In this special episode of Arizona Through Their Eyes, we’re shaking things up! GPEC’s VP of Bioscience Business Development, Allie Bakovic, hands over the mic to her mentee and episode host, Kenzy Moustafa—a neuroscience undergraduate at ASU. Together, they explore Allie’s remarkable career journey, from conducting groundbreaking lab research to driving innovation in Greater Phoenix’s bioscience ecosystem.

Listen in as they discuss pivotal career transitions, the bridge between biosciences and economic development, and the exciting opportunities emerging within the sector across Greater Phoenix. Whether you're a student, researcher or simply curious about where science meets business, this episode offers valuable insights on career growth, mentorship and making an impact beyond the lab.

About Allison (Allie) Bakovic, Ph.D. — Allie has been with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council since December of 2023 and serves as the Vice President of Bioscience Business Development. Allie earned her Ph.D. from George Mason University, where she conducted mutagenesis studies in biosafety level-3 laboratories. She holds a BioMolecular Engineering degree from the Milwaukee School of Engineering and is passionate about translating complex scientific principles for broad audiences.

Connect with Allie Bakovic

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bakovica/

About Kenzy Moustafa — Kenzy is a Neuroscience student in her senior year at ASU. Kenzy has been interested in the study of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, and hopes to build her career to aid in the development of cures for these diseases. Kenzy is currently an undergraduate research assistant in a Visual Cognition Laboratory, assisting in data collection and analysis, and identifying relevant research literature to contextualize findings.

Connect with Kenzy Moustafa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenzy-moustafa-224029318/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Learn how to experience Greater Phoenix like never before in this episode of Arizona Through Their Eyes. GPEC’s Senior Director of Business Development, Zach Venvertloh, sits down with outdoor enthusiast and longtime friend, Ari Harris, for a conversation about Arizona’s unmatched outdoor lifestyle and the diverse outdoor opportunities available both within the city and throughout the state.

Listen in as Zach and Ari discuss Ari’s adventures, his passion for fishing and hiking and what makes Arizona’s landscapes so unique. From hidden hiking gems to the best fishing spots in the state, Ari shares his firsthand experiences and expert tips for making the most of Greater Phoenix great outdoors.

Whether you’re an outdoor lover, a new resident or simply looking for inspiration to explore more of what Greater Phoenix has to offer, this episode is filled with insights, stories and recommendations to help you appreciate the state in a whole new way.

About Ari Harris – Ari holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and has conducted plant research in the Indiana Dunes as well as fisheries work in Yellowstone National Park. Currently, Ari is shooting videography for The Hook Up Tackle. An avid hiker and photographer, Ari is dedicated to capturing the beauty of the natural world through a scientific and artistic lens

Connect with Ari Harris

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ari-harris-907922177/

About Zach Venvertloh – Zach has been with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council since March of 2020 and serves as Business Development Senior Director. During his graduate studies he was awarded a Presidential Graduate Research Fellowship at the University of Iowa, where he researched innovative therapeutic options for the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease. Prior to joining GPEC, Zach spent three years living abroad and working in a variety of industries.

Connect with Zach Venvertloh

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-venvertloh/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Join GPEC’s Digital Marketing Intern, Tatum Baxter, in the first of our new minisode series, Arizona Through Their Eyes, where GPEC team members will take you behind the scenes with their stories about life and work in Arizona. In this episode, Tatum shares a conversation with Thomas Maynard, Senior Vice President of Business Development at GPEC, exploring his inspiring career journey, from starting as an intern to becoming a key leader within the organization.

Listen in as Tatum and Thomas dive into the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the skills that set him apart and practical insights for current interns eager to grow and succeed. Whether you're just beginning your professional journey or looking to make a lasting impact, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiration to help you chart your own path forward.

About Thomas Maynard — Thomas has been with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council since August 2013 and in the role of SVP of Business Development since 2019. He is an Arizona native and graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in journalism with a focus in public relations.

Connect with Thomas Maynard

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-maynard-b59b9747/

About our host Tatum Baxter — Tatum is a Digital Marketing Intern within GPEC's Marketing & Communications team, where she produces and promotes podcast episodes, optimizes SEO, builds website content and assists with paid advertising campaigns and analytics. An Arizona native and passionate singer and songwriter, Tatum founded Music is Therapy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides music therapy and instruments to underprivileged schools, hospitals and nonprofits, reached #31 on the Billboard Adult Top 40 Chart and is currently pursuing a degree in Business Marketing at Arizona State University.

Connect with Tatum Baxter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tatum-baxter-732591291/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2