MinerAlert
MinerAlert
Click above to read the El Paso Inc. feature on the honorees of the inaugural Miner Business Impact Awards.
Please share a few key highlights about what it means to the company to partner with and support UTEP.
UTEP and Microsoft share a visionary goal of fostering greater economic opportunity in the Borderplex region. The innovative ideas stemming from UTEP's research, the impactful work of its faculty, and the exceptional talent cultivated by UTEP are all essential components for a thriving community. Most importantly, UTEP's values grounded in collaboration and in driving both access and excellence in education are exemplary. We deeply value UTEP's leadership and partnership in advancing our joint mission. Microsoft, our community, and the world have greatly benefited from the innovative ideas, dedicated faculty, and talented students of UTEP.
How has Microsoft's partnership with UTEP evolved over time?
Microsoft and UTEP have developed a strong partnership over the years, through several corporate teams at Microsoft: TechSpark, Tech for Fundamental Rights, Microsoft Research, and Global Talent Acquisition to name a few. Some of these initiatives include partnership to expand access to regional computer science education through the Microsoft Academy for Computer Science Education and collaboration on El Paso Computes, generating new models for interagency climate data through our AI for Earth portfolio, expanding research capabilities through faculty externships and faculty projects through Microsoft University Relations, and fostering a robust innovation ecosystem through event driven collaborations like hackathons and skilling series.
Any additional thoughts to share on partnership highlights and/or receiving the Partner in Prosperity Award.
We are honored by UTEP's recognition as a Partner in Prosperity. We look forward to working together to keep our region as a global thought leader and meet the demands of the 21st-century economy and evolving technology landscape.
Please share a few key highlights about what it means to the Foundations to partner with and support UTEP.
UTEP plays a critical role in the growth and development of our region. The Paso del Norte Health Foundation is proud to have partnered with UTEP over the last 30 years to promote health and prevent disease—from grants to increase the number and quality of graduates in nursing, pharmacy and occupational and physical therapy, to support for public health initiatives like diabetes, smoking, and obesity. The Paso del Norte Community Foundation is further honored to support scholarships for hundreds of undergraduate students in partnership with our fundholders.
How does the partnership between Paso del Norte Community Foundation, Paso del Norte Health Foundation, and UTEP benefit the greater El Paso community?
Our community is stronger when we work together. The Paso del Norte Health Foundation and Paso del Norte Community Foundation are grateful for the leadership and collaboration from UTEP’s students, faculty and staff to address our region’s most pressing challenges. Together, we have worked to develop and implement educational programs and health initiatives designed to increase the resources available to improve health and quality of life for the residents of our region.
Any additional thoughts to share on partnership highlights and/or receiving the Presidential Gold Bar Award.
The boards and staff of the Paso del Norte Health Foundation and Paso del Norte Community Foundation are honored to receive UTEP’s Presidential Gold Bar Award in recognition of our 30-year partnership working to advance health, education, social services, economic development and quality of life in our region.
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: James Bramble
Job Title: Co-Founder/Managing Partner
UTEP Degree: B.A. Organizational and Corporate Communication, 2011
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.amass-solutions.com
Number of Employees: 350
Year Established: 2019
Industry: Staffing, Recruitment and HR Business Process Outsourcing
Top Clients or Service Focus: Waste Connections, Republic Services, Meta, and Tesla with a Focus on Recruitment Process Outsourcing
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Amass is the parent company of Augment Human Resource Services and APS. Augment Human Resource Services is a premier staffing and recruitment firm specializing in general labor. It partners with leading companies in the environmental services, offering recruitment process outsourcing (RPO) and temporary employment solutions. APS focuses on technical project management recruitment within the tech sector. It provides specialized project managers in areas such as data center construction, tech manufacturing, security, and software development.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“The key driver of success for our organization has been our employees and the culture of excellence and customer service they have cultivated and consistently uphold. Thanks to their dedication, Amass has grown from managing a single account in Houston, Texas, in 2019 to operating sites in over 20 states across the United States.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Ekhi Muniategui
Job Title: CEO
UTEP Degree: B.S. in Industrial Engineering, 2004
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.directkinetics.com
Number of Employees: 12
Year Established: 2019
Industry: Deep Tech
Top Clients or Service Focus: Digital marketing, brand strategy, and multimedia content creation for regional businesses and national brands
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Direct Kinetic Solutions is transforming compact power with its groundbreaking technology. By integrating a small, reliable, and long-lasting power source directly alongside a device’s battery, DKS enables maintenance-free operation for decades.
This innovation is set to redefine energy solutions for defense, aerospace, industrial sensors, and beyond.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“Customer interactions and understanding. Science and continually meeting and exceeding our goals.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Paul Dipp
Job Title: President
UTEP Degree: BBA in Management, 1977
BUSINESS DETAILS
https://economywholesalegrocers.com/
Year Established: 1958
Industry: Wholesale Grocer
Top Clients or Service Focus: Wholesale Grocer
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Economy Wholesale Grocers distributes quality grocery-related products with exceptional customer, supplier, and employee relationships. They excel at market knowledge, cross-border partnerships, and export services through their professional bilingual team. Economy Wholesale Grocers is recognized as a regional leader in wholesale commerce, serving the U.S. and Mexico. Customers benefit from their ability to provide products by package, case, pallet, or truckload through their distribution center or two Cash and Carry locations with no membership fees.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“The foundation of our business lies in our core values: ethical based service, product quality, and exceptional value. From the beginning, our founders built strong relationships with our diverse bi-national customers, grounded in these principles. These values have been consistently upheld and respected throughout our company’s history.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: William M. Sheriff
Job Title: Executive Chair/Founder
UTEP Degree: M.S. in Geological Sciences, 2010
BUSINESS DETAILS
https://encoreuranium.com/
Number of Employees: 125+
Year Established: 2014
Industry: Uranian Production
Top Clients or Service Focus: U.S. nuclear electric utilities, including both plants in Texas
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
enCore Energy Corp., America’s Clean Energy Company™, provides clean, reliable, and affordable fuel for nuclear energy as the only United States uranium company with multiple Central Processing Plants in operation. The enCore team is led by industry experts with extensive knowledge in all aspects of In-Situ Recovery (“ISR”) uranium operations and the nuclear fuel cycle. enCore solely utilizes ISR for uranium extraction, a well-known and proven technology co-developed by the leaders at enCore Energy.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“The revival of nuclear power as an environmentally friendly energy source has been amplified by AI’s vast electricity consumption. Building a reliable domestic uranium supply for our nuclear utilities is vital for national security interests. UTEP has a long history of successful geologists in the uranium industry, including Charles Steen ’43. enCore is building on this legacy with the founder of the company, William Sheriff ’10 and John Seeley ’99, Ph.D.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Esau Hermosillo
Job Title: Founder/President
UTEP Degree: BBA in Marketing, 2007 and MBA in Finance, 2010
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.platinumwestcatalyst.com
Number of Employees: 7
Year Established: 2006
Industry: Recycling
Top Clients or Service Focus: Metal Recycling
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Platinum West Catalyst (PWC) recycles and processes used automobile parts including alternators, starters, lead-acid batteries, aluminum wheels, and spent automobile catalysts. PWC's roots date back to the late 1990's, when Ramon Hermosillo began collecting scrap metal. In 2006, PWC opened their doors as Hermos Enterprises Inc., servicing a then underserved local market. Today, PWC is a leading international processor of automotive catalysts, servicing the U.S. and Mexico, mining used auto parts for precious metals.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“There is not one single thing or action which we can attribute as our key driver to success. As boring as it sounds, it's all about the basics. It's about discipline, patience, and striving for continuous improvement on a daily basis. That's it. No magic formula. Be boring.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Paul Diaz
Job Title: President
UTEP Degree: B.S. in Electrical Engineering, 2009
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.iwsep.com
Number of Employees: 61
Year Established: 1997
Industry: Water Treatment
Top Clients or Service Focus: Manufacturing
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Industrial Water Services (IWS) manufactures and provides water treatment equipment and services to an array of municipal, industrial, commercial and residential customers. Water treatment projects include all fields of water treatment from high purity water to industrial waste reuse in the Southwest USA and Northern Mexico regions. IWS utilizes advanced water treatment methods such as filtration, reverse osmosis, disinfection, softening and specialized chemicals to custom engineer solutions for our customers.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“At IWS we strive to make sure the customer is always extremely satisfied with the end product/service. By providing the best service, customers will always return and are very likely to provide referrals for new business. IWS prides itself on customer satisfaction at all costs. This is a key component that is embedded in every IWS employee from the top down.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Karen Aguilar
Job Title: Co-Owner and Employer Branding Manager
UTEP Degree: BBA in Management, 2017
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.keflauta.com Number of Employees: 13
Year Established: 2009
Industry: Restaurant
Top Clients or Service Focus: Mexican High-Quality Fast-Food Restaurant
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Ke Flauta, founded in February 2009, has become a beloved part of the El Paso community, blending traditional Mexican cuisine with customer preferences. The
restaurant's success is built on the dedication of its employees and the support of loyal customers. Over its first decade, Ke Flauta has learned and grown and has opened doors to the UTEP community. With this new addition, it remains committed to offering the best experience possible. The future is bright.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“A key driver of Ke Flauta's success has been our commitment to both employees and customers. With a women-led and student-led leadership team, we bring fresh perspectives and a strong dedication to excellence. By fostering a positive, supportive work environment, we ensure exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere for our customers. Our inclusive approach, combined with a focus on traditional Mexican flavors, has been crucial to our growth and deep connection with the community.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Chirag Modi
Job Title: President
UTEP Degree: M.S. in Industrial Engineering,
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.greatclips.com
Number of Employees: 80
Year Established: 2014
Industry: Hair Salons
Top Clients or Service Focus: Hair Salons
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Franchise locations of Great Clips branded hair salons
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“Human resource management in a retail service industry is extremely critical. Our success has been driven by mergers and acquisitions strategy, integration discipline, marketing innovations, and continually tweaking and improving human resource management rigor.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Monica Contreras-Tullius, MS, CCC-SLP
Job Title: Owner / Clinical Administrator
UTEP Degree: B.S. in Speech Language Pathology, 1992 and M.S. in Speech Language Pathology, 1994
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.newbeginnings-elp.com/ Number of Employees: 45
Year Established: 2008
Industry: Medical
Top Clients or Service Focus: Speech, Feeding, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
New Beginnings is dedicated to changing the lives of El Paso’s children through speech, occupational, physical, and feeding therapies. Their mission is to offer individualized care that builds a strong foundation for lifelong development. They work with local pediatricians and military families, providing bilingual and family-centered therapy to meet various developmental needs.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“Our success is deeply rooted in our unwavering commitment to our patients and their families. We prioritize their well-being and work tirelessly to provide top-notch care. Our dedication to continuous improvement and excellence drives us to deliver the highest quality of service every day.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Jose Alejandro Morales
Job Title: Principal/Co-Founder
UTEP Degree: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, 2005
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.raxisengineering.com
Number of Employees: 13
Year Established: 2014
Industry: Engineering Consulting
Top Clients or Service Focus: Architects
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Raxis Engineering is a trusted MEP consulting firm serving El Paso, Las Cruces, and Albuquerque. They specialize in designing educational, commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings, with a focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. From new construction to renovations, they provide construction plans, equipment specifications, and performance-based designs tailored to client needs. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, Raxis Engineering delivers high-quality, reliable solutions that enhance productivity and exceed expectations.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“Success is driven by high-quality service, exceptional customer support, and adaptability to evolving technologies and market trends. Innovation sets a company apart, while clear vision and strong leadership guide strategic growth and inspire teams. Efficient resource management and cost-effectiveness boost profitability, enabling reinvestment in future growth. Building strong partnerships, fostering positive client and supplier relationships, and maintaining a trusted brand are essential for long-term success.”
|
BUSINESS LEADER |
BUSINESS LEADER
|
|
BUSINESS LEADER |
BUSINESS LEADER
|
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.sbngcpa.com/
Number of Employees: 46
Year Established: 1973
Industry: Accounting
Top Clients or Service Focus: Auditing and Assurance, Tax, Accounting/ Bookkeeping, Business Valuation, Advisory
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
SBNG is a public accounting firm that provides a full spectrum of quality accounting, attestation, and tax services, tailored to meet the needs and goals of each client. Utilizing teamwork, SBNG provides consistent and personalized services to clients while maintaining a pleasant, family-friendly, balanced, and nurturing environment for employees. SBNG aims to have stable growth by utilizing a fresh perspective to provide better services.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“SBNG works to build strong, long-lasting client relationships by working to be their most trusted advisor, which has led to expanded services provided to those clients and rapid growth through client referrals. In addition, SBNG has a strong focus of recruiting local talent and retaining employees by providing a casual, friendly, close-knit office environment and giving them a sustainable, achievable career path within the firm.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Marisol Trevino
Job Title: Partner/CEO
UTEP Degree: BBA in Marketing, 2008 and BBA in Accounting, 2014
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.squaremarketingagency.com
Number of Employees: 7
Year Established: 2019
Industry: Marketing
Top Clients or Service Focus: Marketing
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Square Communications is a full-service marketing agency specializing in reaching Hispanic audiences and serving as a representative of Televisa, one of the largest media companies in the world. The agency excels in traditional and digital media solutions, offering expertise in social media management, video production, sales promotions, website development, and advertising strategies for small to mid-sized businesses. Known for its excellence, transparency, and creativity, Square Communications delivers impactful campaigns that connect brands with their audiences.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“A key driver of Square Communications is the passion for marketing, our dedication to continuous education, and our commitment to delivering excellence for every client. By combining innovative strategies with a client-focused approach, Square Communications consistently achieves impactful results, helping businesses thrive and build strong connections with their audiences.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Sarah Ruiz
Job Title: Founder
UTEP Degree: Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Health Science, 2021
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.suncitydietitians.com
Number of Employees: 7
Year Established: 2019
Industry: Healthcare
Top Clients or Service Focus: Nutrition Counseling Services
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Sun City Dietitians is a private practice in El Paso, TX, founded by Sarah Ruiz, Ph.D., R.D.,
L.D., CDCES. The practice specializes in medical nutrition therapy and diabetes education, accredited by the American Diabetes Association. Serving a predominantly Hispanic community, their dietitians are dedicated to improving health through culturally relevant, evidence-based guidance. They empower clients to achieve their wellness goals with personalized care and support, fostering sustainable, long-term health outcomes.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“A key driver of Sun City Dietitians’ success has been its commitment to culturally relevant, personalized care tailored to the unique needs of a predominantly Hispanic community. By blending evidence-based nutrition guidance with a deep understanding of cultural preferences, the practice fosters trust and long-term client relationships. Additionally, its focus on diabetes education, accredited by the American Diabetes Association, has solidified its reputation as a trusted resource for improving health.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Linda Troncoso
Job Title: President
UTEP Degree: B.S. in Civil Engineering, 1998 and M.S. in Environmental Engineering, 2005
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.tr-eng.com
Number of Employees: 27
Year Established: 2011
Industry: Civil Engineering
Top Clients or Service Focus: Water/ Wastewater Infrastructure and Land Development
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
TRE & Associates is a multi-disciplinary civil engineering firm providing a variety of services including water, wastewater, street and drainage design, site developments, grading plans, subdivision plats, construction administration, engineering studies, and expert testimony. Additional expertise is provided by the firm for design of water and wastewater treatment facilities, major collection, and transmission infrastructure and pump stations. The firm provides complete civil engineering capabilities to assist governmental agencies, utility districts, and private developers throughout Texas.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“Key TRE personnel play an active role in the community through both social/volunteer and professional involvement. The team has served on municipal advisory committees for regulatory and legislative changes affecting both development and construction. This continuous communication with governmental agencies, leaders, and clients helps to expedite design and construction projects for efficient and effective entitlement and construction through project completion.”
BUSINESS LEADER
Name: Bernardo del Hierro
Job Title: President
UTEP Degree: BA in Organizational Communication and Public Relations, 2002
BUSINESS DETAILS
www.weststarbank.com/title/title-team
Number of Employees: 28
Year Established: 2017
Industry: Title Insurance Agency
Top Clients or Service Focus: Title & Escrow Services
BRIEF BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
WestStar Title is dedicated to providing title insurance, settlement, and escrow services to the Borderplex region. As a local company, the company believes in the power of community connections and the impact they can have together. That is why they are committed to supporting businesses, families, non-profits, and the very fabric of the community.
SUCCESS INSIGHTS
“Understanding our customers’ business needs and being committed to positively impacting our consumers through exceeding their expectations.”
