishes more attention was paid to Tucson’s skilled manufacturing labor pool. “Manufacturing talent is a hidden gem that people don’t
give us enough credit for,” he said. “I look at our manufacturing staff at SOLON and they are world class. I would match them up against staff anywhere in the United States or internationally. In terms of skills, commitment and dedication, they are truly an asset we don’t emphasize enough within the community.” Alcombright believes TREO, its vision of the Arizona Sun Corridor and its ability to bring together different groups is central to the economic development of the region. “The small investment that companies like SOLON make in TREO…it’s really just critical,” he said. “Rising tides float all boats.” Alcombright said 2012 was a tough year for the solar industry and believes 2013 will bring more of the same. Major utilities are on track to meet renewable portfolio standards, meaning there are fewer projects in the pipeline. That, coupled with a crowded field of companies competing for business, makes for a difficult marketplace. Alcombright, however, remains upbeat about SOLON’s future. In March, it was purchased by Microsol and SOLON is now a privately held company, with much of the manufacturing based in Asia. “We have a strong parent company and the flexibility of a private company,” he said. “We have the quickness and nimbleness to be successful. I see the market as difficult, but I see SOLON as being able to compete.”
Biz www.BizTucson.com
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE PHOTO: CHRIS MOONEY
Fueling Innovation Through Economic Development By Romi Carrell Wittman Mara Aspinall has three main priorities when it comes to growing Southern Arizona’s economic base. “Number 1 – build a critical mass of companies in technology-related industries. Number 2 – improve collaboration between government, academia and industry to strengthen our business climate and economic development. Number 3 – continued improvement of our pre-K-12 education system,” said Aspinall, president of Ventana Medical Systems, a member of the Roche group. Aspinall said supporting the region’s economic development will foster a larger talent pool for all local businesses and fuel innovation and technology breakthroughs. She is clear on the role TREO plays in nurturing economic growth. “They provide a unified business voice to support new business creation, expansion and partnership, and they assist in attracting new companies to the region.’’ Aspinall said Tucson has unique, diversified strengths in research, testing, medical labs and hospitals, which provide an ideal foundation for the bioscience industry. She also cites the University of Arizona as a key strength. “We have a strong talent base today, but we need to add to it as we grow our base of companies here,” she said. “Our strong universities are another core asset. They are critical today and will continue to be in the future growth of our intellectual base.” www.BizTucson.com
While Tucson has many assets, there is still much work to be done. “Strong collaborative efforts among many entities are required to fortify business climate and economic development,” Aspinall added. “Another challenge is the need to continue to improve our educational system, which is an essential component of a successful innovation ecosystem.” Looking ahead to 2013, Aspinall said Ventana Medical is poised to continue its exponential growth. “Our mission is to improve the lives of all patients with cancer. The majority are living with cancer longer than they ever have before. As a result, our industry continues to grow aggressively in order to diagnose new patients and to monitor their treatments.” Growing demand for more impactful and targeted treatment is driven by an aging population, healthcare and economic pressures. An influx of new technologies enables Ventana Medical to meet this need by offering innovative tests and treatments, leading the way to personalized healthcare. Cancer treatments will soon be targeted to different groups of patients based on their specific sub-type of cancer. “At Ventana Medical, we are very well positioned to excel in this area globally in 2013 and beyond,’’ Aspinall said.
Mara Aspinall President Ventana Medical Systems A member of the Roche group
Biz Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 83
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
Building a Skilled Workforce Critical to Region’s Health By Romi Carrell Wittman
James K. Beckmann President & CEO Carondelet Health Network
84 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
Attracting and developing a highly qualified workforce is crucial in the healthcare industry and the overall growth of our region, said James K. Beckmann, president and CEO of Carondelet Health Network. “As an industry, healthcare provides one of the fastestgrowing opportunities for employment, and our field is always in need of highly trained clinical personnel,’’ Beckmann said. He is optimistic about ongoing efforts to provide quality training for workers in his industry. “We see a commitment toward that end with the wonderful work being done to expand and strengthen the many offerings available at our local higher education institutions,” Beckmann said. He is equally upbeat about the region’s assets, specifically the University of Arizona. “As a landmark educational institution with a national reputation, UA enriches this community in so many ways,” he said. “It literally lives at the center of our community geographically, socially, economically and educationally.” Beckmann said TREO is working aggressively to address Southern Arizona’s two other top priorities – identifying, attracting and recruiting businesses interested in expanding into the West and Southwest by convincing their leadership that Tucson is the right fit for
their business, and working with city and county leaders to improve first impressions for visitors to the Tucson area. TREO provides Beckmann and others at Carondelet the opportunity to network, build partnerships and collaborate with other local business leaders who understand this interconnectivity and are willing to support each others’ success to strengthen the community, he said. “No business or organization that wishes to succeed expects to do so alone,’’ Beckmann said. “We are interconnected. We succeed when others succeed and we falter when other local businesses falter.” Going forward, partners in this regional development effort must work together to educate businesses and other communities about what the region has to offer, Beckmann said. “One of our greatest challenges is the highly competitive environment we face when attempting to attract new business to our community,” he said. “We must always be cognizant of highlighting the advantages we offer and eliminating barriers.”
Biz www.BizTucson.com
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
Partners in Economic Transformation By Romi Carrell Wittman Sharon Bronson has served on the Pima County Board of Supervisors since 1996, representing a huge swath of land that covers some 7,400 square miles and includes all of western Pima County. Tucson has changed in the 16 years that Bronson has served District 3, and while growth has slowed in recent years, Bronson believes it will pick up again in the near term. “Our southern corridor is ripe for new growth opportunities,” she explained. “It not only features our existing military and defense installations, but our international airport and important transportation industries.” Bronson also points to Southern Arizona’s growing tech corridor, anchored by the University of Arizona Science and Technology Park, the Bioscience Park at The Bridges and the medical campus on Ajo Way. Pima County must work hand-in-hand with the region’s top employers to ensure they stay in Tucson and to give them the tools and resources they need to expand, Bronson said. “Raytheon’s decision to expand its operations in Huntsville, Ala., was fueled in part by physical growth constraints at their current facility here,’’ she added. “With the land purchases, we have the opportunity now to make sure that if Raytheon expands in the future, it has what it needs to do so in Pima County. “Recent land purchases by Pima County averted incompatible development that had threatened the missions of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base www.BizTucson.com
and Raytheon Missile Systems,” Bronson said. Continued support of TREO is critical for the region’s economic development, Bronson said. “As long as new job opportunities come to the region, we aren’t picky about which jurisdictional boundaries they fall within. Pima County has made the decision to increase its contribution to assist TREO, given the importance we have placed on stimulating the economic environment and producing higher-wage jobs in the region. This is not the time to scale back that investment.” What does Bronson think would help the region to grow? Direct air service between Tucson and Mexico, specifically Hermosillo. “The Mexican market is a much smaller fraction of our economy than it would be if Mexican tourists and businessmen had easier access to Southern Arizona markets via Tucson,” she said. Bronson believes Southern Arizona has many advantages that are not easily duplicated in other cities. “We have a top-notch university. We’re in a prime location between Mexico and Phoenix. We have dynamic aerospace & defense and biosciences centers, as well as a livable community, a beautiful climate and an engaged populace,” she said. Bronson believes the region’s future is golden. “We don’t intend to see Pima County’s new economic development plan sit on a shelf gathering dust. We are optimistic that, with focused action, we can make the most of the opportunities that exist and begin to transform our economic landscape.”
Sharon Bronson Vice Chair, Pima County Board of Supervisors
Biz Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 85
Photo: BalfourWalker.com
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Let’s Grow Our Economy Together By Romi Carrell Wittman
Jim Click President, Jim Click Automotive
Everybody knows Jim Click. Whether it’s his television ads, his long-standing support of local nonprofits or his involvement in community events around town, Click is something of a Tucson icon. Tucson is near and dear to Click’s heart and he has high hopes for its future. However, he sees one main challenge to growing the region. “We’ve got to figure out a way to make it easier for businesses to grow in Tucson and for businesses to move to Tucson,” he said. “If we don’t grow, we don’t prosper.” As for the businesses already here, he said, “We need to put a warm blanket around them and keep them here.” Click believes that city and county government need to re-evaluate zoning, permitting and other issues to create a more business-friendly environment. “We need regulation and protected space,” he said, “but we have a bad reputation for business. We need to make it easier for businesses to get started.” While he believes progress is being made, Click said the reform of K-12 public education also needs to be a priority. “As a community, it behooves us to do everything we can to get reform in education and then properly fund it. We need to reward the good teachers and fund them so they have the tools to teach properly.” In the plus column, Click sees many advantages.
“The University of Arizona is the best asset we have,” he said. He points to Tucson’s natural beauty and resources as jewels in the crown, as well as the burgeoning high-tech industry. Click believes TREO is vital to the region’s economic future. “It would be silly for me not to support TREO,” he said. He believes TREO provides a crucial role in bringing city and county government together alongside business. “I think it’s one of the best investments I can make in my community and to grow my business.” Looking ahead, Click is optimistic. “I think 2013 is going to be a good year for the car business,” he said. “I think we’ll be up 10 to 15 percent.” He attributes this growth to pent-up demand. “Right now the average age of cars is 11 years. That’s the oldest we’ve ever seen,” he said. He believes people will start looking to replace those aged cars in the coming months. Click is equally optimistic about the region. “I think Tucson will do just fine. We’ve got a great community.”
Biz 86 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com
Showcasing Statewide Strengths
Photo: BalfourWalker.com
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
By Romi Carrell Wittman While the age-old rivalry between the Arizona State University Sun Devils and the University of Arizona Wildcats is good natured, the real-life rivalry between Phoenix and Tucson doesn’t benefit either community. That’s the message from Michael M. Crow, ASU president. Crow said TREO has been successful in overcoming these old north-south Arizona antagonisms. “TREO has gone a long way in fostering regionalism,” which Crow said is a goal he and ASU strongly support. Crow believes Southern Arizona and the Phoenix area need to collaborate to foster a truly regional approach to growth and economic development. The development of the Sun Corridor is critical for the region to effectively compete with the dozen or so “megapolitan” areas in the United States as well as with emerging markets around the world, Crow said. The Arizona Sun Corridor reaches from the Mexican border at Nogales through Yavapai County. By 2030, the population in that stretch of Arizona is expected to grow by more than 2 million residents. Infrastructure is also crucial, Crow said, including the development of an exceptional K-12 educational system, as
well as community college and university systems. He believes that incentives will play a necessary role in attracting business to the region. “A tool kit of incentives and policies would allow the state of Arizona to compete,” he said. These tools would give Arizona what it needs to effectively compete against historically business-friendly states like Texas, Crow said. Looking ahead, Crow believes Arizona has many challenges to address to become a competitor in the global marketplace. “We have great natural resources and sound infrastructure that, however, needs expansion and augmentation,” he said. Crow believes Arizona has a unique entrepreneurial spirit, evident in its high-tech accomplishment in the areas of aerospace & defense, biosciences, renewable energy and computer-related technologies. Still, Crow believes the biggest issue Arizona must deal with has to do with image. “The major challenge is overcoming the misperception that Arizona is not a progressive place to do business,” Crow said.
Michael M. Crow President, Arizona State University
Biz www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 87
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
Partners in Solving Economic Challenges By Romi Carrell Wittman
Ann Weaver Hart President, University of Arizona
88 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
Although she’s been on the job only a few months, University of Arizona President Ann Weaver Hart has hit the ground running, getting to know her new community, its opportunities and its obstacles. More importantly, she’s identified ways the UA can actively be part of the solution. “Southern Arizona is poised to undergo significant growth and workforce development, and the UA is diligently working to support this growth,” Hart said. She believes a key catalyst will be the region’s approach to public-private partnerships. “Public universities are about to enter a period of transformation, one in which they must decide how – or even whether – to survive in a future far different from what we now see,’’ Hart added. “How we approach learning and technology 10 to 20 years from now may look fundamentally different, but I’m confident that our bedrock principles of excellence in education, research and public service will be instantly recognizable no matter how much time passes.” Hart views the partnership between industry and the university as paramount. “The development of industry and the great public universities of the United States are inextricably linked. To us, as a land-grant university, the importance of the partnership between the UA and local businesses is even more critical – our mission calls us to bring developments from the lab to our citizens,
where there is tangible value.” She points to Tech Launch Arizona, an entity that was created to integrate UA technology commercialization programs. “TLA will streamline and facilitate the translation of research and discovery into intellectual property, inventions, and tangible products and services,” Hart said. “This proven business model has worked in other areas of the country with many positive results, including economic benefits.” Controlling “runaway healthcare costs’’ is a major challenge, Hart said. “We need to work together as a community to identify new approaches to healthcare delivery that emphasize preventive and personalized medicine, develop treatments for chronic illness and address the aging epidemic. One opportunity here is that doing these things will necessitate the development of assets in science and technology.’’ To promote the growth of Southern Arizona’s economic base, Hart said we must ask ourselves tough questions. “We need, as a community, to prepare ourselves for change by asking what we need to do to be as business-friendly as possible. Public-private partnerships are going to play a central role in the region’s economic growth, and they need to be fostered and cultivated,” she said. “We need to rise above local issues or differences and grow, shape, equip and inspire leaders who will help solve the greater challenges of tomorrow.”
Biz
www.BizTucson.com
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
Corporate Neighbors Supporting Growth Through Unity By Romi Carrell Wittman As CEO of Casino del Sol Resort and with more than 30 years of industry experience, Wendell Long has a unique take on what he believes are the region’s top priorities in growing our economic base. “Our economic growth and health is generated by adhering to well-founded principles such as nurturing a strong competitive environment in which individuals and companies can strive for success,” he said. Strategic alliances and partnerships must be at the core of any successful economic development plan, Long said. “We want to create a fertile and substantial playing field that promotes new ideas and encourages entrepreneurial momentum,” he said. The goal, he believes, is leveraging the region’s resources effectively, and creating a powerful, “one-stop’’ location for economic investment. Long views TREO as the centerpiece of Southern Arizona’s economic development efforts. “Today, more than ever, all of our boats in the harbor rise and fall together,” he said. “Our membership in TREO affords us the opportunity to explore and participate in a variety of activities dedicated to the growth of the entire region.” He believes that TREO can affect change and unify the sometimes competing voices and opinions heard in economic development discussions. www.BizTucson.com
“With so many voices and viewpoints, each with its own set of passionate and committed individuals and groups, TREO is in a unique position to help facilitate growth through unity,” he said. Long views participation in TREO as critical, both to the community and to the Pascua Yaqui tribe. “Our investment in the community and its growth occurs on many levels and touches the lives of people throughout the region. Our tribal members, our employees and vendor partners, and even our guests know that we are committed to supporting growth in every aspect of our role as a good corporate neighbor,” he explained. He is optimistic about the future. “I am extremely upbeat and positive about the immediate and long-term future for casino resorts in Arizona,” Long said. “We have seen growth in the casino and entertainment industry in the past year that is more positive overall than in the two years previous. Indicators are that 2013 and beyond will provide a more stable and smooth path to profitability. Progress has definitely been made on both a local and state level and we are seeing more Arizonans from all over the state come to Tucson to stay and play with us.’’
Wendell Long CEO, Casino del Sol Resort
Biz Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 89
PHOTO: CHRIS MOONEY
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Unleashing Tucson’s Economic Might By Romi Carrell Wittman
Fletcher McCusker Chairman Rio Nuevo Board
90 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
Unlocking Southern Arizona’s economic power – it’s a goal that’s dogged Tucson’s leaders for years. Fletcher McCusker, who recently announced his retirement as chairman and CEO of Providence Service Corporation effective at the end of 2012, believes he knows the keys to unlock and unleash Tucson’s economic might. First, there’s the need for cooperation. “(There is) still bickering between the City of Tucson and the county, (between) Rio Nuevo and the City of Tucson,” said McCusker, who is chairman of the Rio Nuevo board. “We need the entire region to come together and focus. (We need) to partner with Marana, Oro Valley and invite tribal government.” He believes the need for cooperation extends beyond local and regional government to the citizenry. “We have a passionate, parochial group of citizens that, when properly mobilized, is very effective,” he said. He laments the lack of common ground, a common plan or common direction. Next, McCusker said retaining a skilled talent pool is vital in building the economy. We must “keep our University of Arizona talent,” he said. “Programs like Eller College of Management, optical sciences and public health graduate some of the best talent in America, but they’re not staying and creating jobs in Tucson.”
McCusker believes improved mentoring and student internship programs would help students connect with entrepreneurs and keep them here after graduation. He believes building strong incubator programs and fostering venture capital is central to keeping Tucson’s talent in Tucson. The third key: market Tucson better. “We need to accelerate the promotion of Tucson as the place to live and work, the ‘New Austin,’” McCusker said. He believes this is possible by pooling the marketing resources of all local jurisdictions to develop a new campaign and brand identity to “step up our solicitation of companies and talent.” McCusker believes in Tucson, especially downtown, and, as the saying goes, he’s put his money where his mouth is. His grandfather laid sidewalk downtown and in May 2010, McCusker relocated his company downtown to promote and revitalize the area. TREO was one of the first organizations to understand the real, regional value of a walkable, urban environment as part of the overall Tucson experience, McCusker said. And that Tucson experience, as he calls it, is unique. “The desert beauty – people come from all over the world – it’s the most spectacular desert in America.”
Biz www.BizTucson.com
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
Education Critical to Workforce Development By Romi Carrell Wittman Suzanne L. Miles has served as interim chancellor of Pima Community College since February, capping a 26-year career at the educational institution. Her experience as interim chancellor and, before that, provost and executive vice chancellor and president of Pima’s Community Campus, has given her unique insight into our region’s strengths, weaknesses and – most importantly – opportunities. Having devoted her career to education, it’s no surprise that education and educational funding are at the top of her list of priorities for Tucson. “We need a strong and fully supported educational system, from preschool through to the community college and university systems,” she said. One significant problem affecting colleges nationwide is the large number of college students who require developmental education, Miles said. This indicates the need for higher-quality K-12 education, ensuring that students arrive at college with the basic skills required to be successful. Adult education is also vital to our success as a community, she said. Miles has noted that about 4,000 students are enrolled in Pima’s adult education programs alone.
“Community colleges can offer workforce training to industry and businesses,” she said, which is necessary in preparing the community for highly skilled jobs. A lack of funding to support education remains a hurdle for the State of Arizona and its education system, she said. Looking at the bigger picture, Miles believes incentives are a critical catalyst for growth in our region. Required for success are “incentives for business and industry to relocate to Southern Arizona,’’ as well as “safe neighborhoods and a clean, well-supported infrastructure.” Miles said creating a vital downtown for professionals and young adults is also crucial to Tucson’s future. TREO is an integral part of the Tucson region, Miles added. “TREO helps us to support our mission, which is to develop our community through learning,’’ she said.
Suzanne L. Miles Interim Chancellor Pima Community College
Biz www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 91
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Photo: BalfourWalker.com
Bolstering Healthcare for Future Generations By Gabrielle Fimbres
Karen D. Mlawsky CEO University of Arizona Medical Center
92 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
Access to quality healthcare is one of the greatest challenges facing our region. “It is likely that our state will continue to experience population growth, and unless physician supply for the state is significantly increased, we won’t have enough doctors to take care of our community,’’ said Karen D. Mlawsky, CEO of University of Arizona Medical Center. Creating a robust healthcare system in Arizona – including a strong safety net – will aid in economic growth, Mlawsky predicted. “Health needs must be addressed at the right time, by the right provider and in the right setting,” she said. “Prevention and wellness can shift the cost curve if we address it as a community. “People will always require healthcare whether they have healthcare coverage or not,” Mlawsky continued. “If we don’t solve the insurance coverage issues facing us, people will use the most expensive form of healthcare – the emergency room. This is unsustainable for our community’s businesses and economy.” The industry is poised for tremendous growth. “Healthcare will likely be one of the top job creating industries, regardless of a slow economic recovery,” Mlawsky said. “The average healthcare worker and physician are getting closer to retirement. But who will take care of us? There is tremendous opportunity to
contribute to our region’s economic development and job creation through teaching and training our future healthcare workforce. “We are fortunate to have the UA with teaching programs in the health sciences to help us meet the demand ahead,” she said. The healthcare market has also become “much more transparent over the past year and will continue to shift toward performance ratings, customer satisfaction, clinical outcomes and cost containment,’’ Mlawsky said. “This is good for our community” Creating a structurally sound revenue base at state, county and city levels and strengthening the state education system are also keys to economic stability, she added. “Education is critical to attract and retain a highly-skilled workforce and establish a pipeline for the future.” Why does UAMC invest in TREO? “We have a responsibility to play upon our strengths in Southern Arizona to diversify the economy,” Mlawsky said. “Having the university in our backyard along with world-renowned research and healthcare, we are uniquely positioned to attract biotech firms to our region. TREO facilitates connections and identifies synergies with others around the country – and world – that allow us to bring new opportunities back to our region.’’ Biz www.BizTucson.com
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE PHOTO: CHRIS MOONEY
Building a Healthy Community By Romi Carrell Wittman As president and CEO of TMC Healthcare, Judy Rich interacts with a vibrant and diverse cross-section of the community every day at Tucson Medical Center. This gives her a unique vantage point from which to see our region – with its areas of excellence and its areas of challenge. “A community is only as strong and successful as the people who live there,” Rich said. “To that end, the top economic development priorities should be education, recruiting and retaining top talent, and the quality of life – particularly as it is perceived by new residents.” Rich sees many things in Tucson’s plus column. “Our region is blessed by innovative and passionate people who are independent yet committed to helping others succeed,” she said. “And, of course, we have plenty of sunshine, which is good for the spirit and a good source of power.” Still, Tucson has its share of problems. “We continue to struggle with high poverty, a weakened K-12 education system and the lack of diverse job opportunities,” said Rich, who started her career as a hospital staff nurse. She believes TREO plays a central role in our community’s economic health.
“Our business community will thrive as our economy thrives,” Rich said. “TREO provides a clear path for new businesses to get the traction they need for success and supports the growth of existing businesses. We need to continue to support existing businesses and cultivate new businesses to drive our region forward.” Looking ahead, Rich predicted that the healthcare industry will have its share of challenges, yet she is hopeful. “As a hospital and a business, we are increasingly aware that the health of our industry is tied to the overall health of the population – our employees, our patients and our community,” she said. “There are many challenges facing healthcare today, but I am optimistic that by focusing on population health and engaging our patients to improve our care processes, our prognosis is very good.”
Judy Rich President & CEO TMC Healthcare
Biz www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 93
TREO CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Photo: BalfourWalker.com
Arizona Ripe with High-Tech Talent By Romi Carrell Wittman
Sandra Watson President & CEO Arizona Commerce Authority
94 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
While Sandra Watson may be new to the TREO Chairman’s Circle, she brings with her an extensive background in economic development in Arizona. Watson was named president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority in October after serving in those positions on an interim basis. She was with the Arizona Department of Commerce for 15 years prior to that and has worked to bring hundreds of companies and tens of thousands of jobs to Arizona. Growth is good, but Watson believes the focus must be on quality growth. Attracting and supporting companies in well-established, high-value, advanced industries such as aerospace & defense should be a priority. She also sees highgrowth nascent industries like biosciences, optics and renewable energy as central to Arizona’s future. Watson believes fostering new business and innovation is critical. “Growing Arizona’s economic base requires attracting new businesses to the state, assisting existing business with expansion efforts, and helping innovative entrepreneurs create new business,” she explained. Arizona is already known for an entrepreneur-friendly business climate, Watson said. “As evidenced by Arizona’s number one ranking for entrepreneurial activity from the Kauffman Foundation, Arizona is ripe with talent, creativity and cutting-edge research and development,’’ Watson said. “Fostering this type of business creation contributes to a more
sustainable model of economic prosperity.” Watson said TREO is important because it is central to a larger, collaborative movement in the state. “Economic development is a team sport,’’ Watson said. “Collaboration benefits our statewide economy, and it’s working. Recent results of these efforts include the announcements of Aris Integration, Accelr8 and Living Social in Southern Arizona.” Watson believes the region has many positive attributes, and points to the University of Arizona as a singular asset. She said Raytheon Missile Systems, Ventana Medical Systems, Abrams Airborne Manufacturing and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base add luster to the region. She sees a bright future for Arizona. “Now more than ever, Arizona can compete – and can win – in the global marketplace. Our state is making tremendous progress in advancing an innovative, nextgeneration, sustainable economic environment that fosters business creation, expansion and attraction.” In 2013, Watson sees further collaboration between TREO, the City of Tucson and Pima County, the fruits of which will benefit the entire region. “Our outlook is incredibly positive, and we maintain a focused and targeted strategy to continue to grow and strengthen Arizona’s economy and facilitate the creation of quality jobs by supporting and attracting businesses in targeted, high-value base sectors throughout the state,’’ she said. Biz www.BizTucson.com
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 95
TREO 2012 - 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Steven Banzhaf – Senior VP, U.S. Trust/Bank of America
Steven Banzhaf represents U.S. Trust/Bank of America in the Tucson community in connection with its philanthropic, volunteer and community outreach. In addition to its retail banking, mortgage and credit-card operations, Bank of America has become a preeminent investment-advisory firm through its acquisition of Merrill Lynch in late 2008. One of the reasons Bank of America supports economic development is that its local philanthropic partners have encouraged the
bank to be a community leader in the effort to bring more quality employment opportunities to Tucson. Banzhaf is a member of the TREO Nominating Committee and is involved with a number of community organizations, which include United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona (past chairman, 2007-2009), Tucson Junior Achievement and DM50.
W. Barry Bendall – VP, Principal Relationship Manager, Wells Fargo Bank
W. Barry Bendall manages a diversified portfolio of clients who conduct business in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, hospitality, nonprofit and construction. He has 29 years of experience in both commercial and retail banking in Arizona. Wells Fargo is a leader in promoting longterm economic prosperity and quality of life for all in the community. He believes that supporting economic development offers opportunities for the type of growth that will allow our area to prosper,
now and in the future. Bendall has served on several community boards. He’s past president of Sierra Vista Economic Development Foundation and a former board member of Tucson Metro Chamber. Bendall is an executive board member of Boy Scouts of America, Catalina Council.
Duane Blumberg – Mayor, Town of Sahuarita
Sahuarita, a town of more than 25,000 residents located south of Tucson, uses the council/mayor form of government. As mayor, Duane Blumberg presides at council meetings, executes official documents and represents the town to a variety of organizations. According to Blumberg, the town’s business activity is concentrated on the retail/service and construction sectors. Its emphasis on developing economic diversification by attracting high-
wage primary businesses to provide a more sustainable economy fits well with TREO’s mission and activities. In addition to his position as a TREO board member, Blumberg is a trustee with Arizona Municipal Risk Retention Pool, a member of the Regional Council of the Pima Association of Governments and a member of the Regional Transportation Authority board of directors.
Kevin M. Burnett – Senior VP & CFO, Sundt Companies
Sundt is a diversified general contractor with expertise in civil, mining, industrial, government and commercial building. The firm has revenues of approximately $1 billion, serving both public and private clients. Kevin M. Burnett’s responsibilities include leading financial reporting and planning, tax, investments and risk management functions. A significant industry development he’s seen in recent years is the technological advancement in modeling, constructability reviews, estimating and proj-
96 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
ect management. Burnett believes that economic development is critical to the financial health of our community and expanding business, which fits with Sundt’s mission to give back and improve the communities in which its employees live. Burnett serves as vice chair of the YMCA of Southern Arizona and he is president of Valley of the Sun Construction Finance Managers Association.
www.BizTucson.com
Kathy Byrne – Executive Director, El Rio Community Health Center
As executive director, Kathy Byrne oversees the largest community health center in the state, employing more than 800 people with an operating budget in excess of $85 million. She directs initiatives and operations that support the organization’s mission of “improving our community through comprehensive, accessible, affordable, quality, compassionate care.’’ Byrne serves as board member of the El Rio Foundation, which raises private support to fund the health center’s programs. In
2013 she will supervise the building of a new $14 million, 50,000-square-foot site being constructed near downtown. Byrne serves on the State Medicaid Advisory Committee, the executive committee of Health Information Network of Arizona and the board of Arizona Association of Community Health Centers.
Bruce Dusenberry – President, Horizon Moving Systems
Horizon Moving Systems is Arizona’s largest moving and storage company and specializes in all types of moves almost anywhere around the globe. Since 1924, Horizon’s employees have taken pride in helping customers experience a smooth and positive moving experience. Bruce Dusenberry serves as the company’s ambassador to the local business communities in which it operates and he partners with TREO because he is interested in striving for new horizons for economic de-
velopment in our region. Dusenberry’s community involvement includes serving as board member and chairman of Tucson Metro Chamber and board member of Southern Arizona Leadership Council. In 2009 he was honored as Man of the Year by what was then the Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, and in 2012 Horizon was named a finalist in the Tucson Metro Chamber Copper Cactus Awards for Community Service.
Patricia Feeney – President, Southern Arizona Market, Chase Bank
As president, Patricia Feeney leads the community relations for the Southern Arizona market of JPMorgan Chase, a global financial services company and local bank. She also manages commercial banking relationships with clients across the state. Feeney has found that regulatory and market changes have made it more important than ever for banks to provide security and solutions to customers. She believes there is a direct connection between a healthy economy and a
healthy community. In 2010 Chase donated $3.9 million to Arizona nonprofits to support community, education, workforce and economic development. Her community involvement includes serving on the boards of Junior Achievement and La Paloma Family Services. She is a member of Capital Campaign Cabinet of the United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, Southern Arizona Leadership Council and Financial Executives & Affiliates of Tucson.
Guy Gunther – VP & GM, Tucson & Greater Arizona, CenturyLink
CenturyLink is the third largest telecommunications company in the United States and provides data, voice and managed services through its advanced fiber-optic networks. The company is in the process of implementing new technologies to Southern Arizona, including Enterprise cloud computing, collocation and managed hosting services. Economic development is the engine that drives jobs, economic prosperity and growth to the state and communities. CenturyLink is com-
www.BizTucson.com
mitted to improving lives, strengthening businesses and connecting communities by delivering advanced technologies and solutions. Guy Gunther is a board member of Tucson Metro Chamber and Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. He also serves on Southern Arizona Leadership Council and with Boy Scouts of America, Catalina Council.
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 97
TREO 2012 - 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Michael S. Hammond – President & CEO, Cushman & Wakefield/ PICOR Commercial Real Estate Services
Cushman & Wakefield/PICOR offers brokerage, consulting, asset and property management for industrial, office, medical, retail, land and investment properties. Michael S. Hammond is responsible for the overall strategic direction and financial health of the company and is currently expanding the company’s reach into the Southern Arizona Hispanic community and Sonora, Mexico. He considers it a community responsibility to help TREO succeed. Hammond serves on
various boards and committees, including the 2012 Capital Campaign Committee for the United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona and the Global Expansion Task Force of the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors. He is also the current chair of Southern Arizona Leadership Council.
William C. Harris – President & CEO, Science Foundation Arizona
Science Foundation Arizona is a nonprofit organization that was established in 2006 to focus on innovation and diversifying the Arizona economy through research and development partnerships that include Tucson-based Critical Path Institute and REhnu, a new concentrated solar energy company. SFAz supports economic development through a competitive grant process inspired by industry-university R&D partnerships. It is helping the state develop a focus on STEM (science, technology,
engineering and mathematics) education to make Arizona’s workforce and economy more competitive. William C. Harris is technical advisor to Arizona Commerce Authority. He serves with the National Academy of Sciences and on the Board of Governors for the U.S.Mexico Foundation for Science. He’s also a charter member of the Ser Cymru Oversight Committee in Wales.
Gary Hayes – Executive Director, Pima Association of Governments/ Regional Transportation Authority
Pima Association of Governments, a metropolitan planning organization with an emphasis in transportation, energy and environmental planning, also manages the Regional Transportation Authority, the fiscal manager of the multi-modal RTA plan. Gary Hayes and his staff oversee program planning and coordination with all PAG member jurisdictions. Looking to the future, Hayes sees the modern streetcar, alternative-fuel vehicles and solar power as being economically advanta-
geous to the area’s communities. He believes a growing economy provides a stronger tax base to help fund needed infrastructure and transportation growth, resulting in an improved standard of living for everyone. Associations to which Hayes belongs include American Institute of Certified Planners and National Association of Regional Councils. He received the Arizona Transit Association Friends in Transit Excellence Award in 2009.
Satish I. Hiremath, DDS – Mayor, Town of Oro Valley
Mayor Satish I. Hiremath is a practicing dentist with a history of community service who has served as mayor since June 2010. During his tenure, the Town of Oro Valley has become a model for regional collaboration, strengthening not just the town itself, but the Tucson region as a whole. Oro Valley has also established itself as a bioscience/high-tech hot spot, and continues its focus on attracting industry leaders. Hiremath is currently serving as chair of the Regional Transportation
98 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
Authority and is a board member of the Arizona Bioscience Roadmap Steering Committee. He is past president of Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance. The Northern Pima County Chamber of Commerce recognized Hiremath as Community Leader of the Year in 2007.
www.BizTucson.com
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 99
TREO 2012 - 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ed Honea – Mayor, Town of Marana
The Town of Marana government provides core services to residents and businesses owners, including police, parks and recreation and road maintenance. Mayor Ed Honea is one of seven elected officials whose job is to set policies and answer to the needs of Marana’s citizens as outlined in the town’s Strategic Plan. Honea supports the expansion of quality jobs so people can live and work in Marana. He encourages economic development
policies that are conducive to attracting, retaining and expanding business in the entire region. Honea contributes his time to Arizona League of Cities and Towns and Central Arizona Association of Governments. He is past chair of Pima Association of Governments and Regional Transportation Authority. In 2012 he was named Marana Rotary Club Man of the Year.
David Hutchens – President, UNS Energy Corp. & Tucson Electric Power
Tucson Electric Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 400,000 customers in the Tucson metropolitan area. David Hutchens oversees operations, public policy, communications, information services, human resources and customer service. TEP is in the midst of a dramatic expansion in renewable energy resources that will see more than 200 megawatts of solar energy installed in the Tucson area by the end of 2013.
Hutchens recognizes that TREO’s efforts to attract and retain local businesses contribute directly to the longterm economic viability of our region. His participation in the community includes past president and current board member of 88-CRIME, member of Southern Arizona Leadership Council, Tucson Conquistadores and the Governor’s Solar Energy Advisory Task Force.
Scott Hutchings – Manager, Government and Public Affairs, Waste Management
Waste Management is a leading provider of comprehensive waste management services in Arizona and across North America. It is the largest residential recycler and a leading developer, operator and owner of waste-toenergy and landfill gas-to-energy facilities in the United States. WM has nearly 1,500 employees and 500,000 customers statewide and understands that providing viable employment for Arizona residents is critical to a
thriving economy. The Waste Management Phoenix Open generated about $222 million in revenue for the state in 2011. Of increasing importance to WM is incorporating cuttingedge technologies into its business model, such as collecting organic materials from the Arizona Frito Lay plant for use in the development of biomass fuels.
Daisy M. Jenkins – Executive VP, Chief Administrative/HR Officer, Carondelet Health Network
Carondelet Health Network is Southern Arizona’s largest nonprofit Catholic healthcare system, and is a vibrant healing ministry that provides access to excellent care for the people of our community. Daisy M. Jenkins’ role is to guide the ministry’s relationship with its 4,800-plus associates and achieve a culture of excellence that advances Carondelet’s purpose and mission. She believes that healthcare and education are key drivers behind strong economic development and are
100 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
very important to those investing in our community. Jenkins is past co-chair of the Blueprint Mobilization Committee. She serves on various community boards, including United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, Tucson Airport Authority, University of Arizona President’s African American Advisory Council and the UA’s James E. Rogers College of Law Board of Visitors.
www.BizTucson.com
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 101
TREO 2012 - 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gregg R. Johnson – Campus Director, University of Phoenix, Southern Arizona Campus
With more than 100 campus locations in 36 states and online, University of Phoenix provides working adults with higher education opportunities – the foundation on which economic development is based. Gregg R. Johnson’s role is to lead the Southern Arizona campus and its staff in preparing students with real-world skills. University of Phoenix recently launched an iPhone app to help deliver a 21st-century education experience. Johnson holds key community positions that
include chair of the governance committee and executive committee member of Community Food Bank, chair of the planning committee for Workforce Investment Board and board member of Boys & Girls Clubs of Tucson. He is a recipient of the Distinguished Teaching Award, University of Phoenix.
Bill Kelley – CFO, Diamond Ventures
Diamond Ventures is a diversified investment company that specializes in real estate and venture capital in Southern Arizona with a portfolio exceeding 14,000 acres. Bill Kelley is responsible for marketing and management of the existing industrial/business park and commercial portfolio, as well as corporate financing. The company’s entire staff supports economic development, believing it creates wealth for the community and growth
in philanthropy. Diamond Ventures recently completed nearly $21 million in real estate acquisitions for its Southwest real estate opportunity fund. Kelley’s community involvement includes work with DM50, Fox Tucson Theatre Foundation and Integrative Touch for Kids. He’s an alumnus of Greater Tucson Leadership and he served as treasurer for Jim Kolbe’s congressional campaigns from 19822004.
Lawrence Mehren – President & CEO, Accelr8 Technology Corporation
Accelr8, which recently relocated to Tucson, develops instruments used for the rapid detection of pathogenic microorganisms, specifically a system that can count and identify dangerous pathogens and their drug resistance expression within the same day of obtaining a patient specimen. This speed allows for a significant improvement in the treatment of the more than 1.7 million people in the U.S. who contract a hospital-acquired infection
each year. Lawrence Mehren believes that as a biotech company, Accelr8’s most important asset is its people. He believes that creating a biotech hub in Southern Arizona will attract more employers, which will encourage the best and brightest to stay in the region and draw others to the area, as well. Tucson is already in the process of becoming a biotech hub with its rare mix of climate, affordability, world-class university and job opportunities.
Frances McLane Merryman – VP, Wealth Strategies Group, The Northern Trust Company
Northern Trust is a leading provider of investment management, asset administration and fiduciary services for institutions and affluent individuals worldwide. Frances McLane Merryman works with clients and prospects to help them identify their goals and connect them with the appropriate partners within the company. She believes that clients’ lives should drive their investment strategy – not the other way around. Northern Trust considers busi-
102 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
ness, personal, family and philanthropic aspects in customizing goal-driven investing. Merryman is active in the community and focuses her volunteer time on economic development and education issues. Among the organizations she serves are Critical Path Institute, Tucson Airport Authority, Southern Arizona Leadership Council and Desert Angels.
www.BizTucson.com
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 103
TREO 2012 - 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dennis Minano – Vice Chair, Sonoran Institute
Dennis Minano is a strategic advisor to business and government entities in the U.S., Canada and Mexico on energy, environmental and infrastructure matters. He supports TREO in its core areas to secure local reinvestment and attract new growing businesses. He advocates for local, state and border infrastructure improvements to encourage relocation of companies that participate in global trade. He serves on TREO’s Compensation and Nominating Committee. Minano was recently ap-
pointed to the University of Arizona Health Network board of directors and volunteers on the board of 88-Crime. In 2009 he was recognized as TREO Volunteer of the Year.
Omar Mireles – Executive VP, HSL Properties
HSL Properties is a real estate investment firm with a focus on apartment investment, development and management. HSL is the largest owner and operator of apartment communities in Southern Arizona. Omar Mireles manages the company’s property portfolio, including acquisitions, dispositions, financing and development. HSL is answering the economic demand for more rental housing with the development of three new luxury, energyefficient apartment communities. Mireles be-
lieves that the social and economic vitality of our community depends on growth and diversification of the area’s employment base, and to achieve this it is essential to have a unified voice promoting Tucson. He is on the board of directors of Arizona Multihousing Association, Salpointe Catholic High School and Tu Nidito Children and Family Services. He is a member of Tucson Airport Authority and Tucson Conquistadores.
Colleen Niccum – Director, Community & Government Relations, Raytheon Missile Systems
With 2011 sales of $5.6 billion, Raytheon Missile Systems is the world’s largest developer, producer and integrator of weapon systems for the U.S. and allied forces, employing 10,500 in the Tucson area. Colleen Niccum’s responsibilities include working with community and state organizations to support economic and workforce development in Arizona and promoting the company’s education outreach efforts. She believes that community
groups must work together on a regional approach to economic development that leverages the strengths of the entire community. Niccum serves on a number of community boards, including Tucson Values Teachers, Tucson Metro Chamber and Expect More Arizona. She is also a governor appointee to the Arizona Ready Council. She was named the 2012 Woman of the Year by Greater Tucson Leadership.
Judith Patrick – Board Chair, SCF Arizona
As the largest and longest-operating worker’s compensation insurance company in the state, SCF Arizona is committed to the success of both small and large businesses and to the safety of their employees. In her position as board chair, Judith Patrick helps set the company’s vision and direction while overseeing its financial reporting and legal compliance as its chief governance officer. SCF is in a unique position as an economic development engine fueled by private enterprise and is dedicated
104 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
to growing our communities and our state. By forming partnerships, SCF creates beneficial development opportunities for businesses, the community and employees. Patrick is on the board of Southwestern Fair Commission and is a member of Tucson Airport Authority.
www.BizTucson.com
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 105
TREO 2012 - 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tony Penn – President & CEO, United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona
United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona leverages partnerships with more than 70 nonprofit agencies, community leaders, corporations and local governments to advance the common good. Each year, the organization positively touches the lives of more than 100,000 children, families and seniors. United Way Worldwide recently recognized the local organization as one of the top 25 United Ways in the nation for its community impact. The organization strategically focuses on education, income and health,
which encompass its mission of “Building a Better Community for All.” Tony Penn believes these strategies support economic development because we all win when children succeed in school, families are financially independent and people are healthy. Penn also serves on the Tucson Metro Chamber board.
Virgil Renzulli – VP for Public Affairs, Arizona State University
Virgil Renzulli represents one of the nation’s top universities and communicates to state and municipal elected officials, business and chamber of commerce leaders, community groups, potential students and the news media. ASU is a major player in the state’s economic development as Arizona’s largest producer of bachelor’s degrees and a top research institution. It patents and licenses intellectual property, runs two research parks, spins off new companies and plays an important role in attracting high-tech firms to the
state. ASU has been recognized as a model in higher education for being inclusive and geared toward solving real-world problems. Renzulli is a member of East Valley Partnership, Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, WESTMARC, Tempe Chamber of Commerce and Phoenix Community Alliance.
Walter Richter – Administrator for Corporate Public Affairs, Southwest Gas
Walter Richter is responsible for local government relations in Southern Arizona. His role helps to ensure that Southwest Gas continues to provide outstanding service for businesses and homes. The company supports TREO in order to create a positive business environment and a healthy economy in Southern Arizona. In addition to his work as a board member with TREO, Richter serves on the board of Downtown Tucson Partnership as well as Metropolitan Pima Alliance. He is also chair of the candidate selection committee of
Tucson Metro Chamber. He previously oversaw service planning for the Yuma district and served as board chair of the Yuma County Chamber of Commerce. He served as president of the Yuma Executives Association.
Jonathan Rothschild – Mayor, City of Tucson
The mayor sets goals for our city and convenes people and organizations to help meet those goals. He believes that city leaders have a vested interest in helping businesses succeed and growing our economy. Two areas Mayor Jonathan Rothschild is focused on are science and technology companies at all stages, from startup to expansion to relocation, and trade with Mexico and beyond. He sees Tucson as having natural advantages as both a science city and in its proximity to Mexico. Roths-
106 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
child volunteers with Operation Deep Freeze. He is past president of Casa de los Niños, Handmaker Jewish Services for the Aging and Temple Emanu-El.
www.BizTucson.com
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 107
TREO 2012 - 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS David C. Smallhouse – Managing Director, Miramar Ventures
Miramar Ventures is an investment partnership that focuses on active and passive investments in real estate, private equity and venture capital. The company is currently active in local early-stage venture investing in the industry sectors of medical devices, alternative energy, life sciences and information technologies. In his position, David C. Smallhouse reviews potential opportunities and recommends investments to partners. He has recently seen a trend toward more technology-based
companies seeking early-stage investment. Smallhouse believes that our region can realize a stronger economy with better jobs and stability over time and that TREO is the voice reminding local leaders to remain focused in areas of competitive advantage. His community involvement includes serving with Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Desert Angels, National Law Center for International Free Trade, Tucson Airport Authority and Tucson Conquistadores.
Philip B. Tedesco – CEO, Tucson Association of REALTORS/MLS
Philip B. Tedesco oversees Southern Arizona’s largest trade association, representing more than 5,000 professionals in the real estate industry and supporting the growth of the region’s real estate market. TAR/MLS is a cooperative real estate database of listing and sales information, last year facilitating more than $2.2 billion in total sales volume. Tedesco also serves as executive director of the Tucson Realtors Charitable Foundation, a separate nonprofit that supports the commu-
nity by enhancing its quality of life through financial programs, education and housingrelated initiatives. He believes economic development is vital to Tucson’s future both from the perspective of attracting new companies to the region and retaining those already here. Tedesco’s community work outside the real estate industry includes serving as president of Rotary Club of Pantano.
Leslie P. Tolbert – Senior VP for Research, University of Arizona
The University of Arizona provides education, research and service to the state of Arizona. Leslie P. Tolbert oversees a $600 million research enterprise and the university’s graduate programs. With the success of UA and Tucson being intimately intertwined and each thriving only as the other thrives, she understands that UA must be a strong economic driver for the region. As federal funding for university-based research becomes more limited, UA strives to ensure the competitiveness
of its faculty in pursuing groundbreaking innovation while also providing a rich researchinfused education. Broadening and deepening partnerships with industry is key to both areas. Tolbert is actively involved in a number of community organizations including Southern Arizona Leadership Council, Arizona Biosciences Roadmap Committee and Large Binocular Telescope.
Dr. Raymond L. Woosley – President, AZCERT
Former VP for health sciences at the University of Arizona and dean of the College of Medicine, and founder of Critical Path Institute, Dr. Raymond L. Woosley now oversees AZCERT. The nonprofit organization sponsors CredibleMeds.org, a web-based educational program with more than 50,000 unique visitors each month. AZCERT has improved the safe use of medications and reduced the unwanted side effects of medications since
108 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
2000. In addition to being a member of the TREO board of directors, Woosley serves on the UA College of Science Board of Advisors and is Professor Emeritus at the Sarver Heart Center and BIO5. He is also a scientific and medical advisor for TREO, Diamond Holualoa Capital and DxInsights.
www.BizTucson.com
Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no limit to how far we can grow. CenturyLink proudly supports TREO. CenturyLink understands the important role that TREO plays in the Southern Arizona business community. CenturyLink knows that TREO is working to build a successful future and this is done by working together so we can build a thriving community that prospers.
See how we connect at centurylink.com.
CenturyLink is proud to support TREO.
Š 2012 CenturyLink, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The name CenturyLink, the pathways logo, and the CenturyLink brand sub-graphic are trademarks of CenturyLink, Inc.
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 109
TREO 2012 - 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bruce A. Wright – Associate VP, University Research Parks, University of Arizona
The Office of University Research Parks operates University of Arizona Science and Technology Park, UA Bio Park and Arizona Center for Innovation. The group contributes to regional economic growth utilizing research parks and business incubators to advance technology, commercialization and business attraction. New developments include expansion of the Bio Park as a home for life and bioscience companies and the Solar
Zone at UA Tech Park as a site for solar energy research and manufacturing. The Border Technology Center is testing and evaluating defense and border security technology. Bruce A. Wright is past president of Association of University Research Parks, a member of RTA Citizen’s Advisory Committee and Southern Arizona Leadership Council and past chair of Southern Arizona Chapter of the American Red Cross.
OF COUNSEL Lawrence M. Hecker – Partner, Hecker & Muehlebach
Lawrence M. Hecker is a senior partner at Hecker & Muehlebach law firm. He has recently seen increased business startup activity involving technology-based and scalable companies and more local investor interest. Hecker believes the success of his business depends on a vibrant, sustainable and diversified economy and that TREO’s strategy of recruitment, retention and job creation is the best way to achieve that goal. Hecker serves
110 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
as TREO’s legal counsel and commits time to various community organizations, including serving as chair of Pima County Bond Advisory Committee and IdeaFunding. He is a board member of Downtown Tucson Partnership and Tucson Regional Entrepreneurial Economy Taskforce. He is also an adjunct professor at the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law, teaching Law and Entrepreneurship.
www.BizTucson.com
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 111
From left – TREO President & CEO Joe Snell, Arizona Commerce Authority President & CEO Sandra Watson, Aris Integration Founder & CEO Duane Armijo, Pima County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Sharon Bronson and Pima County Board of Supervisors Chair Ramon Valadez.
PHOTO: CHANCE AGRELLA
BizSUCCESS
Tenacity Attracts High-Tech Construction Pioneer By Eric Swedlund Powerful collaboration between TREO, private industry and government resulted in the latest economic score for the Tucson region – with the announcement by Aris Integration that it will set up shop in Tucson. Aris, a manufacturing and construction pioneer in energy-efficient building technologies and design, will establish its headquarters in Tucson, with 600 jobs expected in the next five years. Aris will manufacture a cost-effective and lightweight panelized wall system that combines green building technologies with the versatility to be used across housing, commercial and government markets. “This is a system that is far more energy efficient than anything that is out there,” said Duane Armijo, founder and CEO of Aris. “We can produce these things with a cost that’s competitive with standard construction practices. Usually what kills great ideas in the construction industry is they’re expensive. The platform we’re building 112 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
in Tucson will be a prototype for everything else we do.” Aris will begin hiring this fall, with short-term goals of 250 skilled workers and a total of 600 by 2017. Tucson will also be Aris’s second of six planned regional manufacturing locations across the country. Locally, Aris anticipates a 250,000-square-foot facility will be operational by the end of 2013. Joe Snell, president and CEO of TREO, said the Aris announcement is the culmination of four months of work between the company, Arizona Commerce Authority, Pima County and TREO. Like the last three TREO announcements in August and September – Accelr8 Technology Corporation, Integrated Technologies Group and American Tire Distributors – Snell cited a potent working collaboration in successfully attracting Aris to Tucson. “Our strong partnerships among the state, county, city and business community and our tenacity are paying off in the form of new jobs and economic
prosperity,” Snell said. “It’s part of our culture to embrace the environmental sustainability and green technology movement and Aris Integration fits very well with our region’s assets as well as our vision of providing innovative products and services that contribute to important industries.” Ramon Valadez, chairman of the Pima County Board of Supervisors, said, “What excites me about this announcement are the aspects of Aris Integration that truly reflect our community’s foundation and values – sustainability, energy efficiency and innovative thinking.” The company’s “vision of changing the construction process and industry through new building technology is revolutionary and Pima County will be a strong partner. This announcement is also important to the construction industry. While a recovery is slow, it is gaining speed and 600 new jobs will greatly help accelerate it locally.” Sandra Watson, president and CEO www.BizTucson.com
of Arizona Commerce Authority, said the announcement reflects the state’s advantages in a talented work force and favorable business climate and will be a boon to our manufacturing sector, which accounts for $14.6 billion in exported goods and 151,000 high-paying jobs in Arizona. “In addition to its cutting-edge technology, the company’s passion and excitement can lead the way in developing new opportunities in the construction industry and that’s really exciting for us in Arizona,” Watson said. Armijo said negotiations that landed Aris in Tucson were persuasive and quick. “Four months is light speed to get something like this done. It has been a serious team effort,” he said. A Southwest native and general contractor since 1979, Armijo moved to Arizona from Colorado in 2005 and founded Chaparral Construction. Centex Homes offered Armijo a contract to provide framing and trim for masterplanned communities on the west part of Phoenix and Armijo began to package skilled trades together. “What I saw as the problem was too much building and not enough skilled people. There was a superintendent for every single trade and the builders were trying to manage all these superintendents and it wasn’t working,” Armijo said. “At Chaparral, what we did was look at integrating – and that’s where the initial idea came. We looked at framing, dry wall, stucco, paint and trim and started to integrate those trades. That really streamlined the building process because Centex now had to call only one company for all those trades.” Chaparral grew to 700 employees, 80 vehicles and was delivering 35 homes per week – but then the housing bust hit. “Unfortunately, as quickly as it started, the bottom fell out of the industry and we were one of the first major companies to shut our doors,” Armijo said. Armijo was lucky enough to meet a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and get the idea to design a sustainable building system. Aris began the research and development phase four years ago and went to market in www.BizTucson.com
2012. “This type of building system is going to be the norm over the next 10 to 20 years and we started to develop a strategy in late 2007,” Armijo said. Aris first began working for the Department of Defense on a panelized building system. The new panels integrate light-gauge-steel structural framing and ultra-lightweight-foam insulation with sustainable materials and energy-efficient design. The process yields cost savings, drastically reduced building times and fully customizable modification potential. “I remember doing that first building at a little shop here in Tucson and we hauled it out to Gila Bend to the contracting agent to show him this is the future of construction. We actually sold our first building to that contracting
“
This building system will change the way people build.
”
– Duane Armijo Founder & CEO, Aris Integration
agent three years ago and it’s the mess hall at Gila Bend,” Armijo said. “Energy audits said the building that took five men five hours to erect was 10 times more energy efficient than a standard building.” Though Aris’ system met the needs of the Department of Defense, the drawdown of war efforts in Iraq and
Afghanistan caused Armijo to turn his focus to residential and commercial construction. “Our vision early on was to find a new way to build, not just a new product,” Armijo said. A key partner for Aris is the UnitedKingdom-based Fusion Building Systems, which developed a system years ahead of its time and has a 12-year performance history, with more than 5,000 products “in the ground” in Ireland and the UK. The company’s Tucson facility will bring together manufacturing, building and logistics, with an opportunity to be an agent of change on the global stage. “As we started developing this system we always knew it had global applications and we knew that if we were going to have an impact, it had to be able to be utilized across all building sectors,” Armijo said. “We spent four years designing a product line that’s versatile enough to be cost effective for low income housing, custom homes, commercial, industrial – and all of our buildings are 60 to 70 percent more energy efficient than standard construction.” A veteran himself, Armijo said Aris has a Veteran’s First Initiative, with a focus on training veterans in manufacturing, construction and logistics, as well as helping them start their own businesses, training them to be contractors specializing in the Aris building system. That focus connects directly with Pima County’s efforts, said Sharon Bronson, vice chair of the Pima County Board of Supervisors. “One of the hallmarks of Pima County’s support for businesses is our focus on workforce development,” Bronson said. “Pima County opened the nation’s first workforce center aimed at helping military veterans find jobs, training, benefits and support services in July. This center is ready to assist right away to hire our local veterans.” Aris is poised to have an impact on the global construction industry. “What we will do here in Tucson is evaluate and design a platform that will work not only here, but around the world,” Armijo said. “People are trying to do what we do, but not at the level that we are. This building system will change the way people build.” Biz Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 113
114 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com
PHOTO: BRENT G. MATHIS
BizSUCCESS
Lawrence Mehren President & CEO Accelr8 Technology Corporation
Cascading Cooperation Results in Accelr8 Win for Tucson By Dan Sorenson Accelr8 Technology Corporation’s August announcement that it was moving its headquarters and research operations to Tucson was the result of cooperation between local entities that in the past often competed. Accelr8 scientists are developing a new rapid diagnostic system for identifying and counting dangerous pathogens and their drug resistance. The in-development BACcel system would provide information needed to identify specifically targeted treatment within one day of gathering a patient specimen – a great improvement over existing technology’s wait of two or three days when battling the rising problem of hospital-acquired infections. CEO and President Lawrence Mehren said the top priorities in relocating Accelr8 were finding specialized wet lab space, a skilled biotech workforce and positive economic conditions. Mehren projects hiring 65 high-skilled technologists in the first three years and www.BizTucson.com
ultimately employing 200 to 300 workers. There was positive momentum for Tucson going into negotiations. Though the company was in Denver, its new owners had strong Tucson ties. Mehren left Ventana Medical Systems in 2011, after having been senior VP, CFO and head of global business. John Patience, Accelr8’s chairman, and director Jack Schuler are former Ventana Medical Systems board members. There were hurdles to overcome, however. Mehren said Tucson was competing with Denver and Michigan for their business. “Colorado was clearly our first choice – we were already there,” Mehren said. But the right lab space deal wasn’t offered there and Michigan was quickly out of the running for unspecified reasons. Fortunately, Mehren’s Tucson contacts funneled him to others who ultimately nailed down that No. 1 need – wet lab space. To hear them tell it, it
was a case of cascading cooperation. His first contacts were almost simultaneous, with Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild and commercial real estate broker Bob Davis. Rothschild already knew Mehren socially and through his law firm, Mesch, Clark & Rothschild. Davis was recommended to him by another business contact. “He contacted me,” Rothschild said. “I put him in contact with Maricela Solis, my staff business advocate, and Chris Kaselemis (of the city manager’s office), who sat him down and walked him through some of what we had available.” The mayor’s staffers and Davis directed Mehren to TREO. “We did what TREO was mandated to do – be a single point of contact and a coordinating agency,” said Joe Snell, TREO president and CEO. “They (TREO) in the best possible way acted in a coordinating role,” said Mehren, who has since joined the TREO board of directors. “They continued on page 121 >>> Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 115
Get to know the
BUSINESS SIDE OF COX. Tucson Old Pueblo Credit Union did. Cox Business provided a no-up-front-cost, fiber optic Internet, data transfer and phone solution linking their three locations. The 20M Ethernet connection is fast, secure and reliable — allowing the credit union’s employees to be more efficient. With significant network investments in Tucson and Southern Arizona, Cox Business may be able to do the same for your company.
“Seamless functionality is critical here and we rely on Cox Business to deliver it.” – Matthew Beausoleil, Technology Services Manager
116 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
520-300-5267 coxbusinessaz.com
Internet. Data. Phone. TV.
www.BizTucson.com
BizSUCCESS
Building a World-Class Diagnostics Industry By Eric Swedlund Diagnostics – it’s a biosciences niche already considered world-class in Southern Arizona. Now narrowing the focus to tissue diagnostics is crucial in attracting and growing bioscience companies regionally. “We have probably the leading tissue diagnostics in the world in Tucson, so that certainly caused it to come to our attention,” said Dr. Raymond L. Woosley, a TREO consultant charged with helping to develop and refine the organization’s bioscience business development strategy. “There are a lot of people working on personalized medicine, a lot of people working on drug discovery, nanotechnology and different biotech platforms – but the one sub segment of biosciences that seems to fit best with what we have strength in is diagnostics,” Woosley said, with Ventana Medical Systems at the heart of the industry here. “Economic development groups around the country are all making a push for bioscience,” said Joe Snell, president and CEO of TREO. “It’s a hot industry that everyone wants – but to stand out, the Tucson region will have to target its energies. This is why we commissioned this strategy.” Said Woosley, “Everybody wants to focus on bioscience, and they’re outspending us in ways we could never compete. Arizona just doesn’t have the resources – but we do have some unique strengths, and with some wise investments, we can leapfrog ahead and focus on what’s going to be the benchmark technology of the future among the platforms we have strengths in. You can’t do everything.” Woosley is founder of AZCERT and Critical Path Institute, and former dean of the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine and VP for health sciences. He said TREO’s Leadership Exchange fact-finding trip to San Diego in www.BizTucson.com
May examined how that city developed into a mecca for bioscience companies and what lessons Tucson could apply toward similar goals. “In San Diego, we saw that platform technologies that started 30 years ago are the biggest blockbusters around,” he said. “What we heard and learned on the trip is don’t plan for today. Plan for the long run and look for technologies that are the basis for the future.” Woosley saw that San Diego’s successful future – which leaders there began planning for in the 1980s – was realized in part because of a specific focus on monoclonal antibodies, an emerging area of bioscience at that time that now accounts for a significant portion of therapies for cancer and arthritis. Monoclonal antibodies became a “gold rush,” according to one 2007
“
Plan for the long run and look for technologies that are the basis for the future. –
”
Dr. Raymond L. Woosley TREO consultant
study, and a 2012 report from a French pharmaceutical company predicts the worldwide market for monoclonal antibodies will reach $60 billion in 2014. San Diego’s bioscience industry is a roughly $9 billion a year economic engine, with 44,000 employees at more than 700 companies. Coordinated planning, sustained commitment and
capitalizing on the success of leading companies to generate a critical mass are all lessons for Tucson, Woosley said. The niche focus that worked so well for San Diego and other regions is a model for Tucson, Woosley said, only in this region, tissue diagnostics is the area that holds so much promise. Already in Southern Arizona, Ventana Medical Systems is setting the standard for tissue diagnostics, one of the foundations of a growing shift to more personalized medicine, and an era that targets treatments to a specific patient, based on genetic markers. As part of that trend, new drugs are developed along with companion diagnostic tests. “Diagnostics can and should be the core of bioscience expansion in Southern Arizona,’’ said Ventana Medical President Mara Aspinall. “Number one, we have strong diagnostics expertise at Ventana Medical and several startups in the region as well as the University of Arizona,” she said. “Number two, the capital investment needed to create and grow a diagnostics company is less than other types of healthcare investments. Our resident venture firms and angel groups have the financial capability to fund the initial investment rounds for these new diagnostic firms. Number three, Tucson is headquarters to DxInsights, an independent, nonpartisan nonprofit focused on diagnostics industry education and research.” Woosley said Ventana Medical has been a leader in companion diagnostics. “With diagnostics, we’re well positioned with Ventana and other start-up companies.If we plan now we can be in a really great position. Successful companies that are based on a cutting-edge platform technology are likely to have spin outs and be magnets to attract other companies.” continued on page 121 >>> Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 117
118 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com
BizSUCCESS
Key Industries on Growth Path By Eric Swedlund In addition to developing diagnostics as a growing field in the region’s biosciences industry, TREO’s three other main focus areas saw significant progress in 2012.
Aerospace & Defense
Already among the top five metro areas nationwide for its concentration of employment in aerospace & defense, Tucson saw continued progress in 2012. In September, California-based Integrated Technologies Group announced it will open a new manufacturing center in Tucson, with a 25,000-square-foot facility in Butterfield Business Park that will employ 150 to 200 people over the next 5 years, with a projected $265 million economic impact on the Tucson region. Raytheon Missile Systems secured several large federal contracts, including a $925 million contract in July for the development of the Standard Missile-3 Block IIA missile. Other major contracts for Tucson’s Raytheon branch included $349 million to provide heavy anti-tank missiles, $314 million for low-rate initial
production of Standard Missile-6 all-up rounds, $106 million for Aegis Radar Work, $139 million to provide engineering services for the Patriot Air and Missile Defense System and $51 million for Patriot Missile upgrades. Other aerospace & defense highlights for 2012 include a new two-year, multi-million-dollar contract for NP Photonics, and boosted revenue and new hiring at Bombardier Aerospace, B/E Aerospace and Ascent Aviation Services.
Solar
On its way to completing several large solar projects in 2012, Tucson Electric Power received the Utility of the Year award from the Solar Electric Power Association, which cited TEP’s continued investment in solar energy. TEP began 2012 with 45 megawatts of solar-generating capacity – enough to power 8,000 homes. By the end of 2013, the utility expects to surpass 250 MW of solar-generating capacity, enough to power 50,000 homes. TEP’s two biggest projects of the year were in the Avra Valley area, with a 25-MW photovoltaic array built by
TEP SOLON – Arrays at the Solar Zone www.BizTucson.com
SunEdison, and a nearby 32-MW DC – or 25-MW AC – plant built by NRG Energy and Tempe-based First Solar. Tucson Airport Authority in October received a $5.7 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration to design and construct the first phase of a 2.5-MW solar canopy array that will shade the main parking lot. In August, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base began work on a 14.5-MW solar array, the Air Force’s largest, which will provide more than one-third of the base’s electricity needs. On the research and development side, Tucson’s REhnu broke ground in January on the company’s first installation. The company’s innovative design comes from University of Arizona astronomer and optical scientist Roger Angel, who’s found a way to boost solar collection by using mirrors to concentrate sunlight on high-efficiency collectors. REhnu received enough investment to construct its first 20-kilowatt solar system, a prototype the company hopes will prove its concept to make solar energy economically competitive with fossil fuels, without government continued on page 121 >>>
Laser Phalanx illustration Winter Winter2013 2013 > > > BizTucson 119
NEW BUSINESSES TO THE REGION OptumRx Products manufactured or industries served:
OptumRx is an innovative pharmacy benefit management business overseeing the prescription drug benefits of commercial, Medicare and other governmental health plans, as well as those of employers and unions through a national network of 64,000 community pharmacies and state-of-the-art mail service pharmacies in California and Kansas. Projected Tucson full-time employees over 3 years:
400 in Tucson, 7,500 nationwide 5 years: 9,000 nationwide Why you chose Tucson: Tom Ferguson – Customer Service Director OptumRx
A robust, diverse labor market and welcoming business climate were the key drivers, along with a favorable regulatory climate. Other drivers were geographic location, quality of life for employees and proximity to pharmacy schools, drug wholesalers and shipping services. Involta Products manufactured or industries served:
Involta builds, owns and operates multi-tenant data centers in secondary markets throughout the United States. We use the internal resources necessary to build and operate data centers to become an extension of our customers’ IT departments. Involta provides data center services to domestic and international clients from a variety of industries, sizes and maturity. The Involta team is involved in building and acquiring physically secure facilities, providing toplevel IT services to clients, managing projects from start to completion, providing assistance to clients undergoing compliance audits and delivering complex data protection and management services. Projected Tucson full-time employees over 3 to 5 years: Unknown Troy Ward – Regional Sales Director Involta
Why you chose Tucson:
We came to Tucson at the request of a customer. They named three cities to evaluate and we felt Tucson best matched our business model and offered an excellent opportunity for us to serve Tucson and expand our footprint. American Tire Distributors Products manufactured or industries served:
Replacement tire market, servicing tire and automotive service retailers. We distribute virtually all major tire brands including Michelin, Goodyear, Bridgestone, Firestone, Continental, BFGoodrich, Uniroyal, Dunlop, Nexen, Kumho and many others. ATD also supplies custom wheels as well as tools and supplies used for tire and wheel installation. Projected Tucson full-time employees over 3 to 5 years:
Employee count will grow as sales rate grows
Why you chose Tucson: Steve Schrepfer – Tucson GM American Tire Distributors
Tucson is ATD’s second location in Arizona, which enables us to better service our customers in Southern Arizona and Southern New Mexico.
Integrated Technologies Group Products manufactured or industries served:
Anil Nanji – CEO Integrated Technologies Group
120 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
Custom engineered magnetic assemblies, electrical machines – such as motors, generators, and actuators – and specialty cables for the semiconductor, medical, energy, aerospace, industrial automation and research and development markets.
Projected Tucson full-time employees over 5 years:
150 to 200
Why you chose Tucson: Proximity to Nogales, Son., where we have a plant; positive business climate; proximity to the University of Arizona; good workforce skills; growing technical business base and favorable cost base. www.BizTucson.com
BizSUCCESS Accelr8
Diagnostics Industry
Industry Updates
didn’t push people out of the way, they brought people together.” One of the values TREO provides to business development prospects is connectivity with private sector leaders. Relocation decision makers want to see a strong private sector represented in development efforts before they invest billions into an economy, and prospective employers look for strong commitment from companies who will be their peers. TREO Chairman’s Circle and board members are closely engaged in the process and client meetings from the beginning, and many of these leaders met with Mehren on an ongoing basis to ensure him that the Tucson region was the right place to do business. Sites in and around Tucson and Oro Valley were scouted. Oro Valley was a logical locale, with Ventana Medical Systems and other bio techs already located at Innovation Park. But Mehren said they needed very specific, customized wet lab space – and quickly. Pima County Administrator Chuck Huckelberry, in on the hunt early, said it would have been impossible for the Town of Oro Valley to spend public money on lab space in a privately owned Innovation Park building. But he said the county had unoccupied space in its Herbert K. Abrams Public Health Center, 3950 S. Country Club Rd. Beyond the dedicated space, Huckelberry said the local groups needed to come up “with $1.4 million to get Accelr8 to move here.” That was the amount he said Denver was willing to come up with to keep Accelr8. “One thing public agencies can’t do is give gifts,” Huckelberry said. “And so the theory here is that it (the Abrams Health Center) is a public building – and it just so happens that the tenant improvements for the space Accelr8 wants to lease is about $1.4 million. How is that not a gift? It’s a short-term lease. When they move out, it’s an asset of the county and the hope is we’ll use it (again). It’s an incubator.” The Arizona Commerce Authority came in with a low-interest $750,000 loan for improvements and work is underway for an early 2013 completion. “Everybody had a hand in making it happen,” Snell said.
Ventana and Sanofi are the cornerstones of what Oro Valley Mayor Satish Hiremath hopes will become a cluster of companies working in similar fields at Innovation Park. “San Diego and the Boston area have been very successful with clustering. The Town of Oro Valley has taken a look at that and asked where these successful areas are and what they’ve done,” Hiremath said. “Companies are looking for synergies with other companies,” he continued. “By clustering you’d think it would create negative competition between these companies fighting for the same employees – but it increases exponentially the talent. They view it as a must, in order for their companies to grow. The whole clustering aspect of it is really genius. Dr. Woosley understands that it’s a positive to embrace for these companies.” Other areas of the Tucson region also have been working to attract bioscience companies, including Pima County with its recent build out of wet lab space for Accelr8 Technology Corporation, as well as the UA Science & Technology Park and the new BioPark, which recently completed infrastructure improvements. Woosley also set out to identify what emerging startup companies and relocating companies will need – primarily access to lab space, clinical collaborators and capital investment. Woosley said the push toward diagnostics is meant to guide specific economic development and recruitment efforts for TREO. It is not a statement that Tucson’s other industries are losing ground. A successful push in science and education will help attract talent needed to serve other industries, from diagnostics to optics, he said. “We have outstanding astronomy, optics and aerospace – and those are very important for something like bioscience. The sciences feed off each other and cross-fertilize,” Woosley said. The bioscience strategy will be highly prescriptive as to key actions to take to attract and grow new bio companies, and will be used to inform how TREO applies its resources to a competitive market. It will be complete and rolled out to the community in early 2013.
subsidies. Angel’s research group at the UA also received a $1.5 million Department of Energy grant in July to improve the mirror-making process for commercial applications. In June, Tucson’s SOLON Corporation won the prestigious Intersolar Award 2012 in the photovoltaic category, recognizing SOLON’s patent-pending plug-and-play commercial rooftop system as one of the most pioneering technologies of the year.
continued from page 115
continued from page 117
Biz
www.BizTucson.com
continued from page 119
Biz
Transportation & Logistics
TREO continues its push to market Tucson as a transportation and distribution hub that capitalizes on its unique geography near the Mexican border and California. In August, North-Carolina-based American Tire Distributors announced its purchase of a parcel at the southwest corner of Valencia Road and Alvernon Way to build a 125,000-square-foot distribution center. The center will be the company’s second Arizona facility and is designed to service tire retailers throughout the state, as well as New Mexico and California. In February, the Port of Guaymas, about 260 miles south of the U.S.-Mexico border, received its first shipment of container cargo. Tucson can serve the deep-water port as a hub for receiving and redistributing goods to the U.S. market. In August, Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild took his first official trip to the port city, with TREO President Joe Snell joining the mayor’s delegation. Biz Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 121
TREO INVESTORS Accelr8 Technology Corp. Arizona Canning/La Coste単a Arizona Commerce Authority Arizona State University BBVA Compass Bank BeachFleischman BizTucson Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arizona Bourn Partners CAID Industries Carondelet Health Network Casino Del Sol and Resort CBRE CenturyLink Chase COX Communications Cushman & Wakefield/PICOR Commercial Real Estate Services Diamond Ventures DPR Construction El Rio Community Health Center
Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold GEICO HDR Hecker & Muehlebach Hilton El Conquistador Resort Horizon Moving Systems HSL Properties Jim Click Automotive Team Lewis and Roca Milender White Construction Miramar Ventures Nova Home Loans Peto & Company CPAs Pima Association of Governments Pima Community College Pima County Providence Service Corporation Randstad Staffing & Recruiting Raytheon Missile Systems SCF Arizona Science Foundation Arizona SOLON Corporation
Sonoran Institute Southwest Gas Corporation Sundt Companies The Northern Trust Company The Temp Connection Tucson Airport Authority Tucson Association of Realtors TMC Healthcare Tucson New Car Dealers Association University of Arizona Science and Technology Park University of Arizona University of Phoenix UNS Energy Corp./ Tucson Electric Power U.S. Trust/Bank of America Vantage West Credit Union Ventana Medical Systems A member of the Roche Group Venture West Waste Management Wells Fargo Bank Wist Office Products
TREO STAFF (From left) Chance Agrella, Creative Services Manager; Laura Shaw, Senior VP, Marketing and Communications; Michael Guymon, VP of Regional Development; Daniela Gallagher, Economic Development Manager; Patricia Young, Administrative Services Manager; Joe Snell, President & CEO; Jerah Yassine, Executive Administrative Assistant; David Welsh, Executive VP; Cathy Casper, Senior VP, Administrative Services 122 BizTucson
<<<
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com
Photo: BalfourWalker.com
Investors
www.BizTucson.com
Winter 2013
>>>
BizTucson 123
2
5"
C
In Tucson, business lending comes with a personal touch
First our dedicated business bankers get to know you and your business. Then, they help you get the financing you need. We have lending options to help, including: • Commercial real estate loans • Construction loans • Equipment financing
• Vehicle financing • Lines of credit • And more
Financing your business may be one of the most important steps you’ll take. Talk to a Wells Fargo business banker today to see how we can help. Tucson Business Banking • 520-792-5352
wellsfargo.com All credit decisions subject to credit approval. © 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (752441_07052) <<<
124 BizTucson
Winter 2013
www.BizTucson.com