Phoenix AZ – February 22, 2026 | By STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What is Ryan Touhill’s vision for Phoenix’s economy?
Ryan Touhill, Phoenix’s new Economic Development Director, articulated a confident vision for deliberate growth, downtown revitalization, and workforce expansion.
When did Ryan Touhill officially start his role in Phoenix?
Ryan Touhill officially commenced his role as Phoenix’s Community and Economic Development Director on December 1, 2025.
What key industries does Phoenix aim to expand?
Phoenix aims to expand advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, bioscience, aerospace, defense, and technology fields, including autonomous vehicles and medical devices.
How is Phoenix improving its global connectivity?
Phoenix is leveraging Sky Harbor Airport’s reputation and adding new direct international flights, particularly to Asia, to boost global connectivity.
Phoenix’s new Community and Economic Development Director, Ryan Touhill, expressed optimism about the city’s economic future on February 17, 2026. He highlighted Phoenix AZ’s deliberate growth, downtown revitalization, and expanding educated workforce. Touhill emphasized diversifying industries to foster economic resiliency in Arizona.
Phoenix’s Economic Trajectory Bolstered by New Director’s Confidence
Phoenix’s economic outlook received a strong vote of confidence as Ryan Touhill, the city’s new Community and Economic Development Director, publicly articulated his optimistic vision for the city’s future on February 17, 2026. He emphasized Phoenix’s ongoing deliberate growth, revitalization efforts in its downtown core, and a continuously expanding workforce demonstrating higher educational attainment.
Fostering Economic Resiliency Through Diversified Industries
Touhill highlighted the critical importance of achieving economic resiliency through strategic diversification across various sectors. He specifically identified advanced manufacturing, the semiconductor industry, bioscience, aerospace and defense, and burgeoning technology fields as key areas for expansion. This technological emphasis includes autonomous vehicles, autonomous drones, aircraft, and medical devices.
The city’s approach to growth is characterized as deliberate and forward-looking, with a focus on smart expansion strategies. Phoenix actively employs various economic development tools, including collaborations with developers to enhance infrastructure and tax-related initiatives aimed at downtown revitalization.
Why Phoenix is Positioned for Continued Growth
Phoenix’s increasing global connectivity, exemplified by Sky Harbor Airport’s recognition as one of the nation’s premier airports and recent direct flight additions to Asia, further strengthens its economic foundation. This connectivity supports the city’s appeal as a hub for diverse industries and a desirable location for a growing workforce.
Broader economic forecasts for Arizona predict a rebound in growth for 2026, with particular tailwinds from the artificial intelligence sector and investments in data centers and power generation infrastructure. The city is also experiencing improving housing affordability and an increase in housing inventory.
Ryan Touhill’s Extensive Background in Economic Development Leadership
Ryan Touhill officially commenced his role as Phoenix’s Community and Economic Development Director on December 1, 2025, succeeding Christine Mackay, who transitioned to lead the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. Touhill brings nearly two decades of experience in local government and economic development to his new position.
Prior to joining Phoenix, he served as the Director of Arlington Economic Development in Virginia. During his tenure there, he was instrumental in developing and implementing a strategic plan for economic growth, which attracted millions in new investment and supported the creation of thousands of jobs. His past achievements also include significant contributions to securing Amazon’s second headquarters and Virginia Tech’s Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia.
Key Focus Areas for Phoenix’s Economic Growth
| Area of Focus | Details |
|---|---|
| Economic Diversification | Expanding beyond traditional sectors into advanced manufacturing, bioscience, aerospace, defense, and technology. |
| Technological Advancement | Emphasis on industries such as autonomous vehicles, drones, and medical devices. |
| Downtown Redevelopment | Continued efforts to revitalize and foster growth in the central urban area. |
| Workforce Development | Cultivating an increasing workforce with higher educational attainment. |
| Global Connectivity | Leveraging top-rated airport infrastructure and expanding international flight routes. |
| Strategic Growth | Implementing deliberate and smart growth strategies across the city. |
| Economic Resiliency | Building a strong and adaptable economy capable of withstanding various challenges. |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
