Innovation and Collaboration in Houston

Mar 13, 2025

Lecture Notes: Innovation and Cross-Industry Collaboration in Houston

Introduction

  • Panelists: Trevor Best, Robin Cardwell, and Stephanie Murphy.
  • Main Topic: "Pumps and Pipes" - Houston's oldest innovation program focusing on aerospace, energy, and medicine.
  • Purpose: Discuss cross-industry collaboration and its impact on innovation.

Thematic Questions for Panelists

  1. Examples of cross-industry collaboration leading to significant innovations.
  2. Strategies to facilitate continued cross-industry innovation.
  3. Talent development for fostering innovation.

Key Points Discussed

Cross-Industry Collaboration Examples

  • Trevor Best (CIS Plasmonics):
    • Developed a chemical reactor using renewable electricity.
    • Collaboration with Rice University, NASA, and leveraging medical tech (Nanos Spectra).
    • Emphasized unique opportunities in Houston for cross-sector innovation.
  • Stephanie Murphy (Egis Aerospace):
    • Focus on space sector and commercial space testing.
    • Discussed SATOP, a program that connects space companies with Texas businesses for engineering solutions.
    • Highlighted a project with UTMB doctors on protein libraries leading to a new business venture.
  • Robin Cardwell (Omnis Science):
    • Focus on life sciences, biomarker discovery, and digital health technology.
    • Experience with startups in the Bay Area and Austin, leading to collaboration opportunities in Houston.

Houston as a Unique Hub

  • Benefits of Houston:
    • Access to diverse talent pools.
    • Lower business costs compared to other ecosystems.
    • Strong support for startups from local institutions like Rice University.

Strategies for Promoting Cross-Industry Collaboration

  • Stephanie Murphy:
    • Partnering with Greater Houston Partnership (GHP) to unify messaging across industries.
    • Developing new space initiatives and commercial service providers at the ISS.
  • Panel Insights:
    • Importance of government support and clear communication of city goals.
    • Leveraging educational institutions and community colleges for talent pipeline (e.g., San Jacinto Community College).

Talent and Workforce Development

  • Trevor Best:
    • Emphasized the importance of mission-driven companies to attract talent.
    • Diversity as a strength of Houston, fostering innovation through varied perspectives.
  • Panel Insights:
    • Encouraged cross-industry skill application (e.g., engineers from oil and gas to space).
    • Highlighted the need for both technical and customer service skills in workforce development.

Challenges and Opportunities

  • Houston lacks a "big win" company that has IPO'd and become a major market player.
  • Potential areas of growth include commercial space ventures and data-driven healthcare innovations.

Audience Q&A

  • Connecting with Houston's Ecosystem:
    • Recommendations for networking and engaging with local organizations for startups outside Houston.
    • Suggested resources: Innovation Map, GHP newsletters, and local startup hubs like the ion and Greentown Labs.

Conclusion

  • Houston is positioned for continued growth in innovation, leveraging its diverse population and strong industry presence.
  • Emphasis on collaboration, strategic partnerships, and talent development to drive future successes.

Full transcript