The U.S. Commerce Department and Natcast, the National Semiconductor Technology Center operator, have selected Arizona as the site for a flagship semiconductor research and development facility. Located at Arizona State University’s Research Park in Tempe, the lab will focus on prototyping and advanced packaging, addressing a critical gap in the U.S. semiconductor … [More]
Arizona Secures Major Semiconductor Research Lab
Transformative potential includes attracting private-sector investments
Foam Packaging Specialties: ‘What Matters is Inside.’
What began as a small family business has transformed into a key player in the semiconductor supply chain. Its story is not just about growth — it's about foresight, adaptability and commitment to quality in a high-stakes industry. Founded in 1972, Foam Packaging Specialties started as a small operation serving local businesses with packaging solutions. But years before … [More]
Insider Threat Awareness
Insider threat awareness is such a significant aspect of cybersecurity that the National Counterintelligence and Security Center in partnership with the National Insider Threat Task Force and other U.S. government agencies designated a month every year to the issue. “One of the most significant insider threats facing organizations today is the challenge of properly managing … [More]
Historic First for the U.S. – Advanced Chip Production Begins in Arizona
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., the world’s leading chipmaker, has officially begun producing advanced four-nanometer chips at its Vistancia facility near Phoenix. This milestone marks the first time these cutting-edge chips are being manufactured on U.S. soil — a significant moment not just for Arizona but for the nation. TSMC’s Arizona facility is the first of … [More]
Meta Opens First Phase of Mesa Data Center
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, celebrated the grand opening of its state-of-the-art data center in Mesa, Arizona. This milestone marks a significant investment in the region, with the facility spanning over 2.5 million square feet across five buildings. The project, first announced in August 2021, represents an investment exceeding $1 billion. The Mesa Data Center is … [More]
Arizona-Based Cybersecurity Firm to Provide Cyber-Protection at WMPO 16th Hole
Lumifi, a leading cybersecurity technology company, announces its role as the official cybersecurity partner and 16th hole sponsor for the 2025 Waste Management Phoenix Open (WMPO). Starting January 2025, Lumifi will provide enterprise-level cybersecurity services for the Thunderbird Charities, the organizer of the iconic PGA TOUR event, known for its record-breaking crowds of … [More]
6 Ways to Protect Your Identity from a Data Breach
Data Privacy week starts January 27 to raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding data. The rise of identity theft cases continue to grow each year as more people rely on technology to store personal information and data. Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers the following tips for consumers to protect personal information and reduce theft risks from a breach. 1. … [More]
GridStor Announces Acquisition of Arizona Battery Energy Storage Project
GridStor, a developer and operator of utility-scale battery energy storage systems, announced that it has acquired a 100 MW / 400 MWh battery storage project in Arizona from Capacity Power Group (CPG). GridStor’s acquisition and plan to construct battery storage in Arizona comes during a critical time for the region. Rising power demand from residential and large industrial … [More]
New Partnership to Revolutionize Homebuilding for Sustainability Homebuilder
Mandalay Homes, a national leader in energy-efficient and sustainable homebuilding, announced a partnership with Frametec, a pioneering manufacturing and framing services provider. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in redefining how Mandalay homes are built, focusing on unparalleled quality, construction timelines, and meaningful carbon … [More]
FedTech Launches CleanTech Accelerator to Drive Innovation in Clean Energy
FedTech has announced the Four Corners CleanTech Cluster, a program designed to empower small businesses and entrepreneurs across Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah to advance clean energy innovation. The Four Corners CleanTech Cluster is funded in part through a Contract with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Part of the SBA's nationwide Regional Innovation Clusters … [More]
Avnet Insights Survey: Is There Endless Opportunity for AI in Product Design?
Annual survey finds engineers are unsure of where AI will make the most impact – because they see its potential everywhere
Engineers are looking at the opportunity for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in product development with cautious optimism as many are still assessing in which areas of their work AI will have the greatest impact. This is according to Avnet’s fourth annual Avnet Insights survey, which has been keeping a pulse on how engineers are responding to the market – and looking ahead – … [More]
Tech to Help Better Manage Uncertainty
Addressing uncertainty is a critical challenge for leaders today as geopolitical tensions, shifting consumer preferences, talent disruptions, evolving regulations, and rapid technological advancements increasingly complicate the business landscape. According to Learning to Manage Uncertainty, With AI, a new report by MIT Sloan Management Review and Boston Consulting Group, … [More]
JX Advanced Metals USA Opens State-of-the-Art Facility in Mesa
JX Advanced Metals USA, Inc. (JX USA), formerly known as JX Nippon Mining & Metals USA, Inc., celebrated the grand opening of its new manufacturing plant in Mesa, Ariz., with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by company leaders, local officials and representatives from the Arizona Commerce Authority. Located at the northeast corner of Germann and Crismon roads, the … [More]
Feedback: January 2025
Q: What AI application(s) have you adopted into your business operations over the past year? What are some of its benefits and/or what are some challenges you encountered? Dr. Tricia Loscher Chief Curator Desert Caballeros Western Museum Sector: Arts & Culture I have utilized tools such as ChatGPT and Grammarly.com as a museum curator and author for my professional … [More]
Semiconductors Drive Arizona’s Electric Vehicle Market
Famous for its snowbirds, the Grand Canyon and retirees on ATVs, Arizona is swiftly carving out a new and unexpected identity blending its historic identity as the "Copper State" with its expanding semiconductor ecosystem. This, coupled with Arizona's long history of manufacturing, has attracted an entirely new industry to the state: electric car companies. Electric … [More]
AI, Arizona Investments and the Uncertain Road Ahead
Considerations around the semiconductor industry
With 2024 coming to a close, the semiconductor industry has had a mixed year. Artificial intelligence was the key market driver, sending graphic processor units (GPUs) and high-bandwidth memory (HBM) to record revenues. Mobile phones and AI PCs failed to respond to the hype, and automotive and industrial chips experienced an undersupply hangover. The strong AI and advanced … [More]
Tech’s Role in Benefits Literacy and Employee Satisfaction
In a survey conducted in November 2023, the disconnect between employee expectations and employers was pulled into sharp focus. Despite employers putting significant effort and budget into offering quality benefits, they continue to be underutilized, leading to disengagement and affecting retention rates. Just one example: Forty-nine percent of employers surveyed offer … [More]
ASU-Led Southwest Advanced Prototyping Hub Awarded $21.3M for Second Year of Funding for Microelectronics Projects
The Southwest Advanced Prototyping (SWAP) Hub, led by Arizona State University, has been awarded $21.3 million in Year 2 funding under the CHIPS and Science Act to continue its work advancing the rebirth of America’s microelectronics industry. ASU will receive $18.6 million, with an additional $2.7 million going to Sandia National Laboratories, a lead partner in the SWAP … [More]
