How Agile Space Industries is Thriving by Looking Beyond Industry Labels
A message from Agile Space’s Director of Manufacturing, Ben Turner.
Ben Turner, Director of Manufacturing
Manufacturing doesn’t require rocket science, but rocket science requires manufacturing.
With this understanding, Agile Space Industries in Durango has drawn talent from multiple industries to create a uniquely collaborative environment that has made it one of the space industry’s emerging stars. They are leading the industry not just in technological advancements, but also in its approach to building a workforce, and drawing people who might not have considered a career in the space industry. Their success is a testament to the benefits of a workplace with a diversity of thought.
Agile Space Industries is a leading innovator in in-space chemical propulsion, and is building thrusters for spacecraft using a unique additive manufacturing process. But it is not just recruiting aerospace engineers and propulsion engineers; they're pulling talent from all corners—from auto manufacturing to the oil and gas fields. This unconventional approach has proven to be a game-changer, fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity that transcends traditional boundaries. By tapping into a diverse pool of skills and perspectives, We have cultivated a dynamic workforce capable of tackling complex challenges with ingenuity and resilience.
Many have never considered a career in the space industry, but the skills needed are similar to many other industries. Concepts from one field can be applied to solve problems in another. For instance, a manufacturing engineer with experience in automotive production might bring insights into efficient assembly processes that can be adapted to spacecraft manufacturing, leading to streamlined operations and cost savings. Manufacturing is manufacturing. Whether building toasters or rockets, it’s the same process, and the ideas are the same. Manage your inventory, manage your work, manage your deliveries. This cross-pollination across industries should be a model for more aerospace companies in Colorado.
This culture of experimentation has resulted in success that might have eluded a more conventional workforce constrained by industry norms and practices.
As a relatively small organization, Agile has secured major government and commercial contracts, including receiving a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II contract from SpaceWERX, the innovation arm of the U.S. Space Force and a part of AFWERX, and the Air Force Research Laboratory. With more than 300 companies vying for $34 million in investment awards, Agile was one of 19 companies selected as winners of the 2023 SpaceWERX Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) Challenge, sponsored by the Space Safari program office at USSF Space Systems Command, which identifies cutting-edge TacRS concepts that enable the Space Force to respond to the most pressing challenges and emerging on-orbit threats by 2026.
Agile Space Industries' location in Durango also facilitates innovation by drawing talent from outside more traditional aerospace and other economic hubs. Durango offers an unmatched quality of life and a strong sense of community. Durango's natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities attract top talent looking for a better work-life balance—a crucial factor in employee satisfaction and retention.
Agile continues to grow, and will continue to look at candidates for what they can offer - not just by what industry they are coming from or even what their past professional experience is. Motivated individuals who have hobbies or interests that have taught them skills and ingenuity are what will keep Agile ahead of its competitors, and will be a welcome addition to Colorado’s thriving space industry.
