MinerAlert
MinerAlert
Welcome to the Aerospace Center at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)—a place where bold ideas take flight, and the next generation of aerospace pioneers is forged.
Aerospace has been the driving force of my life. After 37 years in the Department of Defense, working across multiple agencies and partnering with industry, universities, Federally-Funded Research Development Centers, University-Affiliated Research Centers, and national laboratories, I have seen firsthand how innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence can shape the future of national security, space exploration, and technological advancement.
Now, as the Executive Director of the UTEP Aerospace Center, I have the privilege of leading a team that embodies that same passion and determination. Our mission is clear and ambitious—to push the frontiers of aerospace through pioneering research, hands-on education, and strategic partnerships. Whether we are advancing hypersonics, space systems, AI-driven materials science, advanced/smart manufacturing, or energy sustainability, our work is about solving real-world challenges that have far-reaching impact—to accelerate innovation and scientific breakthroughs at warp speed.
What makes the UTEP Aerospace Center special is its ability to connect worlds—bridging academia, industry, and government to drive meaningful change.
Aerospace is more than just my career—it’s my passion, and I am honored to be part of this journey with all of you. I invite you to explore our work, connect with our team, and be part of this extraordinary mission. The future of aerospace is being built right here at UTEP— let’s launch it together!
Dr. Shery L. Welsh
Executive Director
UTEP Aerospace Center
The Aerospace Center at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) aspires to be a global leader and partner in the New Frontier Ecosystem.
At the Aerospace Center, we are launching the future of aerospace innovation. Our mission is to drive pioneering discoveries that push the boundaries of research, technology, and exploration. Through immersive, hands-on education in state-of-the-art laboratories, we empower students to become pioneers of the next frontier. By fostering economic mobility and workforce readiness, we equip a new generation of visionaries to shape the cosmos of aerospace for our region, strengthen national security, and drive humanity’s journey beyond the horizon.
Goal 1: Cultivate a World-Class STEM Workforce
Lead the nation in preparing an inclusive and highly skilled workforce of engineers, scientists, and technicians to drive bold solutions to aerospace challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Goal 2: Foster Industry Leaders in Aerospace Innovation with Global Perspectives
Cultivate visionary leaders with the strategic mindset, global awareness, and bold problem-solving skills needed to drive transformative solutions and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the aerospace industry.
Goal 3: Collaborate for Innovation and Boost Competitiveness: Build multidisciplinary teams and partner with the New Frontier Ecosystem to unleash pioneering research, conquer complex design challenges and amplify U.S. aerospace leadership.
