2023
Annual Report
The Power of Partnerships: Navigating Change & Driving Growth
Front Cover Photo Credit: iStock — simonkr Aerial View of Beltway 8, Houston, Texas
INTRODUCTION The Power of Partnerships: Navigating Change & Driving Growth Partnerships across 47 years When partnerships work well, they have the potential to excel given the right circumstances and perhaps just a bit of serendipity. Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership, BAHEP, has served the Harris County / Galveston County region since being incorporated on Dec. 16, 1976, and has enjoyed a rich history of bringing new companies to the area and creating new employment pathways for residents. The spectacular growth the region has seen during this period didn’t just happen – it was an orchestrated effort that involved public officials, educators, business leaders, and residents all working together through partnerships that have enriched the region and the lives of its people. BAHEP has successfully engaged with its member committees and partners from every sector of the region to strengthen and grow Bay Area Houston’s economy and provide opportunity for individuals as well as companies. Within this annual report, BAHEP demonstrates the power of partnerships. 2
TABLE OF
CONTENTS 2024 Board of Directors
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Message from the Outgoing Chair
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Message from the Incoming Chair
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Message from the President
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The Power of Partnerships: Navigating Change and Driving Growth
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Legislative initiatives prove successful Houston Spaceport continues expansion BAHEP hosts top tier speakers Record number of international delegations hosted by BAHEP Committees added, others recharged Certified manufacturing training offered through BayTech SATOP expands to meet increased demand
Cup of Joey September 2023
9 12 14 18 18 18 19
Executive Committee
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Executive Committee Ex Officio Members
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Membership
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Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership 2024 Board of Directors EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE EX OFFICIO MEMBERS Jennifer Bowers, Partner, Bowers & Sadler, LLP Gale E. Burkett, President / CEO, GB Tech, Inc. Fred Griffin, Founder / Chairman, Griffin Partners Marc Havican, President, Space City Films, Inc. Joy H. Kelly, Ph.D., Vice President / General Manager, Jacobs Kenny Koncaba, Senior Vice President / Corporate Banker, Frost Bank Tim C. Kropp, Executive Vice President, MRI Technologies Bernard A. Milstein, M.D., President, The Eye Clinic of Texas Denise S. Navarro, Founder / President / CEO, Logical Innovations, Inc. Charlie Stegemoeller, Director, Strategic Solutions, Leidos Space Exploration and Mission Operations Vanessa E. Wyche, Director, NASA Johnson Space Center
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS Chair: Gwen Griffin, CEO, Griffin Communications Group Vice Chair: John Mulholland, Vice President / Program Manager, International Space Station (ISS), The Boeing Company Secretary: Kelly Page, President, Barrios Technology Treasurer: Jennifer Bowers, Partner, Bowers and Sadler, LLP EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Todd Caliva, CEO, HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake Nellie Chappell-White, President / CEO, JES Tech Mark Gittleman, P.E., Chief Strategy Officer, Aegis Aerospace, Inc. Dick H. Gregg, Jr., Attorney-at-Law / President, Gregg & Gregg, P.C. Gwen Griffin, CEO, Griffin Communications Group Brenda Hellyer, Ed.D., Chancellor, San Jacinto College District Jorge Hernandez, President, Bastion Technologies, Inc. Laurie Labra, Vice President, Human Exploration Division, KBR John Mulholland, Vice President / Program Manager, International Space Station (ISS), The Boeing Company Kelly Page, President, Barrios Technology Victor Pierson, Chairman / President / CEO, Moody Bank Kirk Shireman, Vice President, Lunar Exploration Campaigns, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company John Wilkins, CEO, CLC Properties
BOARD OF DIRECTORS R.J. Boatman, Executive Director, TABI, LLC Jennifer Bowers, Partner, Bowers and Sadler, LLP Gale E. Burkett, President / CEO, GB Tech, Inc. Todd Caliva, CEO, HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake Noel J. Cárdenas, FACHE, Senior Vice President / CEO, Memorial Hermann Southeast and Pearland Hospitals Nellie Chappell-White, President / CEO, JES Tech Jeff Dudderar, Houston Market President, Home Bank Jerry E. Fliger, Ph.D., Vice President for Instruction, College of the Mainland Col. Michael E. Fossum, USAFR (Ret.), COO, Texas A&M University at Galveston Jeff Gionnette, Senior General Manager, Retail, Brookfield Properties Mark Gittleman, P.E., Chief Strategy Officer, Aegis Aerospace, Inc.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE HONORARY CHAIRMAN Frans Gillebaard (1939 - 2013)
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2023 Annual Report Kevin Repa, Vice President / General Manager, All Points Logistics, LLC Glenn Royal, CFP, Chief Investment Officer / Partner, Royal Harbor Partners, LLC Wayne Rutledge, Broker / Owner, Rutledge Commercial Real Estate Kirk Shireman, Vice President, Lunar Exploration Campaigns, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company Elizabeth Smith, Owner / Agent, Elizabeth Smith Life and Health Insurance Chad Stine, Director, Strategic Business Engagement, CenterPoint Energy Frank Taylor, Director of Corporate Governance & Corporate Counsel, Kuraray America, Inc. Richard Walker, Ed.D., President, University of Houston— Clear Lake John Wilkins, CEO, CLC Properties
Dick H. Gregg, Jr., Attorney-at-Law / President, Gregg & Gregg, P.C. Edward M. Griffin, CEO, Griffin Partners Gwen Griffin, CEO, Griffin Communications Group Darrin Hall, Director, Corporate and Community Affairs, United Airlines Karen Wheeler-Hall, CEO / Owner, Rothe Development, Inc. Brenda Hellyer, Ed.D., Chancellor, San Jacinto College District Jorge Hernandez, President / CEO, Bastion Technologies, Inc. Walter Jackson, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools, La Porte ISD Carl Joiner, Chairman / CEO, Joiner Architects Stephen K. Jones, MHA, FACHE, Vice President, Health System Strategy, CEO Clear Lake Campus, The University of Texas Medical Branch Joy H. Kelly, Ph.D., Vice President / General Manager, Jacobs Jeannie Kranz, Senior Director, Civil Space Strategy & Growth | Space & Intelligence Sector, Peraton Tim C. Kropp, Executive Vice President, MRI Technologies Laurie Labra, Vice President, Human Exploration Division, KBR Carl Little, CEO / Senior Vice President, Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital Jamieson Mackay, CCUFC, Senior Vice President, Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union John Martinec, President, AeroSys, LLC Erin McDonald, Senior Vice President, Frost Bank Bernard A. Milstein, M.D., President, The Eye Clinic of Texas John Mulholland, Vice President and Program Manager, International Space Station (ISS), The Boeing Company Denise S. Navarro, Founder / President / CEO, Logical Innovations, Inc. Lt. Gen. Douglas H. Owens, USAF (Ret.), CEO, Lone Star Flight Museum Kelly Page, President, Barrios Technology Marty Pell, President / CEO, Wellby Financial Victor Pierson, Chairman / President / CEO, Moody Bank Bill Provenzano, Senior Vice President, Hometown Bank
BOARD EX OFFICIO MEMBERS Chad Burke, President / CEO, Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Mary Alys Cherry, Editor / Publisher, Bay Area Houston Magazine Cindy DeWease, President / CEO, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Glenn Freedman, Ph.D., President, EduSafe Systems, Inc. Marcy Fryday, Marketing Director, Lakewood Yacht Club Kenny Koncaba, Senior Vice President / Corporate Banker, Frost Bank Amy Skicki, Executive Director, Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership (BayTran) Charlie Stegemoeller, Director, Strategic Solutions, Leidos Space Exploration and Mission Operations Mike Sullivan, Director of Governmental Affairs and Corporate Partnerships, Group 1 Automotive, Inc. Vanessa E. Wyche, Director, NASA Johnson Space Center
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Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Message from the Outgoing Chair Last year as the incoming board chair I wrote, “The Strategic Plan charges the organization to ‘Lead and/or coordinate partnerships that enhance regional economic development’. This one sentence is the basis of BAHEP’s multifaceted work.” The theme of this year’s annual report was selected due to the impact that BAHEP and its partnerships at the local, state, and federal levels have made and will continue to make.
ble increase in funding will provide small Texas businesses FREE assistance in solving technical challenges through a network of SATOP’s Alliance Partners. The economic significance of just these two measures alone can’t be overstated. They will spur growth in the region, Texas, and beyond our borders for our benefit and for generations to come. BAHEP’s partnerships, as outlined in this report, clearly demonstrate the power of teamwork. I have enjoyed this year as BAHEP’s chair and being a part of this remarkable organization. I sincerely want to thank Brian and the staff, the members of the Executive Committee and board for their support, wise guidance, and friendship. I wish Gwen the same enjoyment in the year ahead.
Through the concerted effort of BAHEP, Texas A&M University, NASA, and other stakeholders, the 88th Texas Legislature passed HB 3447. Rep. Greg Bonnen, M.D., who chairs the House Appropriations Committee, authored the bill to create the Texas Space Commission, the Space Exploration and Aeronautics Research Fund, and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium. With $200 million in allocated funds, Texas A&M will build a facility next to NASA Johnson Space Center under the auspices of its newly created Texas A&M Space Institute.
Sincerely,
Additionally, the 88th Texas Legislature increased funding for BAHEP’s Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program for the FY2024-FY2025 biennium to expand the program to all regions in Texas with a focus on underserved areas. The nota-
Tim C. Kropp 2023 Board Chair Executive Vice President, MRI Technologies
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2023 Annual Report
Message from the Incoming Chair Houston Spaceport, and the region’s education leadership to meet the demands of this vibrant sector. BAHEP will stay focused on working with local, state, and federal legislators to advocate for a fully funded NASA budget and to help secure new commercial space opportunities, companies, and jobs.
As a local business owner, I’ve been privileged to work with the incredible team at BAHEP, dating back to 1997 when the organization was called CLAEDF. Over the years, I’ve seen the positive impact this organization has had on our communities through business development and the creation of new jobs. BAHEP has often been the rock upon which this region leans for guidance and leadership. A job well done for 47 years. With constant economic, political, and environmental change, we have more work to do and challenges to solve.
In addition to expanding our SATOP and BayTech programs, we will continue to work with the Gulf Coast Protection District, the Texas General Land Office, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and our elected officials to advance progress on the coastal barrier system. The healthcare and specialty chemical sectors are thriving in our region, and BAHEP will further its engagement with these sectors to assist in their growth. I want to thank outgoing Chair Tim Kropp for his commitment and leadership this past year. And, to Brian and the BAHEP staff, your accomplishments in 2023 usher us into the new year in an excellent position. I’m honored to serve as Chair of BAHEP, a powerhouse organization that has played a huge role in my company’s success for more than 25 years.
The foundation that guides BAHEP is its strategic plan. Development of our next strategic plan will be a major undertaking for Brian, the Board of Directors, and trusted advisors in early 2024. The plan will provide a framework that addresses and validates BAHEP’s mission, vision, and values and will include details on how we will accomplish our goals. The current needs and future requirements of the region’s industry job clusters, as well as the non-industry clusters, provide a rich compound from which to formulate the plan.
Sincerely,
The growing number of companies that are locating to the Houston Spaceport is terrific. No other commercial spaceport is located in a city larger than Houston which provides countless opportunities for aerospace growth and technology innovation. We will continue our work with the Houston Airport System, the
Gwen Griffin 2024 Board Chair Founder & CEO, Griffin Communications Group 7
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Message from the President When you’re energized and excited about making a difference in the community, time both stands still and rushes by. In my inaugural year as president of Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership, this sentence encapsulates my journey over the past 12 months. Fortunately, I didn’t make the journey alone. The BAHEP team has been incredible and definitely sets the standard for experience, professionalism, and enthusiasm. I consider them a key component of the work that we do. The Board of Directors and Executive Committee have been foundational in all that the organization accomplishes. Their expert guidance has been invaluable. My sincerest appreciation is extended to them all.
forces with the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce to emphasize to our legislators in Austin the importance of the creation, management, and administration of the Texas Space Commission and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium. As you read this report, think about the individual people who worked in partnership with many others to make a difference in Bay Area Houston and far beyond. They will continue their important efforts in 2024 as we craft BAHEP’s next strategic plan, navigate increasingly complex political environments, and work the number of new projects in the region. What a year it promises to be!
What a year this has been! BAHEP has added 30 new members including the City of La Marque and the City of Texas City. New cities bring in additional opportunities in collaboration with our other member cities. The Citizens for Space Exploration group, a subcommittee of BAHEP’s Aerospace Advisory Committee, made two trips to Washington, D.C., first visiting with freshmen members of Congress and later conducting meetings with members of the full House and Senate, in support of a fully-funded NASA budget. BAHEP also joined
Sincerely,
Brian Freedman President Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
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2023 Annual Report
The Power of Partnerships: Navigating Change & Driving Growth Legislative initiatives prove successful BAHEP worked closely with state legislators on behalf of HB 3447. Authored by Rep. Greg Bonnen, M.D., RFriendswood, and sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, the bill related to the creation, management, and administration of the Texas Space Commission and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium. Texas A&M TODAY reported, “The members of the Board of Regents of The Texas A&M University System on Wednesday (Aug. 16, 2023) approved the creation of the Texas A&M Space Institute and the construction of a Texas A&M facility next to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “The board’s action follows a $350 million investment from the Texas Legislature. The measure also allocates $200 million to Texas A&M for construction of the facility at the Johnson Space Center.
The purpose of the resource in Houston is to ensure that Texas remains a leader in the field of space exploration. Scientists and other personnel at the facility will support mission training, aeronautics research, advanced robotics and work on lunar and Martian exploration. “As for the institute, the vision involves expanding Texas’s role as the leader in the new space economy. It would leverage Texas A&M’s existing expertise and resources to make new discoveries, technological developments, health advances and workforce growth. It will depend on partnerships with public and private entities in a variety of sectors from across the country. “’The Texas A&M Space Institute will make sure the state expands its role as a leader in the new space economy,’ John Sharp, chancellor of the Texas A&M System, said. ‘No university is better equipped for aeronautics and space projects than Texas A&M.’” An additional $150 million was appropriated from the General Revenue Fund and 9
Sen. Joan Huffman
Rep. Greg Bonnen, M.D.
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership In preparation for the trip to the State Capitol in February, BAHEP presented the legislative agenda to its local state legislators for a review and feedback. Legislators participating in the review were State Sen.-elect Mayes Middleton and Reps. Greg Bonnen, M.D., Briscoe Cain, Dennis Paul, and Ed Thompson. The legislative agenda topics were: * Education and Workforce Development * Supporting the Region’s Healthcare System * Gulf Coast Protection District (Coastal Barrier System) * Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program and Texas Aerospace Scholars Program * Transportation Funding / BayTran * Economic Development Incentives * Council of Mayors’ Legislative Priorities * State Leadership in Space and Spaceport Trust Fund
State Legislators give update following session Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership brought Austin to League City when it hosted the 88th Texas Legislative Session Update on June 15, 2023, at South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center. Five of the region’s legislators spoke of the Texas 88th Legislative Session and its accomplishments during the update. BAHEP hosts this biennial event for its members to keep them informed of legislative activities that may impact them.
Chancellor John Sharp Texas A&M System
Shown (l to r) in the photo on the next page are: Tim Kropp, BAHEP 2023 board chair and executive vice president, MRI Technologies, Inc.; BAHEP President Brian Freedman; Reps. Briscoe Cain, Dennis Paul, Mary Ann Perez, Greg Bonnen, M.D., Ed Thompson; Dr. Brenda Hellyer, chancellor, San Jacinto College District; and Teri Crawford, vice chancellor, External Relations, San Jacinto College, and chair of BAHEP’s Political Protocol Committee.
deposited in the Space Exploration and Aeronautics Research Fund for use by the Texas Space Commission.
State Legislators review legislative agenda The BAHEP Political Protocol Committee developed the legislative agenda, which was presented by a BAHEP-led delegation to the 88th Texas Legislature on Feb. 28, 2023.
The committee organized the event in partnership with BAHEP 10
2023 Annual Report
By bringing together private, federal, military, and educational entities, Texas can create a comprehensive plan to further advance its space exploration efforts. Rep. Greg Bonnen, M.D. Membership Director Harriet Pilgrim and generated the questions asked of the legislative panel.
tition in the space industry, Texas must strategically position itself and leverage its existing strengths in space research and development.
Dr. Bonnen shared that Texas is in a strong fiscal position, which bodes well for the state’s future. He highlighted the significance of the Texas Space Commission and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium. This legislation is widely considered to be crucial for the state of Texas and the space community as a whole. It was noted that, with the increasing compe-
The panelists discussed various legislative accomplishments and their significance. Overall, the conversation showcased the legislators’ pride and satisfaction in their legislative accomplishments and their understanding of the impact these bills can have on various issues in the state.
Texas 88th Legislative Session Update 11
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Houston Spaceport continues expansion The Houston Airport System (HAS) received a commercial spaceport license from the Federal Aviation Administration on June 30, 2015. BAHEP engaged frequently with HAS toward the achievement of this goal.
yond. Intuitive Machines’ products and services are offered through its four business units: Lunar Access Services, Orbital Services, Lunar Data Services, and Space Products and Infrastructure. Intuitive Machines opened its Lunar Production and Operations Center on Sept. 29, 2023, at the Houston Spaceport.
AxEMU
Axiom Space Intuitive Machines In subsequent years, BAHEP has continued to work projects that add to the expansion of the Spaceport. This includes work with Intuitive Machines, Inc. Intuitive Machines is a diversified space company focused on space exploration. It supplies space products and services to support sustained robotic and human exploration to the Moon, Mars, and be-
Axiom Space is building a 14-acre headquarters campus at the Houston Spaceport where the aerospace company plans to develop its Axiom Station, the world’s first free-flying, private space station. The project will include a 322,000square-foot facility to accommodate Axiom Station modules as well as terminal space to house private as-
Intuitive Machines
tronauts, operations, engineering, and related activities. The new Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) spacesuit will provide astronauts advanced capabilities for space exploration while providing NASA with commercially developed human systems needed to access, live, and work on and around the Moon. The advanced spacesuits ensure astronauts are equipped with highperforming, robust equipment and are designed to accommodate a wide range of crew members.
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2023 Annual Report Collins Aerospace Next-Generation Spacesuit Collins Aerospace Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. In August 2022, the company celebrated the opening of its new, 120,000 square-foot facility located at the Houston Spaceport. Collins’ facility represents a $30 million investment. The increased footprint allows for expanded operations, manufacturing, and testing. Along with Collins’ existing space facilities in California, Connecticut, and Illinois, the Houston Spaceport location supports the development and testing of several key space systems, including the next-generation spacesuit — which astronauts could wear to
work outside the International Space Station and on the moon — as well as Collins’ Universal Waste Management System and trash compactor.
Partnerships make it possible The partnerships that BAHEP has established over almost five decades and the partnerships that its partners formed have resulted in change and growth for the entire region. Arguably, one of the most spectacular success stories can be found at the Houston Spaceport. Once an empty field, the Spaceport is flourishing and attracting international delegations that are seeking potential collaborations with the aerospace industry.
BAHEP’s January 2023 Aerospace Advisory Committee luncheon meeting featured a presentation by Rep. Greg Bonnen, M.D. 13
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
BAHEP hosts top tier speakers Through its flagship General Membership Meetings, BAHEP hosts top tier speakers who present on topics relevant and timely for its diversified membership. Speakers throughout 2023 included Patrick Jankowski, senior vice president of Research and chief economist at the Greater Houston Partnership, whose topic was Growth, Stagnation or Recession: The Outlook for Metro Houston in 2023. He said during the meeting held in late February, “We do have a lot of momentum going into this year. I think Houston’s going to do fine. If, if, if the U.S. slips into a recession this year, it’s not a permanent state of being. There is ample opportunity for growth. We just need not to fixate on the possibility of a downturn and realize that long-term things look pretty good.”
State of the Economy GMM
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership welcomed Eliza Paul, P.E., as its featured speaker for its General Membership Meeting held in March. Paul has been with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for over 30 years and currently serves as the Houston District Engineer for the sixcounty Houston District. She spoke of many issues during her presentation including what TxDOT is doing regarding safer driving; population changes in the U.S. and in Texas; the economic impact of moving freight and supply chains in the state; and ConnectSmart, a transportation app designed for Houston by Houston providing intermodal travel options for daily commutes.
TxDOT GMM
TWC GMM
In April, Chairman Bryan Daniel, Texas Workforce Commission, presented on How is Texas Preparing a Workforce of the Future? addressing the skills gap in Texas. The TWC chairman told the audience, “In order to fill the many available jobs in Texas, local groups need to come together and focus on workforce development. The state can assist, but the real progress will happen at the local level.” He noted that 92 percent of jobs in Texas require some training after high school, and only 8 percent are entry-level, no -skill positions.
Education Panel GMM
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2023 Annual Report On May 31, 2023, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership hosted a “fireside chat” with five distinguished regional leaders from higher education. The late afternoon event focused on recent legislation, funding, and the impact of these institutions on economic development. The education panel featured Dr. Richard Walker, president, University of Houston-Clear Lake; Dr. Robert Exley, president, Alvin Community College; Dr. Warren Nichols, president, College of the Mainland; and Dr. Brenda Hellyer, chancellor, San Jacinto College District. It was noted that there’s
a lot of growth and development in sectors like healthcare, biotechnology, petrochemical, aerospace, logistics, and hospitality. The institutions are striving to develop their programs to meet the workforce demands of these growing sectors. BAHEP hosted the 88th Texas Legislative Session Update on June 15, 2023, with State Reps. Greg Bonnen, M.D., Dennis Paul, Mary Ann Perez, Ed Thompson, and Briscoe Cain. Details of the update can be found on pages 10-11.
Texas 88th Legislative Session Update
Ellington Field JRB GMM
Coastal Texas Project GMM
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Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Elling
ton F
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RB GM
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District E Candidate Forum Following a summer break from meetings in July, Col. Travis D. Walters, commander, 147th Attack Wing, Texas Air National Guard, Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base, spoke on various topics, including infrastructure, airmen readiness, new missions, and the future of Ellington Field, during the August General Membership Meeting. He accentuated that the future of the Wing is not solely reliant on facilities or aircraft, but rather on the dedication and pride of the airmen who serve there. Walters discussed several aspects of Ellington Field and their significance in the community. He also highlighted the collaborative effort between military services and civilian partners on the base.
Coastal Texas Project: The Path Forward. This was the topic of discussion for BAHEP’s September General Membership Meeting. Participants on the Coastal Texas Project panel were Lt. Col. Ian P. O’Sullivan, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Galveston District’s deputy commander for Mega Projects; Dr. Kelly Burks-Copes, USACE Galveston District’s interim program manager for the Coastal Texas Protection and Restoration Project; Nicole Sunstrum, inaugural executive director of the Gulf Coast Protection District (GCPD); and Dianna Ramirez, Upper Coast Regional manager of Coastal Field Operations and environmental lead for the Coastal Texas Program, Texas General Land Office (GLO). 16
Dr. Burks-Copes and the panelists discussed in great detail The Path Forward during the hour-long meeting. The GCPD is working closely with the USACE and the GLO to advance storm surge reduction projects in its jurisdiction. The GCPD serves as the nonfederal sponsor for two major programs: the Sabine Pass to Galveston Bay Coastal Storm Risk Management project and the Coastal Texas Protection and Restoration project. The Coastal Texas project aims to enhance the region’s resiliency, protect against storm surges, and generate significant economic benefits. Collaboration and support from stakeholders, local partners, and the federal government are essential to its success.
2023 Annual Report
The university’s Space Institute plays a role in studying lunar and Martian surfaces, necessitating the creation of a facility, in collaboration with NASA, to replicate these surfaces for mission training and aeronautics research, with a substantial appropriation from the Texas Legislature of $200 million for its development. Sharp highlighted A&M’s unique resources and contributions in spacerelated research and development, including robotics testing and more. Sharp spoke about high-tech developments and research projects at Texas A&M University, such as high-energy laser experiments, nuclear engineering research, and collaboration with Los Alamos. The university's ability to move quickly and efficiently in research and development activities was emphasized. Sharp’s speech underscored the significance of Texas A&M’s contributions to various fields and the importance of its students in
The BAHEP Political Protocol Committee, chaired by San Jacinto College Vice Chancellor of External Relations Teri Crawford, hosted a forum on Oct. 12, 2023, for the two candidates running for the open Houston City Council District E position, Fred Flickinger and Martina Lemond Dixon. The current District E council member, Mayor Pro Tem Dave Martin, is term limited with his tenure ending at the end of 2023. More than 110 business leaders, community residents, and elected officials attended the event. Garnering 57 percent of votes cast on Nov. 7, Flickinger won the District E race. Chancellor John Sharp, Texas A&M University System, spoke on Tradition Meets Tomorrow: Texas A&M's Path from Academic Excellence to Aerospace Innovation during BAHEP’s November General Membership Meeting.
Chancellor John Sharp GMM
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Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership shaping the institution’s future impact. Texas A&M’s focus on student job placement has contributed to its ranking as the number one university in Texas.
Record number of international delegations hosted by BAHEP BAHEP, in coordination with several partnerships, hosted 18 international delegations throughout 2023. They were in Houston to focus on its aerospace ecosystem and seek out potential collaborations with the aerospace industry. Delegations included those from Denmark, Norway, Germany, Italy, France, India, Japan,
Mexico, Hungary, and Tasmania with more than one visit from several of them.
Certified manufacturing
Committees added, others recharged
BayTech
BAHEP’s committees work to serve the needs of the organization and the region. Three new committees were formed in 2023: Membership Engagement Committee, Public Safety Committee, and Energy Committee. Additionally, the Small Business Committee and Healthcare Committee have recharged under new leadership and continue to offer useful information and great services for BAHEP’s members.
training offered through
BayTech (Bay Area Houston Advanced Technology Consortium) is currently working on a Wagner-Peyser Grant awarded through the Texas Governor’s Office. The purpose of the grant is to train unemployed high school graduates and others as certified composite technicians, certified structures technicians, or certified electrical technicians. The training is being delivered by the San Jacinto College EDGE Center for advanced manufacturing training located at the Houston Spaceport. As the Wagner-Peyser Grant ends its second year of funding, there were 36 participants enrolled in the program. Ten participants enrolled in the electrical technician tract, 16 enrolled in the structures technician tract, and 10 enrolled in the composite technician tract. To date, seven participants have been hired by local aerospace and aerospace adjacent companies. The companies include KULR Technologies, Jacobs, EmergentXIII, Collins Aerospace, Weatherford, and one student worked a summer internship at Oak Ridge National Laboratories.
BayTech Wagner-Peyser Grant Award Ceremony
BayTech was awarded a third year of funding to continue to offer this training 18
2023 Annual Report
SATOP Marketing Booth
BayTech Job Fair program to 35 eligible participants. The new funding year began on Sept. 1, 2023, and will run through Aug. 31, 2024.
SATOP expands to meet increased demand The Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program (SATOP) is designed to speed the transfer of the U.S. Space Program’s knowledge and technology to the private sector, to provide economic benefits to the community, and to raise public awareness of the Space Program. SATOP has assisted more than 1,100 small Texas businesses for FREE in solving technical challenges through a network composed of NASA Johnson Space
Center, aerospace companies and their engineers, and educational institutions, collectively designated as Alliance Partners. The 88th Texas Legislature increased funding for SATOP for the FY2024FY2025 biennium to expand the program to all regions in Texas with a focus on underserved areas such as the Rio Grande Valley. SATOP is expanding its economic development organization (EDO) network to reach more small business owners. Each EDO will promote the program to its small business community and qualify small businesses for this free technical assistance program. To meet the anticipated increase in small businesses,
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SATOP is working to expand its Alliance Partner network, especially adding aerospace companies which have the engineering skills to provide technical solutions to the small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs.
Region provides endless opportunities This 2023 Annual Report provides a small glimpse into BAHEP’s everyday work. The unlimited opportunities available in the region’s industry job clusters as well as the non-industry job clusters provide a rich environment where BAHEP and its many partners thrive in navigating change and driving growth.
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
2024 Executive Committee Todd Caliva serves as chief executive officer of HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake. He has nearly 30 years of experience, including a decade at the multi-facility level. He has been with HCA in Houston since 1997. In prior roles, Caliva served as chief executive officer of HCA-affiliated West Houston Medical Center and East Houston Regional Medical Center and chief operating officer of HCA-affiliated The Woman’s Hospital of Texas. His robust community involvement included co-chairing the Southeast Texas Regional Advisory Council (SETRAC) Cardiac Care Committee for nearly 10 years, an organization that is committed to improve the overall care for heart attack patients across the region. He currently serves as the president/chairman of the Educational Foundation of the Southeast Texas Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives as well as having served as Regent of the South Texas region from 2018-2020. Caliva earned both his undergraduate degree and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Houston. Nellie Chappell-White is president and CEO of JES Tech. She started her management career in aerospace serving as a program manager, making contributions to the NASA mission since 2000. In 2004, Nellie played a key role in creating JES Tech, and served as operations manager and chief operating officer since the company’s inception. In April 2018, Nellie succeeded Bobbie Jessie as president and CEO of JES Tech. During Nellie’s career as JES Tech’s chief operating officer, she supported over a dozen contracts at multiple NASA centers throughout the United States, leading teams that made significant contributions to NASA’s mission in functional areas, including the Human Health and Performance Directorate and the Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate. Nellie’s experience provides her with unmatched insight into JES Tech’s operations and a remarkable focus on performance to ensure that all technical, cost, schedule, and personnel management aspects of JES Tech’s support are accomplished with optimal professional performance. Emphasizing communication and relationship building with employees and customers, Nellie has demonstrated a natural ability to lead teams in achieving outstanding performance across diverse work groups of scientific, medical, research, engineering, technical, administrative, and logistics personnel. Mark M. Gittleman, P.E., is president and CEO of Aegis Aerospace, Inc. Aegis Aerospace (pronounced ējis) is a nation-wide, woman-owned, commercial space and lunar exploration company and an experienced, well-respected DoD and NASA contractor. Aegis Aerospace was formed in 2021 through the merger of MEI Technologies (MEIT) and Alpha Space Test & Research Alliance. He was the Alpha Space president & CEO before leading the merger with MEIT. Before joining Alpha Space, he was Executive Vice President for Intuitive Machines (IM), and prior to IM he was a long time executive with Oceaneering International, Inc. He started with Oceaneering as a hard hat construction diver in the Gulf of Mexico, then helped found Oceaneering Space Systems and led it for many years, then led its world-wide subsea controls business. Gittleman serves on several advisory boards, including the Subsea Valley Technology Cluster in Oslo, Norway; the University of Houston-Clear Lake College of Science and Engineering; and BAHEP. Gittleman holds a BS in Ocean Engineering, a BA in Political Science, and is a registered professional engineer in the State of Texas. 20
2023 Annual Report
2024 Executive Committee Dick Gregg, Jr., is president of Gregg & Gregg, P.C., a law firm which represents and advises clients in the areas of municipal, governmental, corporate, employment, real estate, and business litigation law. The firm acts as legal advisor or city attorney for multiple local governments. The firm’s attorneys also represent numerous homeowner associations, condominium associations, and town home associations. Gregg received a bachelor’s degree in government from the University of Texas at Austin where he also earned his law degree. Gregg’s areas of practice include public law, contracts, real estate law, business organizations, condominiums and cooperatives. Gwen Griffin is a 38-year veteran of the strategic communications industry. She is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Griffin Communications Group. Since launching the agency in 1997, she’s led the Griffin team in developing and executing strategic communications campaigns and programs for both consumer and trade audiences. As CEO, Gwen’s focus is on strategic planning and advocacy for the agency and its clients. A powerhouse with an undeniable reputation in the aerospace sector, major global brands and industry leaders have trusted their communications to Gwen and her team – including NASA, Blue Origin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Aerojet Rocketdyne, NASA-Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Coalition for Deep Space Exploration, Conrad Foundation, Aldrin Family Foundation, Association of Space Explorers, Million Air, Amazon Studios, Paramount Pictures, LEGO, Sprint, Bodycote, and CVR Energy. Gwen volunteers her time to support economic and workforce development and STEM education. Brenda Hellyer, Ed.D., serves as the fifth chancellor of San Jacinto College (SJC), the eighth largest community college in the state of Texas and recognized as a national Top-Ten College by the Aspen Institute’s Community College Excellence Program. She has served in a variety of roles at SJC including executive vice president for Resource Development, vice chancellor for Fiscal Affairs, and executive vice chancellor before assuming her role as chancellor in 2009. Prior to joining SJC, Dr. Hellyer worked in the corporate world in accounting and as a small business owner. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Fort Hays State University, an MBA and an Ed.D. in Community College Leadership from the University of Texas at Austin. Jorge Hernandez is founder and president of Bastion Technologies, Inc. After graduating from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, he was honored with the distinguished National Science Foundation Scholarship to attend Stanford University. At Stanford, he received his Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Bastion ranks today as a leading provider of engineering to NASA, DoD and major oil and gas providers with over 519 employees. Hernandez has been recognized as Houston Technology Center’s Lifetime Achievement Awardee in Aerospace. Today Bastion leads and supports major programs in Engineering, Safety and Mission Assurance and Technology from coast to coast. 21
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
2024 Executive Committee Laurie Labra is Vice President, Human Exploration Division, KBR. In this role she leads a portfolio of human spaceflight programs for NASA, ESA, and commercial spaceflight partners. She began her career as a JSC contractor in 1988 as an astronaut instructor and has served in numerous leadership roles including Program Manager for the Integrated Mission Operations Contract and the Mission Systems Operations Contract. A native of the Houston area, Labra holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Houston. She is passionate about leadership development and enjoys participating in STEM outreach activities in the community. John Mulholland is vice president and program manager, International Space Station (ISS), The Boeing Company. Prior to his present position, Mulholland was the vice president and program manager of Boeing's Commercial Crew Program, leading the development of the Crew Space Transportation (CST)-100 Starliner system, and the vice president and program manager for the Boeing Space Shuttle Program. From 1996 to 2002, he was the space shuttle deputy manager of operations and project engineer at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Mulholland is a graduate of New Mexico State University with a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering. Kelly Page, president of Barrios Technology, began her career with the company in 2006. She supported multiple organizations in the International Space Station (ISS) Program in technical, leadership, and management roles, being recognized with the prestigious Silver Snoopy award. Transitioning to a corporate role, she engaged primarily in Business Development, leading key captures for the company. She established Barrios’ commercial space endeavors through Stellar Access to stimulate demand for the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) economy. She became president in 2021 focusing on innovation, streamlining processes, infusing our values throughout the company, and Barrios’ space commercialization efforts. A native to the Clear Lake area, she continues to reside in the area with her husband and three boys and is actively involved in the community. Victor Pierson is chairman, president, and CEO of Moody Bank, vice chairman of Texas Independent BancsharesDallas, a former mayor of Jamaica Beach, Texas, a past chairman of the Texas Bankers Association, and a director of the Independent Bankers Association of Texas. He serves on the board of directors of Moody Bank, Moody Bank Holding Company, Moody Bancshares, Inc., and Gal-Tex Hotel Corporation. He is chairman of The Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees-Port of Galveston. Pierson is a past chairman of the United Way of Galveston, a past chairman of the Galveston Chamber of Commerce, a past chairman of the Galveston Economic Development Partnership, and chairman of the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking Foundation at Southern Methodist University. He is also chairman of the University of Texas Medical Branch President’s Cabinet and a member of the Texas A&M University at Galveston Board of Visitors. Pierson previously taught accounting at Galveston College for over 16 years. 22
2023 Annual Report
2024 Executive Committee Kirk Shireman currently serves as the Vice President for the Lockheed Martin Lunar Exploration Campaigns (LEC), a position he has held since joining Lockheed Martin in July 2020. LEC is responsible for the development of the Transporter Element of the Human Lunar System’s National Team, nuclear thermal propulsion, and other space nuclear systems, as well as Space Habitats and Lunar Mobility systems. The LEC is also responsible for the development of future systems and vehicles to support Human Space Exploration on the lunar surface, in lunar orbit, and beyond. Prior to joining Lockheed Martin, he served as NASA’s International Space Station (ISS) Program Manager. He was responsible for the overall management, development, integration and operation of the ISS. Shireman was responsible for policy development, international partner negotiations, and the overall safety and health of the crew and on-orbit vehicle. He has received numerous honors and awards throughout his career, including the National Space Club Astronautics Engineer Award in 2019. He has also been recognized with NASA’s Outstanding Leadership Medal, NASA’s Exceptional Achievement Medal for successful integration of the ISS’s Russian elements, a Silver Snoopy Award in 1990, and the Presidential Rank Award twice 2010 and 2017. In 2013, Shireman received the Eagle Manned Mission Award for his outstanding leadership of the ISS from the National Space Club at its 56th Annual Robert H. Goddard Memorial Dinner in Washington, D.C. S. John Wilkins, III, has been a member of the BAHEP / CLAEDF team since 1991 representing Loral and Lockheed Martin. He is a former vice president of both companies. Wilkins retired from Lockheed Martin and is presently the CEO of CLC Properties. He is a cum laude graduate of Ohio University with a B.S. in math/computer science and an MBA. Wilkin's wife, Shari, is an attorney and a graduate of the University of Houston Law Center. They have been married for 32 years and have two grown children. Wilkins has served on numerous boards in the community and attends Clear Creek Community Church.
2024 Executive Committee Ex Officio Members Jennifer Bowers, Partner, Bowers & Sadler, LLP Gale E. Burkett, President / CEO, GB Tech, Inc. Fred Griffin, Chairman / Founder, Griffin Partners Marc Havican, President, Space City Films, Inc. Joy H. Kelly, Ph.D., Vice President / General Manager, Jacobs Kenny Koncaba, Senior Vice President / Corporate Banker, Frost Bank 23
Tim C. Kropp, Executive Vice President, MRI Technologies Bernard A. Milstein, M.D., President, The Eye Clinic of Texas Denise S. Navarro, Founder / President / CEO, Logical Innovations, Inc. Charlie Stegemoeller, Director, Strategic Solutions, Leidos Space Exploration and Mission Operations Vanessa E. Wyche, Director, NASA Johnson Space Center
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Membership Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership owes much of its success to the active participation of its members. Following is a current list of BAHEP members. New members in 2023 are shown in blue boldface with an *. Acadian Ambulance Service ACU of Texas ADACEN Advanced Dermatology and Skin Care AECOM Aegis Aerospace, Inc. The Aerospace Corporation AeroSys, LLC AEXA Aerospace, LLC Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc. *Alert Tech All Points Logistics, LLC Alvin Community College Amazon Web Services American Acryl American Heart Association AMOCO Federal Credit Union Archer Group ARES Aerospace and Technology Services *Arrow Science and Technology, LLC *Aspell Services, Inc. ASRC Federal AssuredPartners Aulds Media Holdings/i45NOW AVERA Companies Axiom Space, Inc. Ayrshire Corporation b1 Bank Bay Area Coastal Protection Alliance Bay Area Commercial Real Estate Network (BACREN) Barlow Jones, L.L.P. Barrios Technology Bastion Technologies, Inc. Bay Area Council on Drugs & Alcohol Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre Bay Area Houston Magazine Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership (BAYTRAN) Bay Area Turning Point, Inc. Bay Oaks Country Club
Baybrook Mall - Brookfield Properties *Baylor College of Medicine Center for Space Medicine Bay Area Houston Advanced Technology Consortium (BayTech) Beacon Federal Credit Union BMWC Constructors BMW-MINI OF CLEAR LAKE The Boeing Company Booz Allen Hamilton Bowers & Sadler, LLP The Bridge Over Troubled Waters, Inc. Burns & McDonnell Cadence Bank Capital Bank - Pasadena Clear Creek Independent School District CDS Community Development Strategies CenterPoint Energy Chemical Educational Foundation Chemical Process and Production, Inc. CHI St. Luke’s Health Patients Medical Center Cimarron City of Clear Lake Shores City of Dickinson City of El Lago City of Friendswood City of Hitchcock City of Houston City of Houston, Houston Airport System City of Kemah *City of La Marque City of La Porte City of League City City of Morgan’s Point City of Nassau Bay City of Pasadena City of Santa Fe City of Seabrook City of Taylor Lake Village *City of Texas City City of Webster CLC Properties Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce College of the Mainland Collins Aerospace Comcast Business Communities In Schools - Bay Area, Inc. *Community Health Network (MyCHN) Community Impact Newspaper Courtyard By Marriott Houston NASA/Nassau Bay Coventry Development Corporation - Houston
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Craig Technologies Criss Cross Commercial Group Crowder Funeral Homes *Crown Castle Chris Curran - Wells Fargo Advisors Cyber One Solutions, LLC CYFOR Technologies, LLC Cypress Bay Subdivision/Marina Bay Village *Dave & Buster’s / Main Event DB Consulting Group Del Papa Distributing Company Deloitte Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Dickinson Independent School District Draper Laboratory DRDA, PLLC Economic Alliance Houston Port Region EduSafe Systems, Inc. Elevate Hospital Group Elizabeth Smith Life and Health *Environmental Science and Engineering (ESE) Partners Express Employment Professionals The Eye Clinic of Texas Fast Signs - Clear Lake Felicis Properties, Inc. *Fogo de Chao Friendswood, LLC Friendswood Chamber of Commerce Friendswood Independent School District Frost Bank Galveston Bay Foundation Galveston County Galveston County Daily News Galveston County Small Business Development Center Galveston Economic Development Partnership *Galveston Independent School District Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce GB Tech, Inc. GEO Consultants Corporation GeoControl Systems, Inc. *Global Business Management Consultants Greater Houston Partnership *Green Appraisal, LLC Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP Gregg & Gregg, P.C. Griffin Communications Group Griffin Partners, Inc. Group 1 Automotive, Inc. Gulf Coast Authority Gulf Coast Educators FCU
2023 Annual Report Gulf Coast Limestone, Inc. Ham, Langston & Brezina, LLP Harris County Haute Flowers & Events HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake HCA Houston Healthcare Southeast Health and Safety Council HIGHER Up Texas Highpoint Insurance Group, LLC Hilton Houston NASA Clear Lake Hitchcock Chamber of Commerce Hitchcock Independent School District Home Bank HomeTown Bank, N. A. Houston Association of Realtors Houston Construction Services Houston First Corporation Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital Houston Precision Fasteners IMA Financial Group ImageNet Consulting Implemetrics, Inc. *International Plant Services, LLC Intuitive Machines, LLC J&P Technologies J. A. Billipp Company Jacobs JES Tech JLL JMK5 Holdings, LLC Joiner Architects, Inc. Kaneka North America LLC KBR Keller Williams Realty Clear Lake Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Kemah Boardwalk Kevton Industries, LLC / Kevton Technologies *Kindred Hospital Clear Lake King’s BierHaus / EggHaus Gourmet Kuraray America, Inc. La Porte - Bayshore Chamber of Commerce La Porte Independent School District Lakewood Yacht Club League City Regional Chamber of Commerce Leidos Lewis Jewelers Lexus of Clear Lake Lighthouse Video Surveillance Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company Lockridge Packaging, LLC Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, Inc.
Logical Innovations, Inc. Lone Star Flight Museum Mackinnon and Partners *Manhattan Construction Company MDT Financial Advisors, LLC Meador Staffing Services, Inc. Media Riders, Inc. Medistar Corporation Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital Mercedes-Benz of Clear Lake Merrill Lynch *MI-GSO|PCUBED–Houston (Program Planning Professionals) Monica Millican Minuteman Press - Bay Area Moody Bank *MORI Associates, Inc. MRI Technologies MRM Proposal Solutions My FlooringAMERICA NanoRacks, LLC NASA Alumni League - JSC Chapter NASA Johnson Space Center *Navarro Insurance Group *New Horizon Strategies, LLC Norman Frede Chevrolet Northrop Grumman Corporation *Novium LTD Oceaneering Space Systems, Inc. One Stop Tents & Events PAE Pasadena Economic Development Corporation Pasadena Independent School District Pasadena Texas Chamber of Commerce *Paterson Consulting Partners LLC/PCP Digital Payne’s Plants PBK Pearland Economic Development Corporation Peraton Perry’s Restaurant Group Port Houston Powers Brown Architecture The Ray Tax Group Rothe Development, Inc. Royal Harbor Partners, LLC Rutledge Commercial Real Estate S&K Global Solutions Sage Commercial Group, LLC San Jacinto College District Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce Santa Fe Independent School District
IBC
Savills, Inc. Schaumburg & Polk, Inc. Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) Shriners Children’s Texas Sierra Space *Sophic Synergistics South Belt-Ellington Leader South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center Southwest Airlines Company *SOX Erosion Solutions Space Center Houston Space City Films, Inc. SSCI Environmental & Consulting Services Star Service, Inc. TABI, LLC Summit Management Group *Tannos Development Group, LLC TechTrans International (TTI) Teledyne Brown Engineering Terracon Consultants, Inc. Texas A&M University at Galveston Texas Chiropractic College Texas City Independent School District Tommy’s Restaurant Oyster Bar TXU Energy UHCL Center-Economic Development & Research Unbound Now Houston United Airlines *United Commercial Energy Partners United Equities, Inc. (Clear Lake Center LP) Universities Space Research Association-USRA University of Houston-Clear Lake The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTMB Health *V2X *Venus Aerospace Waters Edge Venue Welcome Group, LLC Wellby Financial *Wells Fargo Private Bank Wile Interests Wendell Wilson & Dr. Pat Potter Wilson Wings Over Houston Air Show *Wycoff Development & Construction, LLC YMCA of Greater Houston Zann Commercial Brokerage, Inc.
The region includes BAHEP members Clear Lake Shores Dickinson El Lago Friendswood Hitchcock Houston Kemah La Marque La Porte League City Morgan’s Point Nassau Bay Pasadena Santa Fe Seabrook Taylor Lake Village Texas City Webster Galveston County Harris County Houston Airport System and Port Houston
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership 1150 Gemini Street, Suite 1050 Houston, Texas 77058 832.536.3255 www.bayareahouston.com Facebook: BayAreaHoustonEcon Twitter: @BAHEP
Region supported by Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership