Economic Development and Workforce Excellence

The Aerospace and Defense Innovation Network for Manufacturers provides services and resources to help El Paso manufacturers grow and meet new customers in aerospace and defense markets. The Aerospace and Defense Innovation Network for Manufacturers is powered by the UTEP-Aerospace Center, UTEP-W.M. Keck Center for 3D Innovation, the City of El Paso, the El Paso Chamber and the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining.

Joining the Innovation Network is free to all El Paso manufacturers. Join NOW. Manufacturers who join the Innovation Network have access to the following resources and support.

Business Growth

The Innovation Network promotes El Paso's research and manufacturing capabilities to aerospace and defense markets. The following resources are available to support El Paso manufacturers' growth.

• Access to CONNEX El Paso, a supply chain database tool to promote the capabilities of El Paso's manufacturing industry and to source new suppliers,
• Annual Aerospace and Defense Supplier Summit
• Annual Technology Forum
• Monthly networking meetings
• Promotion at aerospace and defense trade shows

Technology Innovation
The Innovation Network provides Technology Innovation support to improve the competitiveness of El Paso manufacturers. Services include: 

• Technology and digital infrastructure assessment,
• Product and process development and improvement,
• Technical consultation about the adoption of digital integration strategies, and
• Technical consultation about advanced manufacturing techniques.

Infrastructure and Facilities
The Innovation Network has developed infrastructure and technical support for research and development firms and manufacturers who want to grow into aerospace and defense markets. Infrastructure and services include:

• The Advanced Manufacturing District {under development) at the El Paso International Airport that will have common cybersecurity, physical security, and digital infrastructure that meets the requirements for aerospace and defense markets.
• The Innovation Factory {under development) at the Advanced Manufacturing District will be available to manufacturing startups.
• An Industry Commons {under development) at the Technology Research and Innovation Acceleration Park will be available for aerospace and defense startups who want to access the research capabilities of the Aerospace Center.
• Technical consulting on facility and process upgrades required for AS9100D quality certifications, and
• Technical consulting on facility and process upgrades for ITAR registration.

Talent Acquisition and Development
The Innovation Network works with El Paso aerospace and defense companies and manufacturers to develop a future-ready workforce fully capable in the technical skills and knowledge that industry needs to be successful. Services include:

• Assessment of workforce needs and connection with existing programs and training dollars to support training and workforce needs.
• Development of workforce training programs specific to aerospace, defense and advanced manufacturing.