Arizona State University is playing a pivotal role in securing Arizona’s standing as the ideal setting for fast-growing, high-tech industries. Home to the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, the nation’s largest and most comprehensive engineering school, ASU is producing an increasing number of skilled and talented graduates who can help support the state’s growth in key sectors like manufacturing, clean energy and environmental engineering.
For years, the university has been involved in strategic efforts with academic, governmental and economic development leaders to diversify and spur economic growth in Arizona through research advancement, faculty hiring, industry engagement and workforce development.
Entrepreneurship has been another key factor in ASU’s mission to enhance its impact in the state. By cultivating entrepreneurial talent and connecting venture developers with the facilities to advance their work, Arizona can enjoy more job opportunities and rise to the forefront of technological innovation.
The NEI Venture Challenge and the Science and Technology Center Entrepreneurial Fellowship program are two programs launched in recent years to provide ASU faculty and students with opportunities to earn support for their ASU-based spinout companies that align with key areas identified as potential high-growth sectors in the state. Zachary Holman, the vice dean of research and innovation in the Fulton Schools, says success comes from elevating the community.
“We take responsibility for our place and for the communities that we serve,” Holman says. “The university’s culture is different from that of many other universities and that culture comes out through the way we educate and do research. Opportunities like the NEI Venture Challenge and STC Entrepreneurial Fellowships are giving faculty and students the resources and training to change the world.”