Ep051: Exploring Innovation and Aerospace with Jim Perschbach

Jim Perschbach, President and CEO of Port San Antonio, joins the podcast to share his insights on leading an organization that has transformed an old Air Force Base into an innovative aerospace and national defense park. Jim discusses the challenges of working remotely and the importance of providing flexibility to maintain a collaborative and productive work environment.Dive into the fascinating world of Port San Antonio and discover the innovative solutions transforming the aerospace and national defense industries.SHOW HIGHLIGHTSPort San Antonio operates as a research park, aerospace national defense park, and innovation hub with 18,000 people working on the campus.Formerly an Air Force Base, the port now serves as a public asset that must generate revenue without receiving direct government support.Jim Perschbach, President and CEO of Port San Antonio, believes the key to making great hires is finding people focused on value and long-term relationships.The organization has a low turnover rate, which Jim attributes to his focus on collaboration, communication, and being open to new ideas and suggestions.Port San Antonio is working on groundbreaking projects, including a 72-foot tall robot with a 20 kilowatt laser for removing paint from airplanes and a LiDAR system on the back of a robot for measuring buildings.Collaboration between different industries and organizations is crucial for developing innovative solutions and prototypes.Sam Jimenez, a space architect working with NASA and private sector companies, is developing systems for manufacturing on the moon by melting lunar regolith and turning it into filament for 3D printing.The Wex Foundation, run by Sam Jimenez, brings in 8th to 12th-grade students to work with him and NASA scientists on space-related projects.The Boeing Center at Techport, an entertainment arena on the campus, supports educational opportunities through the Kelly Heritage Foundation.Port San Antonio focuses on innovation that makes core industries like aviation, national defense, and critical infrastructure better and more efficient.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerGUESTS |  Jim Perschbach About JimTRANSCRIPTChris Hanslik In this episode, you will meet Jim Pershbach, President and CEO of Port San Antonio. Jim shares his views on why he believes the key to making great hires is to find people who are focused on value and long-term relationships. Okay, Jim, I want to thank you for being a guest on Building Texas Business. I want to welcome you to the show. Let's start by just telling the listeners what it is you do and where you do it. Jim PershcbachSure Well, thank you so much for havi