Trout stated, “We looked at 60 locations. As far as Tempe, we knew the town. There was the weather and the reliability of the infrastructure was unparalleled. Being close to ASU was important to get that great labor pool.”

“The primary driver was the labor force, and the specific type of labor,” said Gerber.

The conversation quickly turned to some of Arizona's lacks.

Mehren, who works in the biotech industry, said the state has a negative brand when it comes to attracting top level scientists. “When we pass certain laws, it confuses people. They see us as bigots and we need to rebrand.” This comment was met with resounding agreement from the audience.

“There is a war for talent,” said Gerber. “What should the state be concerned about for people they want to hire? There are third party drivers and one of them is education. Arizona communities are challenged with low high school and community college test scores. Education needs to be addressed, but this is not just Arizona by any means.”

Mehren added, “We need to start with having an infrastructure that values education like we haven't seen in the past. We have to prime the pump somewhere.”

“Let's not forget the middle income jobs,” said Trout, “or you'll have a gap. Those jobs help bring people and families up. We need systems to educate everyone across the spectrum.”

“One benefit of Arizona is that it is still a place where communities interact. Here we have a melting pot and we should build on that strength,” said Mehren. “We should have the attitude, 'come to us and make your fortune, regardless of your race or your socio-economic status.'”

“We have to stay on top of our game now and in the future and find out what businesses need,” said Gerber.

Mehren added, “We should define why we are better and make that clear.”

Gerber stated, “You can't be everything to everybody. What are your strengths? Know them and go after them.”

“This state has been fantastic,” said Mehren. “My experience was great. This state executed really well. Going forward, the challenge is hiring and keeping talent in the state.”

“We form long-term relationships at State Farm,” said Trout. “We're excited about Tempe. It has that live, work, play vibe that people in IT and high tech want. And we want people to choose to use public transportation. Can Tempe live up to a Dallas in terms of public transportation? I don't know. But we believe the millennials will use the public transportation. We are working closely with ASU and Maricopa Community College to develop those 20 to 30-year employees that we're known for.”

Morfessis asked what advice panelists would give recruiting municipalities.

“Be proactive about infrastructure,” said Gerber. “Don't tell us what you plan on doing. And get your big companies into your schools to improve education.”

Mehren stated, “Choose growth. Southern Arizona has chosen anti-growth in many respects. Thirty years ago, Phoenix and Tucson looked much the same. Look at them now. Without growth you have no tax base. You've got to invest in growth.”

“Stay modern and attractive,” said Trout. “The workforce drives what you do. Update your infrastructure.”