NSF Engine Spotlight: Southwest Futures Engine

Addressing climate change challenges such as extreme aridity, heat, and rapid population growth, SWSIE harnesses STEM discovery and innovation to drive a transition to a sustainable, net-zero economy with minimal water usage.

The SWSIE coalition, including universities, industry leaders, community organizations, investors, and decision-makers, is united by a vision for a thriving Southwest. The NSF Engine focuses on:

• Catalyzing co-innovation in technology and governance to overcome barriers to community and economic development, fostering equitable water and energy futures.
• Expanding infrastructure and capacity for knowledge translation through startups and IP licensing, supporting sustainable economic and population growth.
• Preparing a diverse STEM-enabled workforce to meet the needs of new and existing employers, providing inclusive access to high-wage STEM jobs through innovative education and training programs.

SWSIE addresses critical challenges like carbon capture, water recycling, and renewable energy deployment, emphasizing governance as key to effective implementation. Its goal is to transform water supply, energy security, and net carbon emissions in a region rich in solar and renewable energy potential.

Under the leadership of CEO Brian Sherman, COO Scott Barclay, and PI Peter Schlosser, SWSIE’s vision includes:

• Institutionalizing a regional sustainability innovation ecosystem that accelerates R&D applications and brings technology and governance innovations to market.
• Engaging economic and workforce development organizations, industry, universities, and technical colleges to address workforce gaps through inclusive entrepreneurship, technical careers, and upskilling programs.

Over the next decade, SWSIE envisions the Southwest as a global leader in green innovation, driven by renewable energy, sustainable water management, and a robust, inclusive economy. For more details, visit swsie.asu.edu, and follow on Linkedin.