Tucson's dynamic industry sectors converge to drive innovation and economic growth. Our region boasts strengths in aerospace and defense, biosciences, optics, mining and renewable energy. These industries are supported by robust organizations such as the Arizona Technology Council and the Southern Arizona Leadership Council, which foster collaboration among tech leaders. Additionally, strong research and talent from higher education institutions, including the University of Arizona, play a crucial role in helping these industries thrive. Together, we cultivate a thriving ecosystem that empowers businesses to excel.

Aerospace and Defense

Southern Arizona’s clear blue skies, year-round flying weather, and dry climate have attracted aerospace-related businesses since the early 1900s. These qualities contribute to Tucson and Southern Arizona having the fifth-highest concentration of aerospace and defense employees in the country.

Tucson is ranked a top-10 metro for aerospace manufacturing due to its highly concentrated aerospace product and parts manufacturing sector, which has an 8.62 location quotient. This ratio compares a region’s industrial activity level to the rest of the United States. The location quotient means that Tucson is 8.62 times more concentrated in the aerospace product and parts manufacturing industry than the average of all metropolitan statistical areas across the country.

Bioscience

Southern Arizona has become a prominent hub for bioscience, diagnostics, and medical device industries, and is anchored by cutting-edge research institutions, access to funding, and to its educated workforce. The presence of homegrown industry giants such as Roche Tissue Diagnostics further enhances Tucson's reputation in bioscience. Supportive organizations like the Arizona Bioindustry Association (AZBio) foster growth and innovation within the local bioscience

Optics

Gaining notoriety as Optics Valley, Tucson is home to a high concentration of optics companies, as well as research activity tied to the University of Arizona and several astronomical observatories located in the mountains of Southern Arizona. The Tucson region is a leader in Arizona’s $3 billion optics industry. Optics Valley, a committee of the Arizona Technology Council, is one of the leading clusters for optics, photonics, and astronomy in the world.

Mining

Tucson has long been a hub for copper mining, a cornerstone of Arizona's economy for over a century. Today, the city leads the way in mining innovation, driving advancements in automation, sustainability, and technology. With strong ties to research institutions and industry leaders, Tucson is shaping the future of mining on a global scale while maintaining its rich legacy.

Learn more about Arizona Mining

Renewable Energy

Recognized globally as a location of choice for solar energy activities, Southern Arizona’s emerging solar industry promises a bright future. For 85% of the year, the sun shines in Tucson, making it the perfect place for testing, evaluation, and demonstration of solar technologies. Tech Parks Arizona is focused on developing innovation hubs that unite industry and research to advance leading-edge technology. One of the key initiatives underway is the Solar Zone at the UA Tech Park, one of the largest multi-technology solar testing and evaluation sites at the grid level. The Solar Zone is an innovative strategic partnership between the University of Arizona and Tucson Electric Power, where the renewable energy power generated from 10 companies produces a total of 25 MW of power.

Learn more about the Solar Zone