University of Arizona Steward Observatory Expands Once Again at the UA Tech Park

Steward Observatory is once again scaling up its operations at the UA Tech Park after its original move here in 2019. The observatory is increasing its footprint by approximately 25,000 square feet for offices and lab space to complement the 5,000 square feet of testing and evaluation space, allowing the 50 person team to expand its electrical-optical research and development activities. Researchers and technicians from the Steward Observatory are currently working on projects including telescopes and optical systems for scientific research in areas such as: surveys, space awareness, asteroids, studying objects near Earth and general astronomical observations. With the substantial team in place, new contracts and expanded facilities, the Steward team is making significant advancements on big projects like the Giant Magellan Telescope test cell and mirror support system for the Tokyo Atacama Observatory Telescope. The innovative UA Tech Park campus provides the perfect platform with its ability to rapidly expand operations to accommodate their high growth while providing secure spaces that meet contractual obligations for federal organizations.

Applied Energetics Awarded a $3.9M In Government Contracts

Applied Energetics was recently awarded a total of $3.9M in government funding. They received a $3.8M grant from the Department of the Navy, Office of Research for the development and testing of infrared technology. On the heels of that announcement, they were also awarded a $172,000 Phase I Small Business Technology Transfer contract from the U.S. Army for research and development of a directed energy system.

AZ Spotlighted in Site Selection Magazine

Site Selection Magazine highlighted the State of Arizona in its most recent edition. Arizona was reported as No. 2 in the nation over the next decade for projected tech job growth. Thanks to UACI's successful incubator launch at Biosphere 2, the world is seeing how the University of Arizona takes innovation and invention seriously, pushing forward to create both business growth and technology advancements. UACI is Arizona's leading startup incubator contributing to the bustling startup scene that exists in Tucson, one of the main drivers making Arizona a tech mecca.

Canadian Startups Soft Land in Tucson

Our incubator, UA Center for Innovation, welcomed two Canadian startups this month through the Global Advantage Soft Landings program. The program gives international businesses the necessary accommodations for smooth entry into the United States. Jason Trask CEO of Ecobloc and Andrew Leaman Manger of Commercial Operations for Longan Vision landed and immediately got plugged in, learning an extensive amount about the business opportunities that can be utilized through UACI and Tech Parks Arizona.

BizTucson Next Gen Leader - Jessa Turner

The Tech Park's Arizona's own Director of Communications, Jessa Turner was named in BizTucson Magazine as a Rising Star and one of 2022's 22 Next Gen Leaders. Jessa has brought her leadership and expertise to Tech Parks Arizona for the past 18 years. BizTucson's Rising Stars to watch list recognizes leaders and visionaries who are business builders, changemakers, community creators and problem solvers working toward a prosperous future for Tucson and Southern Arizona.

Carol Stewart Named a Woman of Impact

The University of Arizona Office of Research, Innovation and Impact announced the Women of Impact Awards as an annual effort to embrace and empower women researchers, innovators, and community organizers, who through their work at the university, are laying the ground work for a brighter future. Carol Stewart, Associate Vice President was selected to be part of the Inaugural class which is comprised of 30 bold and forward-thinking leaders from across the University of Arizona Campus.

People of the Park:

Sara Coronado

Sara has worked at IBM since 2006 and has played an integral role in the testing of IBM's high-performance and high-capacity storage systems. She started her career at IBM as an intern, then came on board full time as a Systems Level test engineer. She has since moved on to a staff engineering role on the Performance Analytics team, working with teams both locally and globally in efforts to analyze IBM software storage solutions ensuring its continued high-end functionality for customers. She is a member of IBM Tucson's Hispanic Business Resource Group, and also co-president of IBM Tucson's Women's Network.

FEATURED SPACE

Building 9070

Interested in growing your business? Be part of an environment built with your purpose in mind. Building 9070 provides the perfect platform for your business to scale rapidly based on business demands. This turn-key space provides an open floor plan with office and meeting spaces around the perimeter fully built out. Companies have the versatility to customize their own space to suit their needs, all while benefiting from the well-established university research park. 

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Tech Parks Arizona creates interactive ground, which generates, attracts and supports technology companies and talent in alignment with the goals of the University of Arizona.