Posted by Nancy Gungor on Jul 30, 2026
Arizona's Copper Future: An Update from Hudbay Minerals
 
Copper is essential to America's energy future, infrastructure, manufacturing, and national security. During this presentation, Jerry Bustamante will provide an update on Hudbay Minerals' Copper World project in Southern Arizona, along with the company's recent acquisition of the Cactus Mine near Casa Grande.Attendees will gain insight into Hudbay's vision for responsibly developing these projects, current milestones, community engagement efforts, and the role these investments play in strengthening Arizona's position as one of the nation's leading copper-producing states. The presentation will also highlight the economic opportunities these projects create through investment, job creation, and supporting the domestic supply of a critical mineral essential to the nation's future.
 
Biography:
 
Jerry Bustamante serves as Senior Manager of Public Affairs for Hudbay Minerals' U.S. Business Unit, where he leads the company's external engagement efforts, including community relations, government affairs, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communications for Hudbay's Arizona operations. Since joining Hudbay in 2015, Jerry has played a key role in advancing the company's major development projects while fostering collaborative relationships with local communities, business organizations, elected officials, and industry stakeholders. His work focuses on building partnerships that support responsible resource development and long-term economic growth throughout Arizona.
 
With more than 25 years of experience in business leadership, public affairs, and association management, Jerry has spent much of his career strengthening Arizona's business community. Prior to joining Hudbay, he served as President and CEO of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, the Northern Pima County Chamber of Commerce, and the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. He also led Southern Arizona operations for the Arizona Small Business Association, advocating for small businesses and economic development across the region.Beyond his professional responsibilities, Jerry remains actively engaged in civic and industry leadership. He currently serves on the Boards of Directors of the Arizona Mining Association, the Arizona Small Business Association, and the Greater Vail Area Chamber of Commerce, where he continues to support responsible mining, business advocacy, and regional economic development.
 
Originally from Sonora, Mexico, Jerry was raised in Tucson and is a proud graduate of the University of Arizona. He is widely recognized throughout Arizona as a respected advocate for the mining industry, business development, and meaningful community engagement.
 
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