Tune in for a conversation with Don Fotsch, Cofounder of BDS AI (Battery Detection Systems), on how Arizona’s tech ecosystem is growing into a hub of innovation and opportunity.
From bridging the gap between talent and funding to redefining how values shape hiring and community building, Don explains what it takes to grow a thriving startup culture outside of Silicon Valley. They dig into the challenges of post-pandemic workforce development, why real-world experience is often more valuable than traditional education, and how mentorship and collaboration can fuel the next generation of entrepreneurs. If you’re ready to discover what makes Arizona’s startup scene one to watch, this episode is for you.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
02:55 Don's Background and Career Journey
05:57 Transition to Arizona and Observations
08:52 The Arizona Nerd Network and Its Purpose
11:58 Building a Tech Community in Arizona
14:57 Future of Tech in Arizona and Closing Thoughts
17:27 Embracing Growth Opportunities
19:57 The Value of Community and Talent
21:57 Building Connections in Tech
24:49 The Importance of Education and Context
28:05 Understanding Arizona's Unique Position
29:59 The Role of Values in Technology
31:51 Shifting Perspectives on Industry and Innovation
33:59 Learning from Successful Founders
36:11 Recruiting Talent with a Personal Touch
39:23 Building Connections in Arizona's Startup Ecosystem
40:01 Scaling Arizona's Manufacturing and Engineering Potential
42:17 Navigating the Challenges of Hiring New Graduates
46:51 The Future of Education and Job Readiness
50:04 Mastery Learning and Education Productivity
51:55 Real-World Experience and Job Readiness
52:25 The Importance of Context in Education
53:52 Relevance in Education and Skills for the Future
54:59 The Role of Universities in Modern Education
56:08 Community Involvement and Parental Guidance
57:07 Building a Supportive Ecosystem for Founders
58:34 The Power of Conversation and Networking
59:54 Funding Challenges and Opportunities in Arizona
01:01:11 Augmenting the Ecosystem for Success
References in the Show:
https://www.fastcompany.com/91290430/zero-to-one-the-fundamentals-of-building-and-growing-a-startup
https://siteselection.com/arizona-the-region-redefining-the-future-of-tech/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Quote of the Show:
“The only thing better than hiring the people who have the talent that you need, is hiring people who have the talent that you need, who you already know and are values aligned to. Which is why, like in Silicon Valley, you bump it into people, or Austin, Boston, pick your favorite ones. And a lot of people are hiring people they know.” - Don Fotsch
Ways to Tune In:
