This Week's Latest Tech News in El Paso, TX - Sunday April 20th 2025 Edition

El Paso's tech scene is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, with the sector generating over $2.3 billion for the local economy. Major expansions by tech giants like Microsoft and Schneider Electric are creating over 1,300 new tech positions, while the Advanced Manufacturing District promises 17,000 total jobs, including 4,000 in technology.

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) continues to drive innovation with its new $80 million Advanced Manufacturing and Aerospace Center, featuring 29 research labs.

The startup ecosystem is particularly vibrant, with companies stretching investment dollars further due to El Paso's strategic location and lower operating costs.

Local tech salaries are competitive, with a median of $92,000, and the job growth rate stands at 27%. The recent $19.7 million Space Innovation Hub grant further cements El Paso's position as an emerging tech powerhouse.

These developments, coupled with UTEP's cybersecurity initiatives funded by Google's $1 million grant, demonstrate El Paso's transformation into a leading tech destination, offering unprecedented opportunities for tech professionals and entrepreneurs alike.

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) has transformed its technological landscape with the opening of the $80 million Advanced Manufacturing and Aerospace Center (AMAC).

The facility houses 29 cutting-edge laboratories dedicated to advancing research in moon habitation, space robotics, and exotic-material 3D printing.

The W.M. Keck Center for 3D Innovation, a cornerstone of AMAC, features over 70 advanced 3D printers and collaborates with more than 100 industry partners.

UTEP's expansion into AI education includes a new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence program, projected to create 150 jobs in data analysis and engineering.

The center's impact extends beyond academia, as partnerships with NASA, the Department of Defense, and major aerospace companies drive innovation in aircraft safety, spacecraft design, and rocket propulsion.

UTEP's commitment to advancing discovery has already shown results, with successful alumni securing positions at industry leaders like Boeing, Blue Origin, and SpaceX. This investment reinforces El Paso's position as a growing tech hub, with the local tech sector contributing $2.3 billion to the regional economy and creating thousands of new jobs in advanced manufacturing and aerospace technology.

• Advanced Laboratories: UTEP's AMAC facilitates cutting-edge research in moon habitation and space robotics.
• AI Education: UTEP introduces a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence to create job opportunities in data analysis.
• Industry Collaboration: Partnerships with NASA and Defense foster advancements in aircraft safety and spacecraft design.
• Economic Growth: The tech sector in El Paso contributes significantly to the economy, creating numerous jobs.

Jessica Martin's role in the AMAC project has been pivotal, helping to establish collaborations with industry pioneers.

El Paso's transformation into a smart city hub is gaining momentum, with tech sector growth reaching $2.3 billion in economic impact.

The city's commitment to innovation is evident through strategic initiatives and partnerships, creating over 17,000 jobs across various sectors. Plan El Paso, the city's comprehensive smart growth strategy, focuses on sustainable development, enhanced urban mobility, and digital infrastructure improvements.

The initiative has received recognition from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for its outstanding approach to urban development. Local startups are leading the charge, with Atlas Sensor Technologies pioneering IoT innovations for urban infrastructure monitoring.

• Smart traffic management systems are reducing congestion by 25%.
• Environmental monitoring sensors provide real-time air quality data.
• Intelligent waste management solutions cut collection costs by 30%.
• Smart lighting projects are projected to deliver 50% energy savings.
• Connected public transport initiatives aim to boost ridership by 20%.

The integration of these technologies is supported by a $26.5 million infrastructure investment, addressing the digital divide and ensuring widespread access to high-speed internet.

These developments are creating numerous opportunities in cybersecurity and full-stack development, with median salaries reaching $92,000. The initiative demonstrates El Paso's dedication to becoming a sustainable, efficient metropolis while fostering economic growth through technology-driven solutions.

El Paso County's digital landscape is undergoing a major transformation through Digital El Paso's three-year initiative, which aims to tackle the digital divide head-on.

Recent data shows that 1 in 4 households in the region still lack internet access, with the situation being particularly challenging in rural areas. The Texas Broadband Development Office has stepped up by launching a $30 million pilot program specifically designed to support Low Earth Orbit satellite broadband service in unserved rural regions.

This investment comes at a crucial time, as studies indicate that every $1 invested in El Paso's broadband infrastructure generates $2 in regional economic output.

The initiative has gained significant momentum through Borderplex Connect's regional coalition, which brings together public, private, and nonprofit organizations to provide internet services, device access, and digital skills training to economically challenged areas.

Key improvements include:

• High-capacity fiber routes: Establishing middle-mile fiber routes to enable better connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
• Strategic partnerships: Creating collaborations with local ISPs to enhance network infrastructure and service delivery.

The program also focuses on supporting school children, public housing residents, and small businesses, with particular attention to areas where broadband accessibility has been historically limited.

This comprehensive approach includes community needs assessment, infrastructure development, and digital literacy programs, positioning El Paso to become the largest binational connected community globally.

The transformation is already showing promising results, with new fiber connections being established and existing infrastructure being enhanced to ensure reliable connectivity across the region.

Despite challenges such as geographical barriers and infrastructure costs, innovative solutions including wireless mesh networks and satellite technology are being implemented to ensure no community is left behind in this digital revolution.

The 2025 El Paso Tech Summit is shaping up to be a game-changing event for our city's tech scene. Following the success of previous summits, which contributed to El Paso's tech sector now generating over $2.3 billion for the local economy, this year's event promises even greater impact.

The summit brings together educators, entrepreneurs, and investors to tackle pressing challenges like digital equity and workforce development.

Key speakers include industry leaders from Microsoft's local expansion team, which is creating 1,000 new tech positions, and representatives from UTEP's cybersecurity initiative.

The event showcases El Paso's remarkable tech growth, with the Advanced Manufacturing District generating 17,000 total jobs, including 4,000 in technology.

Participants can explore topics ranging from AI integration to sustainable tech solutions, with specialized tracks for both established professionals and emerging talents.

The summit features hands-on workshops, networking sessions, and panel discussions focused on bridging the digital divide, particularly in Hispanic communities.

With El Paso's median tech salary now at $92,000 and job growth rate at 27%, the summit serves as a crucial platform for connecting talent with opportunities.

Registration includes access to all sessions, workshop materials, and networking events, with special rates for students and early-career professionals. The summit reflects El Paso's evolution into a major tech hub, bringing together diverse perspectives to shape the future of technology in our region.

El Paso's renewable energy sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with El Paso Electric (EPE) leading innovative energy infrastructure changes that are reshaping the region's power landscape.

The utility has completely eliminated coal from its generation portfolio since 2016 and is actively pursuing its ambitious 2025 clean energy targets. A standout achievement is the Buena Vista Energy Center, featuring 120 megawatts of solar capacity and 50 megawatts of battery storage, marking a significant step toward grid modernization.

The facility's implementation has already contributed to EPE's goal of achieving 80% carbon-free energy by 2035.

The economic impact of these initiatives is substantial, with the Milagro Solar+Storage project creating approximately 200 construction jobs and generating $7.9 million in tax revenue for local institutions.

This project alone will generate 469,500 MWh of clean energy annually, preventing over 333,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions - equivalent to taking 74,000 cars off the road.

EPE's community solar program has expanded to accommodate over 7,000 customers, with current subscription rates showing strong community support for renewable initiatives.

These developments are transforming El Paso into a hub for sustainable energy innovation.

The integration of smart grid technology and battery storage systems is enabling more efficient power distribution and creating new opportunities for tech professionals in the renewable energy sector.

With the planned addition of 715 megawatts of solar energy by 2025, El Paso is positioning itself as a leader in the clean energy transition, proving that environmental responsibility and economic growth can successfully coexist.

El Paso's cybersecurity landscape is experiencing rapid growth with leading firms like Makios Technologies and Novatech Systems driving innovation in digital defense.

The sector projects 22% job growth by 2024, with companies implementing advanced threat detection, endpoint protection, and 24/7 monitoring services. Makios Technology has emerged as a standout player, delivering comprehensive cybersecurity solutions across El Paso and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, while maintaining impressive client satisfaction metrics.

Their services have helped reduce system downtime and strengthen network security for businesses across healthcare, finance, and government sectors.

Local advancement in cybersecurity is further supported by Cisco's Secure El Paso Initiative, which invested $10 million for tech job creation and cybersecurity enhancement.

The city's Department of Information Technology Services has allocated $26.5 million for tech infrastructure improvements, while major players like ADP and Verizon continue expanding their security operations.

Through partnerships with UTEP's Innovation Lab, companies are developing AI-driven security solutions and training the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

The impact of these initiatives is measurable, with local businesses reporting significant improvements in threat detection and response times.

El Paso's cybersecurity firms now offer specialized services including ransomware protection, compliance-ready reporting, and disaster recovery planning. This comprehensive approach to digital security has positioned El Paso as an emerging hub for cybersecurity excellence, attracting both talent and investment to the region.

The AI landscape in El Paso is experiencing rapid transformation in 2025, with significant developments creating over 17,000 jobs, including 4,000 specifically in technology sectors.

Companies are integrating AI solutions across various industries, with major players like Microsoft and Schneider Electric leading the charge. Local businesses are witnessing a surge in AI adoption, although companies plan to increase their AI spending by 14% year-over-year in 2025, reflecting both opportunities and challenges in implementation.

The median salary in the tech ecosystem has reached $92,000, with a 27% job growth rate, particularly in AI, cloud computing, and green technology sectors.

The integration of AI presents unique challenges, including implementation costs and workforce development needs.

However, state and local organizations are laying the groundwork for AI adoption through strategic initiatives in data analysis, automation, and digital transformation.

UTEP's Innovation Lab, launching a new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence program, is expected to create 150 jobs in data analysis and engineering, helping address the skilled workforce shortage.

Looking ahead, El Paso's tech scene shows promise with AI architects earning up to $155,000 annually and software engineers commanding salaries up to $198,000.

The startup ecosystem has reached a valuation of $2.3 billion, with key players emerging in IoT and internship opportunities. The city's strategic position and affordability continue to attract investments, with over $175 million injected into local tech initiatives.

The economic impact is expected to grow substantially, driven by increased automation, improved efficiency, and new business opportunities in crucial sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and energy.

In 2025, El Paso stands as a pioneer in telemedicine innovation, with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center leading initiatives across 108 counties in West Texas.

The region's healthcare landscape has been transformed through strategic digital health implementations, particularly benefiting rural communities. The recent establishment of the TTUHSC Institute of Telehealth and Digital Innovation marks a significant milestone, focusing on three key pillars: expanded access to care, research development, and academic training for future healthcare professionals.

Statistics show remarkable progress, with local healthcare providers reporting over 14,000 successful telehealth visits across various specialties, including speech, physical, and occupational therapy.

The integration of technology has made specialty consultations more accessible, covering areas from dermatology to cardiology and psychiatry.

According to El Paso medical providers, the shift toward telehealth services has become permanent, with facilities maintaining fully staffed operations to support both virtual and in-person care.

• Enhanced patient safety: The implementation of advanced sanitization protocols and remote monitoring programs has enhanced patient safety and care quality.
• Improved service quality: Looking ahead, the region's healthcare institutions are focusing on improving service quality through better technology and patient education.
• Addressing connectivity challenges: Efforts to address connectivity challenges in rural areas continue as a priority for healthcare improvements.

This digital transformation has not only improved healthcare accessibility but has also demonstrated significant cost advantages and improved patient outcomes, particularly for those in remote locations who previously faced transportation barriers to accessing specialized care.

El Paso's evolution into a smart city is accelerating in 2025, with over 90 transformative projects reshaping the urban landscape.

The city's comprehensive strategy includes upgrading all parking meters to 5G connectivity and implementing smart traffic systems that have reduced congestion by 20%.

A cornerstone of this transformation is El Paso Electric's rollout of 500,000 smart meters, enabling precise energy monitoring and potential cost savings for residents through time-of-use rates.

These smart initiatives are supported by a $26.5 million investment in tech infrastructure, demonstrating the city's commitment to digital advancement.

The implementation of Plan El Paso has established a framework for sustainable growth, incorporating green building practices and smart development principles that prioritize both technology and environmental stewardship.

Community engagement remains strong, with digital literacy programs connecting over 6,000 residents to new technologies and resources. The city's smart initiatives extend beyond infrastructure to include collaborative platforms like El Paso Helps, which has already assisted nearly 2,000 residents in crisis.

Through these integrated solutions, El Paso is creating a more connected, efficient, and sustainable urban environment that serves as a model for smart city development across the Southwest.

El Paso's tech landscape is experiencing a transformative shift in 2025, with women taking center stage in the industry's growth. Change Makers: Borderland Women in Tech, featuring Microsoft Corporate Vice President Vanessa Feliberti Bautista, showcases the region's commitment to advancing women in technology.

The local tech sector is projected to create over 1,500 high-paying jobs in the next five years, with Full Stack Development emerging as the most in-demand role.

The She Creates Foundation's 2025 STEM Conference is actively building a community of women who can thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries, offering practical workshops and networking opportunities.

El Paso's strategic position along the U.S.-Mexico border, handling nearly 20% of all cross-border trade, creates unique opportunities for tech innovation.

UTEP's Paydirt Promise program now covers families earning up to $100,000, making tech education more accessible than ever.

Major employers like Microsoft, Helen of Troy, and ADP are driving demand for skills in JavaScript, Python, and cloud technologies, with median salaries reaching $92,000 for Full Stack Developers.

The city's tech job market is experiencing a 27% growth rate, supported by Microsoft's data center creating over 1,000 new positions.

The STTE Foundation's "AI in the Borderlands" initiative and increased funding for education, totaling $292 million in grants, demonstrate the region's commitment to developing local talent.

This ecosystem of support, education, and opportunity is transforming El Paso into a leading tech hub while ensuring women play a pivotal role in its future.

El Paso's tech landscape is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by major developments and strategic investments. UTEP's new $80 million Advanced Manufacturing and Aerospace Center, featuring 29 research labs, is revolutionizing space technology and 3D printing innovation.

The tech sector's economic impact has reached $2.3 billion, with a notable median tech salary of $92,000. The Advanced Manufacturing District is set to create 17,000 jobs, including 4,000 technology positions, marking a significant milestone in the city's development.

• Expansion of major tech companies: Schneider Electric's addition of 300 new jobs further solidifies El Paso's position as an emerging tech hub. Read more about Schneider Electric's expansion.
• Microsoft's expansion: Creating 1,000 new tech positions and comprehensive community initiatives addressing digital literacy, El Paso is fostering an inclusive tech ecosystem.

The city's commitment to innovation is evident in its robust startup scene, valued at $2.3 billion, and strategic educational partnerships that ensure a skilled workforce pipeline.

UTEP's cybersecurity program, supported by a $1 million Google grant, boasts a 100% job placement rate with average starting salaries of $110,000, demonstrating the strong demand for tech talent.

Initiative	Impact	Details
Google Grant	100% job placement	Supports UTEP's cybersecurity program
Startup Valuation	$2.3 billion	Robust and growing ecosystem

As El Paso continues to attract major investments and expand its digital infrastructure, the city is rapidly transforming into a leading technology center, offering diverse opportunities for tech professionals and businesses alike.