Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
The Automotive Cluster of Aguascalientes (GIRAA) conducted its first official trade mission to Rio South Texas Region on January 20–21, 2026, strengthening cross-border collaboration in automotive, aerospace, logistics, and manufacturing. The visit, coordinated with the COSTEP, Council for South Texas Economic Progress, included meetings in Brownsville and McAllen with economic development organizations, port officials, and industry leaders.
The delegation was led by Dr. Mónica Genoveva Mendoza Jáquez, president of GIRAA, who described the visit as part of a long-term effort to build international partnerships while strengthening local industry.
“This is our first trade mission,” Dr. Mendoza said. “We came to understand the landscape and build relationships, because we have many things in common.”
The group included representatives from founding member companies, including Mechanical 4.0, SIGUM Herramientas, Solinda Tools and Devices, and SpacePort MX. The visit focused on investment opportunities, infrastructure, and collaboration in manufacturing, logistics, and workforce development.
GIRAA—Grupos Industriales del Ramo Automotriz de Aguascalientes—was established 13 years ago to improve competitiveness and coordination among automotive suppliers. Mendoza said the cluster helped introduce the dual education model in Aguascalientes, combining classroom instruction with hands-on industry training. What began with a small group of students is now implemented across universities statewide.
During the visit, the delegation toured the Port of Brownsville and met with regional development organizations to learn more about logistics, industrial operations, and trade opportunities. A memorandum of understanding was signed in McAllen, along with discussions on foreign trade zones and regional industry trends.
Dr. Mendoza emphasized that GIRAA functions as a specialized cluster rather than a traditional business association. “We work directly with companies that supply automakers and Tier suppliers,” she said. “We are focused and highly specialized.”
She added that the cluster works closely with the government of Aguascalientes, including state economic development agencies, to attract investment and support companies establishing operations in the region.
The visit also highlighted how global supply chains are evolving. Mendoza noted that recent disruptions have accelerated the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, highlighting the importance of adaptability and local capabilities.
Workforce development remains a top priority for GIRAA. Mendoza stressed the importance of preparing young professionals in engineering, automation, and emerging technologies, as well as strengthening ties between industry and academic institutions.
She said the results of the Texas visit will be shared with educational leaders and technical institutions in Mexico to better align training with industry needs.
In closing, Mendoza emphasized the value of long-term cooperation between Mexico and the United States, which, thanks to COSTEP, and Adam Gonzalez, chief executive officer.
“Opportunities don’t come to you—you have to go find them,” she said. “This is about building bridges and creating lasting partnerships on both sides of the border.”
