This article is part of a year-long blog series, Partner Profiles: Bringing the AZ STEM Ecosystem to Life. We’ll be highlighting the organizations statewide that build bridges and create connections to unite a wide array of STEM-focused industries.
With more than 100 years of history in the tech industry, Avnet has evolved from a family run parts business on New York’s famed Radio Row into a global leader in electronics distribution and solutions. Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, Avnet is not only shaping the future of technology, but also working to ensure the next generation has the tools, access, and confidence to lead it.
As a proud partner in the Arizona STEM Ecosystem and longtime supporter of SciTech Institute, Avnet brings its commitment to community directly into classrooms, robotics labs, and local libraries. The company believes that equitable access to STEM education is essential for building a more innovative, diverse, and inclusive tech future.
At the heart of Avnet’s community engagement is their investment in youth-focused STEM programs. One of the company’s most impactful efforts is their involvement in the Chief Science Officers (CSO) program, a student-led leadership initiative managed by SciTech Institute. Over the past three years, Avnet has helped grow the program globally, including supporting a launch in Guadalajara, Mexico. Their employees have hosted CSOs at Avnet’s Chandler and Phoenix campuses, offering career tours, mentorship, and direct exposure to real-world STEM careers.
Avnet’s commitment to rural and under-resourced communities is more than just a pledge, it’s part of their operational DNA. Through the STEM Little Free Library Project, Avnet teams at 13 locations across the U.S. and Mexico assembled and distributed more than 4,000 STEM kits over the past year. These kits encourage curiosity and offer tangible resources to kids who might not otherwise have access to hands on learning.
Their philosophy is simple but powerful: youth will gain an interest in careers and curriculum when they can see it and experience it. Avnet works to ensure every student, regardless of geography or background, has a chance to be exposed to the exciting possibilities of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Looking ahead, Avnet continues to champion youth engagement through spring competitions and showcases, including Arizona FIRST Robotics, the Southern Arizona Science and Engineering Fair, Coolest Projects 2026, and the STEM Scholars program in partnership with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Avnet supports these initiatives for their ability to blend creativity, problem solving, and hands-on exploration. These events aren’t just competitions, they’re launching pads for ideas, innovation, and future STEM careers.
Whether distributing cutting-edge components to global clients or assembling STEM kits for rural classrooms, Avnet is always connecting ideas to execution, innovation to impact, and communities to opportunity. As a dedicated member of the SciTech network and the Arizona STEM Ecosystem, their work serves as a reminder that the future of technology starts with access, mentorship, and a shared commitment to building what’s next.
Avnet STEM Little Free Libraries Packing Party, Phoenix, AZ
