Leadership in Action: Recent Visits

NewSpace Nexus and COSMIAC

Exploring the New Frontier: Advancing Space Innovation Through Collaboration

The recent visit to NewSpace Nexus and COSMIAC was an out-of-this-world experience, filled with energy, innovation, and a shared passion for advancing space technologies. A special thanks goes to Casey Anglada DeRaad, Arial DeHerrera (NewSpace Nexus), and Craig Kief (COSMIAC) for their collaboration and commitment to shaping the future. At UTEP, the College of Engineering, College of Science, and Aerospace Center continue to lead groundbreaking research, fostering economic growth in Paso del Norte and supporting national defense. By uniting science, technology, and collaboration, The New Frontier Ecosystem is pushing the boundaries of space innovation.

NewSpace Nexus Visit

Oakridge National Lab

Collaborating for a Greater Tomorrow

A recent visit to Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), hosted by Dr. "Suresh" Sudarsanam Babu, provided an incredible opportunity to explore world-class research facilities. Stops included the Manufacturing Science Division, TNMade, and UT’s Advanced Materials & Manufacturing HQs, where strategic discussions focused on accelerating innovation. Collaboration is key in aerospace research, unlocking greater potential in R&D. Special thanks to the teams at ORNL, UTK, and TNMade for their hospitality, and to Tony Schmitz, Jonathan Phipps, Ph.D., and Suresh for an inspiring dinner that sparked new project collaborations.

Oakridge National Lab Visit

Spaceport America

Reaching for the Stars with Spaceport America

A cosmic shout-out to Spaceport America in New Mexico, especially Director Scott McLaughlin, for an unforgettable visit! Scott and his team rolled out the interstellar red carpet, leading mission-critical discussions on attracting more space-faring energy to the NM/TX region. A special highlight was the Virgin Galactic tour, led by the legendary Michael Moses.

UTEP Aerospace Center, UTEP College of Engineering, and Ken Meissner joined fellow explorers from NMSU, NM Tech, City of Las Cruces, and Commissioner Iliana Holguin, including NMSU President Dr. Valerio Ferme. Together, they continue pushing boundaries and reaching for the stars!

Spaceport America Visit

American Astronomical Society

Dr. Shery Welsh Joins Prestigious von Braun Space Exploration Symposium

The American Astronautical Society invited Dr. Shery Welsh, Ph.D., SES (ret) to serve as a panelist at the 2024 von Braun Space Exploration Symposium. Dr. Welsh joined NASA Chief Technologist Dr. A.C. Charania and U.S. Space Force Chief Science Officer Dr. Stacie Williams in a roundtable discussion led by Dr. Andy Kwas (UNM/Northrop Grumman). The panel explored advancements in space technology, DoD-academic partnerships, and future challenges. Events like these strengthen Dr. Welsh’s role in the space ecosystem, fostering collaborations that drive innovation and national impact.

American Astronomical Society Visit