Sandra Watson

BizTUCSONApril 19, 2026

2 minutes read

President & Chief Executive Officer
Arizona Commerce Authority

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

As Arizona’s only statewide economic development organization, the ACA works closely with regional partners to strengthen our economy. Southern Arizona plays a critical role in the state’s economic success – the region is home to aerospace and defense, battery, bioscience, semiconductor, manufacturing, and technology, and more. Partners like the University of Arizona, Tech Parks Arizona, Startup Tucson, and more play integral roles in advancing the innovation ecosystem – highlighting the region’s attractiveness as a hub for emerging technologies and cutting-edge companies. The ACA works closely with local industry leaders and our ecosystem partners to support business success and enhance regional competitiveness.

In March, we were honored to join Gov. Hobbs and leaders at Pima Community College to launch the Advanced Manufacturing Future48 Workforce Accelerator. Supported by a $3.2 million investment from the ACA, this new 10,000-square-foot Flexible Industry Training Lab offers hands-on training using the same advanced manufacturing equipment local employers rely on in their facilities. In February, we were proud to join the UA to celebrate the expansion of the Nano Fabrication Center semiconductor cleanroom, which will prepare students for the state’s booming tech sector while supporting faculty research and industry collaboration on chip fabrication, optical devices and quantum computing systems. The center is supported by a $35.5 million ACA investment.

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

Arizona is experiencing unprecedented economic momentum, fueled by growth in manufacturing, technology and AI, aerospace and defense, bioscience, semiconductors, and more. As a destination for global companies, Arizona continues to create high-quality jobs and grow high-value industries.

In 2025, the ACA and local economic partners won 90 competitive projects from companies committed to creating 27,749 projected new jobs and investing over $34 billion in the state. In addition, we are very excited to partner with organizations throughout Southern Arizona to host the inaugural Arizona Tech Week, in April, which brings together tech luminaries, investors, founders, and startup leaders for engaging keynotes, panels, social networking engagements, pitch competitions, and exclusive Arizona experiences. The first-of-its-kind conference in Arizona emphasizes the state’s prominent role in the global tech ecosystem.

How can The Chamber help you going forward?

It’s vital we work closely with all of our partners across the state who bring regional knowledge, expertise and collaboration — including The Chamber of Southern Arizona. We’re grateful for our long-time partnership with The Chamber as we work together to attract more companies to invest in Southern Arizona and create quality jobs here.