Champions of Innovation 2024
Four Arizona Legislators Recognized as Champions of Innovation by Partnership for Economic Innovation for leadership in growing Arizona’s innovation economy.
We are proud to announce the winners of our second annual Arizona Champions of Innovation Awards. Senator J.D. Mesnard, Senator Flavio Bravo, Representative Justin Wilmeth, and Representative Alma Hernandez were recognized for their outstanding leadership and contributions to promoting innovation and strategic economic growth in Arizona.
Meet the Awardees
Representative Justin Wilmeth: Wilmeth has served Legislative District 2 since 2021, focusing on economic development, international trade, and finding common-sense solutions to the problems facing Arizonans. As Commerce Chairman, he has worked to strengthen Arizona’s economic environment across the board and has directly established several key international trade offices.
Representative Alma Hernandez: Hernandez is Arizona’s youngest legislator and serves on the Health and Human Services and Federal Relations committees. A passionate advocate for healthcare and criminal justice reform, she has worked extensively to improve public health and access to care, including organizing efforts to protect the Affordable Care Act.
Representative J.D. Mesnard: Mesnard is currently serving his third term as a state senator for District 13, having previously served as Speaker of the House. An advocate for community involvement and education, he has contributed significantly through his roles in legislation, teaching, and working with various charities.
Senator Flavio Bravo, born and raised in the 26th district he now represents, serves on multiple community boards and focuses on enhancing the quality of life in his community. As a first-generation college graduate with degrees in Political Science, Philosophy, and Migration Studies, he is dedicated to advancing housing and economic policy.
“Each legislator we’ve honored this year has played a role in advancing Arizona’s innovation economy and bringing prosperity to our state,” said John Graham, Chairman and CEO of Sunbelt Holdings and President of the Board for the Partnership for Economic Innovation. “Their commitment nurtures emerging technologies while also strengthening our state’s existing industries and workforce. We hope their leadership serves as inspiration for others to join our mission to build a more resilient and inclusive economy that ensures opportunities for all Arizonans.”
Winners of the AZ Champions of Innovation Awards were selected by a committee of PEI board members based on the criteria that each awardee demonstrated an understanding of Arizona’s innovation economy; showcased their commitment to growing innovation in Arizona; championed support for building world-class education institutions in Arizona; and demonstrated leadership for driving industry-led solutions that address challenges faced by Arizona businesses.
“These legislators have been consistent proponents of Arizona’s innovation economy,” Graham said. “They have supported and encouraged the applied research funding the Arizona Legislature has provided to expand innovation in the state, strengthening the innovation ecosystem and bringing more opportunities to Arizona.”
“At the WearTech Applied Research Center, we’ve witnessed several of our project teams validate their devices and bring them into the market because we’re able to collaborate between businesses and universities,” said Kathleen Lee, Director of Applied Research Center for the Partnership for Economic Innovation. “We are grateful to the Arizona Legislature for setting aside these public funds for applied research to help us advance critical research projects.”
“These legislators’ are actively supporting innovation today while also laying the groundwork for Arizona’s future as a leading innovation economy,” said Chris Camacho, President and CEO of Greater Phoenix Economic Council and PEI Board Member. “By prioritizing policies that empower local businesses and foster cutting-edge research, they are helping create an ecosystem where groundbreaking ideas can thrive. As Arizona steps into a new era with its economy, we need to work together to build up a hub for innovation.”
