Michael Martinez has been named assistant vice president for regional innovation and partnerships at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), effective January 5, 2026. In this new position, Martinez will focus on building partnerships with state and local governments to advance research that addresses regional needs in collaboration with UTEP faculty.
UTEP President Heather Wilson commented on the appointment, stating, “Michael understands the needs of local government and will help us build partnerships for externally funded research that can help the region. We want to do things together that UTEP can’t do alone and this position will help us do that.”
Martinez has more than 15 years of experience in municipal and county government roles in both El Paso County and New Mexico. He most recently served as deputy city manager for the Village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, where he managed operations related to economic development, housing, planning and zoning, transportation, and strategic partnerships. Previously, he was city manager for Sunland Park, New Mexico, and held several leadership positions with El Paso County.
In his new role at UTEP, Martinez is expected to expand external research partnerships and secure additional funding aligned with both regional and state priorities.
El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson welcomed the appointment. “UTEP is one of El Paso’s greatest assets, and this position strengthens the bridge between the University and our community,” Johnson said. “Michael understands our region and knows how to bring people together to create economic opportunity and shared success.”
El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego highlighted Martinez’s collaborative approach: “Michael has a proven record of working across agencies and jurisdictions to deliver results,” Samaniego said. “His leadership at UTEP will help align research, innovation, and public priorities in ways that benefit residents throughout El Paso County and the broader Borderplex region.”
Martinez holds an MBA in Business Administration and a BA in Political Science from UTEP as well as an MPA in Local Government from the University of North Texas.
“UTEP sits at the center of a dynamic, binational region with enormous potential for innovation and impact,” Martinez said. “I am honored to return to my alma mater and work alongside faculty, community leaders and regional partners to strengthen collaboration, attract resources and advance solutions that improve quality of life for our people.”
More information about UTEP Research & Innovation can be found at utep.edu/research.
