October 2026 Member Spotlight
Fernando Garcia
Executive Vice President, International Trade & Investment, Arizona Commerce Authority
Where are you originally from?
I’m originally from San Luis, Arizona, a border community in southwestern Arizona. Growing up along the Arizona-Mexico border gave me an early appreciation for how closely communities, economies, and people are connected across borders. Arizona has always been home, and that background has shaped much of how I view international trade, economic development, and the importance of building strong relationships with our global partners.
How did you come to work in the economic development profession?
My introduction to economic development came while I was pursuing my Master of Public Administration. As part of the program, I had the opportunity to intern with the Town of Sahuarita and complete a capstone project focused on economic development. That experience introduced me to the profession and showed me how economic development brings together public service, business, community development, and relationship-building to create tangible opportunities for communities.
That experience ultimately led to my first job in economic development with the City of Casa Grande, where I spent two years working at the local level. From there, I joined the Arizona Commerce Authority and had the opportunity to expand my work to the statewide and eventually international level. It wasn’t necessarily the career path I envisioned when I began my MPA, but once I was introduced to economic development, I quickly realized how well it aligned with my interests and background.
What drew you to the opportunity at the Arizona Commerce Authority and how long have you been in your current role?
What drew me to the Arizona Commerce Authority was the opportunity to take what I had learned at the local level and contribute to economic development across the entire state. I have been with the ACA for five years and have served in my current role as Executive Vice President of International Trade & Investment for the past three years.
Today, I oversee Arizona’s international trade and investment strategy and a team focused on attracting foreign direct investment, expanding global partnerships, and helping Arizona companies access international markets. One of the most exciting parts of the role has been seeing Arizona’s position in the global economy continue to grow. We are increasingly engaging with international partners that already recognize Arizona as an important destination for investment, innovation, and advanced industries.
What are your thoughts and experiences with AAED?
AAED plays an important role in bringing Arizona’s economic development community together. One of the things I value most is the opportunity to build relationships with professionals working at the state, regional, local, and community levels. Economic development is ultimately a team effort, and AAED provides a forum to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and strengthen the partnerships that allow us to compete as one Arizona.
Having started my economic development career at the local level, I particularly appreciate the diversity of perspectives within AAED and the opportunity to stay connected with economic development professionals and communities throughout the state.
Are there any economic development projects that you’re particularly proud of?
I’m particularly proud of the work we have done to expand Arizona’s international presence and strengthen the state’s relationships with key global markets. Taiwan is a great example. Arizona has developed an increasingly significant economic relationship with Taiwan, particularly around semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, and our team has worked closely with companies, government partners, communities, and industry organizations to turn those relationships into tangible opportunities.
More broadly, I’m proud of helping build an international strategy that connects global engagement directly to Arizona’s economic priorities. Whether we are supporting a company considering an Arizona investment, helping an Arizona business enter a new market, or bringing together international and Arizona leaders, the most rewarding projects are the ones that create relationships and opportunities that continue well beyond a single meeting or mission.
What comes to mind when you think about Arizona?
Opportunity. Arizona has a willingness to think big and move quickly, but what really differentiates our state is collaboration. Cities, economic development organizations, universities, industry partners, and state leaders are willing to come together around an opportunity. That “Team Arizona” approach is something I see firsthand when we are competing internationally, and I believe it is one of our greatest strengths.
For me, Arizona is also personal. Having grown up in San Luis, started my economic development journey in Sahuarita, worked in Casa Grande, and now having the opportunity to represent our state internationally, I’ve been fortunate to see Arizona and its communities from a number of different perspectives.
What is it that you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active, particularly running and working out. I also enjoy traveling, cooking and grilling, playing the guitar, and spending time with family. I’m also a Formula 1 fan and enjoy getting to a race when I can.
I also serve as a Major in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. My military service has been an important part of my life and has shaped how I approach leadership, teamwork, and service both personally and professionally.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
One of the things I appreciate most about economic development is that the work is fundamentally about people. Projects and investments matter, but they happen because of relationships, trust, and people who are willing to work together toward something bigger.
I’ve been fortunate to experience economic development from the local, statewide, and international levels, and I never take for granted the opportunity to represent the state I grew up in. Being able to tell Arizona’s story around the world and help create opportunities for communities across the state makes the work incredibly meaningful.
