Economic Development Director, Micah Miranda, and I spent last week in Washington D.C. with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council to explore opportunities for emerging technologies in the greater Phoenix region.
We flew in a day early so that we could specifically meet with companies with a presence in Chandler such as Verizon, PayPal and CBRE. Each of these meetings were productive as we listened and discussed additional opportunities in Chandler.
We also visited Northrop Grumman with representatives from Mesa and Gilbert, other east valley communities where Northrop Grumman has a strong presence. They are currently expanding and building a 617,000 square foot manufacturing division headquarter in Chandler in the Price Corridor. I had opportunity to visit the Chandler base of Northrop Grumman the day I returned from D.C. as well.
Congressman Stanton, Senator McSally and a panel representing the United States Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA) shared updates on trade. These countries are tremendous trade partners and investors in Arizona.
While gridlock is still alive and well in DC, more seemed to be getting done than when I met with D.C. leaders on my last GPEC trip, two years ago.
Another benefit of attending this GPEC trip was engaging the dozens of Arizona leaders also participating. Chandler’s reputation and brand as a well- run, business friendly city that is a leader in technology was reiterated over and over again. We had great conversations with people such as Bruce Hoechner, the CEO of Rogers Corporation, a technology company that has had a presence in Chandler for 52 years. Rogers moved their headquarters from Rogers, Connecticut to Chandler a few years ago. Bruce has led Rogers into unprecedented growth with his leadership. He is excited about Chandler and continuing to grow here.
Whether it is in Chandler, Maricopa County or Washington D.C., it is a privilege and an honor to lead and serve in our community as Mayor.
For more information on doing business in Chandler, connect with our Economic Development Division.