Arizona Public Media Marks New Era with Opening at the UA Tech Park at The Bridges

Arizona Public Media (AZPM) officially opened the Paul & Alice Baker Center for Public Media on May 1, marking a significant milestone with a ribbon-cutting celebration attended by community leaders, partners and supporters. The 61,500-square-foot facility represents a transformational investment in the future of public media in Southern Arizona.

Designed as a state-of-the-art broadcast and production hub, the Baker Center brings together advanced television, radio and podcast studios alongside flexible community spaces. Features include a digital conference center, rooftop deck and the signature 5,000-square-foot Studio A, which serves as both a professional production studio and a venue for public events.

AZPM describes the building as a "modern public square," emphasizing accessibility, civic dialogue and community connection. It is the first purpose-built facility in the organization's nearly 70-year history.

Located at the UA Tech Park at The Bridges, the center adds to a growing ecosystem where innovation and community engagement intersect. For the UA Tech Park, the addition reinforces its role as a place where organizations like AZPM can expand their impact and connect with the broader region.

TREND REPORT

This issue of the TREND Report, which focuses on economic development in Southern Arizona, features a contribution from Carol Stewart. Her university-based economic development perspective is part of a broader discussion that highlights the importance of interconnected systems and regional alignment. A central theme of the report is that while policy sets the conditions for growth, economic development transforms those conditions into jobs, investment and opportunity. The report also underscores the importance of regional coordination and the role of innovation ecosystems in turning ideas into thriving companies.

Exploring STEM

The UA Tech Park welcomed young women to explore real-world STEM through the Amistades program. From SARSEF-led nature journaling to behind-the-scenes tours of IBM and the UA Tech Park, the day offered hands-on learning. A highlight of the day was also a powerful panel discussion, where accomplished women shared their journeys into STEM. The half-day event offered insight and encouragement to help future leaders explore careers and connect with mentors.

Emagine Solutions Technology  

Emagine Solutions Technology, a startup supported by the University of Arizona Center for Innovation, was recently featured on KGUN 9 for its maternal health work. The Journey Pregnancy App provides personalized tools to support expectant mothers before and after birth. The company's progress underscores Tech Parks Arizona's commitment to advancing homegrown innovation that benefits communities and the economy.

Tech Recycling Event

Sustainability is a core priority at the UA Tech Park. During our recent tech recycling event, we collected 800 pounds of electronic material, helping keep e-waste out of landfills and ensuring responsible recycling. Thank you to the entire campus who participated and helped to make a positive environmental impact.

Principal For A Day

UA Tech Parks' CEO Carol Stewart stepped into the role "Principal for the Day" at La Esperanza Elementary in Sunnyside Unified School District. Partnering with Principal Karina Paco, Stewart experienced firsthand the energy, leadership and heart that drive a school community. The day was coordinated by Tucson Values Teachers, an initiative of the Southern Arizona Leadership Council that connects business leaders with educators to strengthen support for PreK-12 schools.

Fred Boice

Fred Boice's legacy of leadership and service leaves a lasting imprint on our community. As past Board Chair of Campus Research Corporation, Fred provided thoughtful guidance and steadfast support to Tech Parks Arizona, helping advance our mission of university-based economic development. His humility, integrity and commitment to excellence strengthened the foundation upon which Tech Parks Arizona continues to grow and thrive.

Nicole Woodruff

Client Services Coordinator, University of Arizona Center for Innovation

Nicole is an administrative and client services professional with over 25 years of experience supporting fast-paced, people-focused environments. In her role as Client Services Coordinator for the University of Arizona, she serves as a trusted point of contact who helps services run smoothly and supports positive client experiences.

Fun Fact: Nicole is a self-proclaimed music junkie and can usually name a song after hearing just one note!

UIIN Conference 2026

Join global leaders June 15-17 in Stockholm for the UIIN Conference, "Collaborating for a Better World: From Ideas to Scaled Impact". The conference will bring together higher education leaders, researchers, policymakers and industry executives to advance university-industry interactions. On June 17, leaders from Tech Parks Arizona and University of Arizona Center will present Bridging Global Innovation Ecosystems: FDI, Soft Landings and Transpacific Collaboration.

After5 Tech Mixer

Join Arizona Tech Council members on June 17 for an after5 Tech Mixer at Beacon Group. Step inside an organization creating opportunities for people with disabilities through employment, training and community connections.

BIO5 Inspiring Careers

Join University of Arizona's BIO5 on July 1 for an engaging evening dedicated to exploring opportunities in research and STEM fields. This event offers a unique chance to learn about diverse career pathways, connect with professionals and gain valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in science and innovation.

Building 9072

Building 9072 features 115,632 square feet of flexible, multi-use space suitable for office, warehouse, prototyping, assembling, R&D and more. With existing infrastructure already in place, companies can easily customize the environment to meet their exact operational needs. Whether your business requires a turnkey, plug and play setup or highly specialized facilities, this well-established park provides an ideal setting for innovation and expansion.

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