In the past month, I had the opportunity to represent The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) – UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center and the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center at UTRGV on various stages, both nationally and internationally.
Each destination not only expanded my professional capabilities but also deepened my connection with UTRGV's mission: to bring transformative education to the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.
Woodforest Foundry Training
In Houston, TX, the training was enriching, acquiring new tools to assist startups. Special thanks to Nisha Floyd, Jesus Cisneros, and their dedicated team for organizing such an event.
Coffee with the United States and Canada & North American Week
In Monterrey, Mexico the "Coffee with the United States and Canada" event was a great experience, emphasizing the importance of trade relations between our nations. Special thanks to Eugenio José Reyes Guzmán for the invitation. Additionally, the "North American Week" an event by the American Chamber of Commerce of Mexico was a valuable source of knowledge of Nuevo Leon's growth. Thanks to Rodrigo Reyes Gutierrez for his invitation.
International Agri-Food Forum - Aguascalientes 2023
In Aguascalientes, Mexico, representing the Rio Grande Valley Region and UTRGV at the forum was an honor. Liborio Alberto Flores Mendoza and Francisco Gamboa Rincon, thank you for the incredible opportunity. The event was impactful, especially witnessing the warm hospitality of the region, observing the creativity and innovation of local entrepreneurs, and having an unforgettable lunch with the Governor of the State of Aguascalientes at her residence.
Annual International Economic Development Council Conference
In Dallas, TX, this event by the #IEDC was more than just workshops and presentations. It was a space to reaffirm and emphasize the crucial role of Economic Development Support Organizations, like UTRGV, in shaping our regional future well-being.
7th Annual eBuilders Forum
In Bethlehem, PA, the forum organized by the InBIA, International Business Innovation Association, provided a unique opportunity to learn from the regional ecosystem and understand how they support their entrepreneurs towards success. Charles Ross, Lindsay Schuenke, and Anthony Durante for hosting the event, it was a success.
These trips reinforce my commitment to continue building a robust ecosystem for #SoftLanding projects and local businesses with global aspirations.
Special recognition to my team of dedicated coworkers (Maria Julia Villalon, Perla Garcia, Bertha Lance) and the hardworking students (Armando Villarreal, Idania Crespo, Gabriela Resendez, Amy De la Hoz) whose collective efforts and enthusiasm significantly contribute to our ongoing success and impact in the community.
I am grateful to UTRGV, and especially to my leadership Linda Ufland Romo, David Ortiz, Ron Garza, and Veronica Gonzales for their support and leadership that continually inspire and guide.
Editor’s Note: The above guest column was penned by Julio I. Quiroga Cano, a manufacturing specialist with the UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center and the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center. The commentary first appeared on Quiroga Cano’s LinkedIn page. The author can be reached by email via: julio.quiroga01@utrgv.edu
