Tucson’s Economic Forecast: Poised for Growth E5
Known for its plentiful sunshine, natural beauty and diverse culture, Tucson also is home to world-class universities and unique resources that make it an ideal place to launch a startup or operate a business. While it’s no secret that Tucson has long led the way for pioneering developments in the aerospace and defense sector, this Southern Arizona city is also a leader in bioscience, healthcare, optics and mining. And with a close proximity to Mexico, Tucson holds a special geographic position for businesses engaged in international trade.
In the Arizona Technology Council’s recent podcast, distinguished Tucson economic development leaders Joe Snell, President & CEO of Sun Corridor Inc. and Kevin Burke, City of Tucson Economic Initiatives Deputy Director, discussed the key drivers strengthening Tucson’s competitiveness, how Sun Corridor and the City of Tucson have been instrumental in accelerating economic growth in the region, the initiatives to attract, expand and retain businesses in Southern Arizona, and the factors fostering the innovation, technology and creativity needed to be a world-class tech hub.
If you want to learn exactly why Tucson was recently named as one of the top 10 U.S. cities best positioned to recover from the pandemic, as well as the programs, strategies and initiatives guiding and impacting Tucson’s long-term regional economy, this podcast episode is for you!
Sun Corridor Inc. brings together the interests of a broad range of private, public, academic and nonprofit groups to promote Southern Arizona as a single economic entity.
Dedicated to coordinating all economic development activities and programs within the Southern Arizona mega-region under one umbrella, Sun Corridor facilitates job and investment growth in the region. The organization’s work also includes creating a competitive environment that allows primary employers to flourish and succeed.
As the President & CEO of Sun Corridor Inc., Joe Snell brings over 30 years of experience leading regional private economic development organizations in communities of various sizes. His knowledge on building strategic, competitive and balanced economic-development efforts have resulted in Snell being nationally recognized for creating strong economies. In 2015, Snell led the re-engineering of the organization resulting in a name change, new brand and expanded mission.
Snell is a frequently requested speaker and lecturer on economic development and competitive issues. He is a former faculty member of the Arizona Economic Development Course and the International Economic Development Council. In 2019, Snell received the Global Visionary Award from BizTucson Magazine. In 2017 and 2018, Snell was recognized by Arizona Business Magazine for his leadership and contributions to the Arizona economy.
Follow Sun Corridor on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
At the forefront of innovation, Tucson has become increasingly attractive to new corporate expansions and relocations as companies shy away from large, urban areas. To strengthen its position, City of Tucson’s Economic Development leaders are working to ensure the right assets are in place for future economic growth.
City leaders are leveraging Tucson’s advantages and appeal to strategize across all industry sectors on emerging trends and changes. With its lower costs, business-friendly environment and talented tech workforce, it’s clear that Tucson is growing as an innovative, tech powerhouse.
As Economic Initiatives Deputy Director for the City of Tucson, Kevin Burke serves the Tucson community by promoting sustainable, high-quality growth and economic development to positively impact the economic vitality and long-term success of the city.
In his role, Burke focuses on collaboration with regional partners, including Pima County, Sun Corridor, and the local business community. Prior to joining the City of Tucson team in 2019, Kevin’s professional experience includes positions in state and local government management in Texas and Arizona.
Born and raised in Tucson, he earned a Master of Science in City and Regional Planning from the University of Arizona and Bachelor of Arts in Business and Public Administration from the University of Puget Sound.
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About the Show 
AZ TechCast is dedicated to covering innovation and technology in Arizona and beyond.
Through the art of connected conversation, AZ TechCast’s guests will share their expertise, success stories, news and analysis about the region’s leading startups, companies and emerging technologies, as well as the latest industry trends and critical issues propelling the state’s growing technology ecosystem.
About Your Hosts
Steve Zylstra serves as president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council, a role he assumed in 2007. He is responsible for strategy, operations, finance and policy development. Zylstra is a vocal spokesman for the value technology can provide in raising social and economic standards in Arizona.
Zylstra serves on numerous councils, committees and boards, was named “Leader of the Year, Technology,” by the Arizona Capitol Times, and “Most Admired Leader” by the Phoenix Business Journal. In addition, he was awarded an honorary doctorate of science in technology from the University of Advancing Technology in Tempe, Ariz.
Zylstra earned a bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering technology from Western Michigan University.
Karen Nowicki is a successful author, speaker and the creator of Deep Impact Leadership™ and SoulMarks Coaching™. She is a two-time recipient of the prestigious national Choice Award® for her book and personal development retreat. Karen was crowned the first-ever “Mompreneur of the Year” Award in 2010 for the southwestern states. She was recognized for her leadership, business acumen, and work-life balance.
Karen has been an expert guest on regional TV and radio shows, including Fox Phoenix Morning Show, Sonoran Living, Good Morning Arizona, The Chat Room, and Mid-Day Arizona. She has been a regular contributor to many print and online magazines – publishing articles and blogs for business and education.
In addition to working with private coaching clients, Karen is also the Owner & President of Phoenix Business RadioX. The Business RadioX Network amplifies the voice of business – serving the Fortune 500,000, not just the Fortune 500. Phoenix Business RadioX helps local businesses and professional associations get the word out about the important work they’re doing to serve their market, profession, and community.
Of all the experiences Karen has had the privilege of participating in over her vast career, she shares that Phoenix Business RadioX is a pinnacle adventure!
Connect with Karen on LinkedIn and follow Phoenix Business RadioX on Facebook and Instagram.
About Our Sponsor
The Arizona Technology Council, Arizona’s only statewide organization serving the technology sector, fosters a climate of innovation to enhance technology in Arizona.
A trusted resource in strengthening Arizona’s technology industry, the Council proactively eliminates impediments that companies face, accelerates the entrepreneurial mindset in the state’s expanding innovation ecosystem, and works to create a destination for companies to be, thrive and stay.
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