Shawn Blubaum

Regional Director Tucson
Sundt Construction

What opportunities do you see for your business here in the next several years? 

We have a tremendous opportunity for business and growth here in Southern Arizona with the right mindset. Tucson and the surrounding metro are a diverse marketplace with untapped potential in both the downtown area and surrounding suburbs.  A responsible, sustainable approach to development from local leaders can spur growth for the entire region.      

What issues keep you up at night?

Short-term decisions that have long-term impacts on new businesses deciding to come to the region. Things like passing the RTA Next and investing in our roads, airports, and overall infrastructure have major impacts on the amount and type of business that decides to come to Southern Arizona. A forward-thinking approach with smart investments for the overall good of the region will attract additional business growth, including the high-paying local jobs that really help move the needle for our local economy.    

Are there any exciting updates in your industry or business you want to highlight?

The construction industry in Tucson and throughout Arizona continues to provide exciting career opportunities, both professional and craft, for individuals in all trades.  The continued investment in rapid, controlled growth of advanced technology, aviation and data center markets in the state has created thousands of good-paying jobs for ambitious, hard-working people.  These are jobs that careers can be built on for individuals and families, regardless of the level of education, and should be valued as an exciting key driver of our future regional success.     

How can The Chamber help you going forward?

Continue to work with local business and leaders to promote the mindset at every corner that Tucson is an area of pro-growth and development. Our population growth is largely driven by transplants from other areas, so the outside narrative is vital to our future success.  It’s on all of us to build the narrative, create buzz and promote Tucson as the destination of choice for both new business and new additions to our local workforce.  We all know Southern Arizona is a fantastic place to live and work, let’s let everyone else know too!  

Photo by Brent G. Mathis

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