As Arizona moves into 2026, a handful of individuals across key sectors have distinguished themselves through leadership, impact, and influence. Their recent work has not only shaped their respective fields, but has also positioned them as figures worth watching in the year ahead. With that in mind, the ADI has compiled five of the most intriguing Arizonans, each representing a distinct category, whose next moves could help define Arizona’s trajectory in 2026.
Academia: Brian Mueller – President, Grand Canyon University
Brian Mueller’s influence on Arizona’s academic landscape stems from his transformative leadership of Grand Canyon University (GCU), where he has served as president since 2008. Under his direction, GCU has grown from roughly 8,000 students into one of the nation’s largest universities, with more than 100,000 learners enrolled nationwide and over 25,000 students attending on campus in Phoenix. His strategic decisions have reshaped the institution’s trajectory, expanded educational opportunities for thousands of students across Arizona and beyond, and positioned GCU as a major academic and economic force in the state, making him one of the most influential figures in Arizona academia.
Business: Michael Ebert – Managing Partner, RED Development
Few individuals have shaped Arizona’s commercial real estate landscape as decisively as Michael Ebert. His influence is setting the direction of the industry as a managing partner of RED Development. Through his leadership, Ebert has driven some of the state’s most consequential mixed-use and commercial projects, including anchoring urban revitalization efforts like CityScape Phoenix in downtown Phoenix, shaping how major developments are planned, financed, and integrated into their communities. His work has not only benefited key communities across Arizona, but has also established a benchmark for large-scale, high-impact real estate development statewide.
Industry: Jason Beck — Founder & CEO, TYR Tactical
As founder and CEO of TYR Tactical, Beck built one of Arizona’s most respected tactical equipment manufacturers, supplying advanced protective gear to U.S. military units, federal agencies, and allied forces worldwide. Under his leadership, TYR Tactical became known for innovation in materials, design, and rapid-response manufacturing, helping shape modern standards for body armor and tactical load-bearing systems. Beck has sold the company for approximately $175 million, a milestone that underscored both the scale of TYR Tactical’s success and its strategic importance within the defense manufacturing sector. His work has not only positioned Arizona as a hub for high-end defense manufacturing, but has also set a benchmark for mission-driven, performance-focused businesses operating at a national and global level.
Politics: Abraham J. Hamadeh, U.S. Representative AZ-08
With just one year in Congress under his belt, Representative Abe Hamadeh has shifted the Overton Window and reached across the aisle to the benefit of Arizona residents. His fearlessness when it comes to discussing controversial issues – including election processes – has made it possible for formerly forbidden conversations to occur. At the same time, he has refused to engage in political stunts and the petty and poisonous name calling employed by his colleagues. Because he has reached across the aisle, his legislation for veterans has passed in the House on bipartisan votes. He has also helped secure defense priorities for Arizona through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), supporting local military installations and industry, suicide prevention oversight, next-generation research, and airspace cooperation initiatives. Representing one of Arizona’s most strategically significant districts, home to major defense, aerospace, and veterans communities, Hamadeh’s committee assignments and legislative focus place him at the intersection of national security policy and Arizona’s economic and military footprint, making him one of the most influential emerging figures in federal politics.
Sports: Cameron Skattebo — Student-Athlete, Arizona State University (Football)
Few athletes have shaped Arizona State football as tangibly as Cameron Skattebo. In the 2023 season, Skattebo emerged as one of the most productive all-purpose backs in the Pac-12, finishing among the conference leaders in rushing yards, total touchdowns, and yards from scrimmage. His durability and workload consistency made him one of the most heavily utilized offensive players in the league, while his effectiveness in short-yardage and red-zone situations directly translated into scoring efficiency. Beyond raw production, Skattebo ranked near the top of the conference in broken tackles and yards after contact, underscoring his physical impact and influence on defensive game planning. His performance metrics, usage rate, and situational reliability collectively establish him as one of the most influential athletes in Arizona collegiate athletics.
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