SE Valley Times

Four leaders from prominent educational institutions and the mayor of Phoenix recently gathered for the National Science Foundation’s Southwest Sustainability Innovation Engine (SWSIE) event. This initiative is a regional hub focused on innovation and workforce development in clean energy, water security, and carbon capture sectors.

Brian Sherman, CEO of SWSIE, addressed the audience at Arizona State University’s Tempe campus. “We live in volatile times. Signs of climate change are all around us,” he said. “Our mission is not only to prepare the Southwest and its citizens to survive but to thrive.”

Formed in January, SWSIE is led by ASU and involves over 115 partners across Utah, Nevada, and Arizona. The event aimed to bring these partners together to discuss regional challenges and highlight progress through panel discussions on energy and entrepreneurship.

ASU President Michael M. Crow emphasized the role of the NSF since its inception in 1950. “Now the NSF has introduced the notion of a national competition,” Crow stated. “Let’s have universities come together with companies and other groups in certain regions.”

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego highlighted the importance of SWSIE's work given local sustainability challenges. “So many of the top innovations in solar and water management have come right out of this region,” she noted.

Peter Schlosser from ASU remarked on empowering future generations: “It's crucial that we not only prepare young people in new and innovative ways but also empower them with agency.”

The NSF Engines program supports ten regional engines to develop solutions-inspired research, promoting U.S. competitiveness. The collaboration could receive up to $160 million over ten years.

University leaders like Taylor Randall from Utah emphasized societal impact through economic development while UNLV President Keith Whitfield stressed collaborative efforts for regional sustainability needs.

Kumud Acharya from Desert Research Institute sees this collaboration enhancing existing projects related to water security among others.

SWSIE anticipates significant economic benefits over the next decade including $2.7 billion in output, $858 million in tax revenue, 16,000 new jobs, and 33,000 upskilled employees.

Sherman concluded by announcing upcoming funding opportunities for startups in sustainability sectors: “With this engine, we're going to create hope and prosperity for the future.”