Hidalgo Looks to Science and Innovation to Enter Aerospace Industry
Hidalgo is exploring opportunities to enter the aerospace industry by strengthening ties between universities, government institutions and businesses, as the state seeks to translate its scientific and technological capabilities into new economic opportunities.
The initiative gained momentum during Rocket Revolution, an event hosted by the Polytechnic University of Pachuca (UPP) as part of Mexico's 2026 World Space Week.
Alejandro Franco Segura, coordinator general of Hidalgo's District of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (DESCTI), presented an overview of the state's aerospace potential, highlighting its geographic advantages, logistics infrastructure and available research capabilities.
He emphasized the importance of connecting these assets with specialized talent and technological development to help Hidalgo participate in aerospace supply chains.
Building an Aerospace Innovation Ecosystem
Hidalgo's strategy centers on closer cooperation between public institutions, universities and private companies to develop the capabilities required by an industry that relies on advanced engineering, specialized manufacturing and continuous technological innovation.
During the event, Fernando de la Peña Llaca, president of AEXA Aerospace, participated remotely in a presentation on aerospace projects involving NASA. The entrepreneur, who was born in Tulancingo, Hidalgo, shared his experience in space technology development and holographic communication solutions.
His participation also highlighted the potential for local talent to contribute to technology-driven industries through research, education and entrepreneurship.
The event provided an opportunity to identify research and development capabilities at UPP that could support future aerospace initiatives. However, the state will need to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry to translate these capabilities into commercial applications and manufacturing opportunities.
From Technical Talent to Industrial Opportunities
Hidalgo's government is seeking to diversify the state's economic base by connecting scientific research and professional training with emerging industries. Through DESCTI, officials aim to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and improve coordination between educational institutions, government agencies and the productive sector.
For the aerospace industry, this approach could create opportunities in engineering, technology development, specialized components and research partnerships, depending on how the state's capabilities evolve and how effectively they align with companies' needs.
The initiative reflects Hidalgo's broader effort to position science, innovation and talent development as drivers of economic growth.
While no new aerospace investment commitments were announced during the event, the discussions represent an initial step toward identifying potential partnerships and expanding the state's participation in a technology-intensive industry.
