Whether they are called myths or urban legends, I’ve heard a variety of them when it comes to data centers. In this section earlier this year, one of our stories addressed a few, such as claims they are overloading the electric grid and claiming endless amounts of drinking water. (Negative on both counts.) But with so many of the myths still making the rounds, allow me to put … [More]
Sky’s the Limit
Arizona Aerospace Summit to focus on making state a global aerospace hub
Separate roads, same destination. That was the challenge when the Arizona Technology Council was looking for a way to help accelerate collaboration and innovation throughout Arizona’s growing aerospace economy while highlighting the state’s expanding leadership in aerospace, aviation, space and defense. The solution debuts July 15 at the 2026 Arizona Aerospace Summit … [More]
Wow!
Worlds of Work creates pathways for high school students to find career fit
Dream or nightmare. Either can come true when it comes to finding a career that fits. And if it’s the less desirable outcome, “If only I knew” often is the resulting response. A surprise is the last thing anyone needs while career planning, especially when the journey begins at a young age. That’s where Worlds of Work comes in. Worlds of Work — WOW for short — is a program in … [More]
Reaching Out
Specialist makes Council’s case for projects throughout Arizona
For those who have attended meetings where decisions were made about a proposed data center, energy project or the like in Arizona, odds are one of the speakers addressing decision makers was Cepand Alizadeh, the Arizona Technology Council’s government relations specialist. In fact, odds are very good since he logged more than 6,500 miles in his car over the past year to get to … [More]
New Program Offers Coaching to Prepare for Next Roles as Leaders
It’s hard to prepare for a company’s future without the topic shifting to leadership by the “next generation.” Instead of adding one more item to the in-house to-do list, help is available through a new offering from the Arizona Technology Council. The development program Emerging Leaders Council is underway with a cohort that includes a chief operating officer; a director of … [More]
Welcome Aboard
New directors offer variety of experiences to benefit Council
Neil Calfee, executive director, Economic Development + Innovation Zones, Arizona State University Knowledge Enterprise; David Felix, senior manager of Regulatory Affairs, SRP; Bipin Jayaraj, chief digital and information officer, Benchmark; Bob Krakauer, chief financial officer, Verrus; and Tom Sullivan, chief operating officer, Air2O, are the newest members of the Arizona … [More]
Inaugural Arizona Manufacturing Showcase Sets a High Bar
When the Arizona Technology Council’s Arizona Manufacturing Catalyst Committee was looking for a way to bring the state’s manufacturers together, little did they realize the results would be more than memorable. “The committee was formed with the express purpose of creating a center of mass for the diverse manufacturing ecosystem to come together, define common goals and … [More]
Arizona Talks Essay on Civic Engagement
Who has the most powerful influence on a politician? Is it the lobbyist? Is it the special interest group? Is it another more powerful politician? It is none of those. The most powerful influence on a politician is an informed constituent. Even better is an informed small business owner constituent. I want to help teach you how to harness your power to influence elected … [More]
The Age of Answers: Is Your Business Ready to Be Recommended by AI?
For years, businesses focused on the “Age of Search.” They optimized websites, chased keywords and worked to appear on Google’s first page. But consumer behavior is shifting. We are entering the “Age of Answers.” Instead of typing fragmented keywords into a search bar, potential customers are asking complex, conversational questions to AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini and … [More]
Building the Next Generation of Arizona Suppliers
Building the Next Generation of Arizona Suppliers Arizona’s semiconductor industry is growing quickly, and small businesses have an important role to play. Since 2020, more than $200 billion has been invested in semiconductor projects across the state, creating opportunities not only in manufacturing but also in the services needed to build, operate and maintain these … [More]
The Power of Local Banking, Built on Relationships
In today’s global economy, financial relationships can easily feel distant and transactional. Yet for businesses across Arizona, where you choose to bank can play a meaningful role in longterm success and in the overall health of local communities. Local banking remains a powerful way to support growth, build trust and reinvest in the places where businesses and families live … [More]
Driving the Future: How Quality Training Fuels Arizona’s Supply Chain
At Roadmaster Drivers School, we do more than fill empty truck seats — we help students train to launch stable, life-changing careers. As a premier national commercial truck driving school, we serve individuals looking to train for a solid future and the carriers who need safe, reliable talent. While some of the industry struggles with volume-driven “CDL mills,” we stand out by … [More]
Structuring a Lead Generation Strategy
A verbatim excerpt from ASBA’s Forge Ahead curriculum
Small business owners often focus on getting more leads, but an effective lead generation strategy starts with understanding where a potential customer is in the buyer’s journey. The following excerpt from ASBA’s Forge Ahead: How to Generate Leads & Grow Your Business explains how to think through the awareness, consideration and decision stages. “The Awareness Stage At … [More]
Letter from the President & CEO
Community Update
Spring is an exciting time for our business community in Chandler and the East Valley. Our region continues to grow, innovate, and create opportunities for both businesses and the workforce. With thousands of new jobs projected in the coming years and strong growth across key industries like healthcare, advanced manufacturing and construction, workforce development remains … [More]
Investing in Chandler’s Future: Why Federal Transportation Partnership Matters Now
Every day in Chandler, transportation infrastructure quietly powers our economy and quality of life. It’s the commute along the Loop 202, the steady flow of goods moving through the I-10 corridor and the reliable access that allows employees to reach major job centers like Intel and the Price Road Corridor. For our small businesses, it means shipments arriving on time and … [More]
Celebrating Excellence: The Chandler Chamber Community Awards Return
Each year, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce brings together the very best of the local business community for an evening of recognition, connection and celebration. On May 28, that tradition continues with the 39th Annual Community Awards, themed Denim & Diamonds, a reflection of both the strength and sophistication that define Chandler. Set to take place at 5:00 p.m. at … [More]
Internships That Work: Building Your Talent Pipeline
As someone born and raised in downtown Chandler and a proud Chandler High School graduate, I’ve seen how this community rallies around its own. Local businesses, schools, and nonprofits share a common goal: nurturing talent so it can grow, stay, and thrive right here at home. Internships are one of the most effective ways to achieve that. For students, they provide hands-on, … [More]
2026 Women of Chandler: The Leaders Shaping a City’s Future
In a city known for innovation, business growth, and a strong sense of community, the influence of women has become one of Chandler’s most defining strengths. Presented by the Chandler Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with Chandler City Lifestyle, Women of Chandler is more than an event. It is a reflection of the women driving progress behind the scenes and at the forefront, … [More]
