For nearly two decades, Chris Camacho has been a driving force behind Arizona’s economic renaissance. Rising from business development roles in Yuma to helming GPEC as President & CEO since 2015, he has built a reputation for visionary leadership and formidable achievement. Now, he embarks on a new journey—joining Axon in a senior executive capacity, bringing his deep expertise to the company’s expanding global headquarters in Scottsdale.
Camacho announced Thursday, on his LinkedIn, a post stating, “After more than 17 years working to grow and elevate the Greater Phoenix economy, I’ve made the tough decision to transition from GPEC and join Axon senior leadership — an opportunity to continue contributing to Arizona’s growth and innovation economy in a new capacity.”
At GPEC, Camacho led unprecedented regional growth. Under his leadership, GPEC attracted nearly 600 companies, created over 110,000 jobs, and facilitated $59.9 billion in capital investment. Standout wins include marquee names like TSMC, Apple, LG Energy Solution, Microsoft, Amazon, Garmin, and General Motors. During his tenure, GPEC was twice recognized as the top global economic development organization, including in 2021, and maintained a streak of national accolades. In 2024 alone, the council facilitated 50 corporate expansions, adding 6,600 jobs and over $2 billion in investments, and marking the milestone of GPEC’s 1,000th project.
Camacho has also built a legacy of civic leadership. As a member of national and regional boards—from the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to the U.S. Investment Advisory Council—he has shaped public‑policy and global investment strategies. He was honored as one of North America’s top 50 economic developers multiple times, named a “Top Leader” by Greater Phoenix In Business Magazine in 2024 and twice called upon to guest edit by leading two issues of the monthly magazine. His contributions extended into Arizona’s innovation ecosystem via board roles with the Flinn Foundation and Partnership for Economic Innovation, among others.
Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority said in a statement, “My heartfelt congratulations to Chris on an incredible tenure in Arizona economic development! Chris and GPEC have been tremendous partners of the ACA, helping drive historic wins that have transformed our economy.” Watson added, “It’s been a privilege to work with Chris for more nearly 20 years, and I appreciate all he’s done for the Phoenix region and Arizona. I wish him all the best in his exciting new role!”
Chris’s unwavering belief in intelligent, inclusive growth is best expressed in his advocacy for Axon’s new global HQ in Scottsdale. He championed the project’s potential to add 5,500 high‑wage jobs, generate $40 billion in economic impact, and strengthen local infrastructure—all without burdening taxpayers. His defense of Axon during community pushback reflected his core principles: strategic, smart development that uplifts residents.
Now entering a senior leadership role at Axon, Camacho stands ready to influence the company’s next growth phase. With Axon planning a $1.3 billion investment in their new Scottsdale campus, his appointment signals a deep alignment: both are committed to innovation-infused community impact. At Axon, he is expected to lead efforts in site planning, municipal strategy, stakeholder alignment, and international expansion—leveraging his talent in economic development and cross-sector collaboration.
Chris himself noted the importance of balancing industrial expansion with community needs—this mindset will be crucial as he ensures Axon’s growth is sustainable, equitable, and locally resonant.
