EL PASO, Texas (March 5, 2026) – The University of Texas at El Paso has appointed Michael Martinez, a seasoned public-sector executive and UTEP alumnus, as assistant vice president for regional innovation and partnerships, effective Jan. 5, 2026.
The University of Texas at El Paso has appointed Michael Martinez, a seasoned public-sector executive and UTEP alumnus, as assistant vice president for regional innovation and partnerships. In this role, Martinez will lead efforts to partner with state and local governments on research relevant to the region that can be done in partnership with UTEP faculty.
In this role, Martinez will lead efforts to partner with state and local governments on research relevant to the region that can be done in partnership with UTEP faculty.
“Michael understands the needs of local government and will help us build partnerships for externally funded research that can help the region,” UTEP President Heather Wilson said. “We want to do things together that UTEP can’t do alone and this position will help us do that.”
Martinez brings more than 15 years of leadership experience across municipal and county government in El Paso County and New Mexico. Most recently, he served as deputy city manager for the Village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, where he oversaw operations spanning economic development, housing, planning and zoning, transportation and strategic partnerships. His previous roles include city manager for the City of Sunland Park, New Mexico, and several progressively responsible leadership positions with El Paso County.
As assistant vice president, Martinez will also play a central role in expanding UTEP’s external research partnerships, increasing funding aligned with regional and state priorities.
City of El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson welcomed the appointment, citing its importance for the city’s long-term growth.
“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 said Martinez’s experience reflects a strong understanding of local government operations and the value of collaborative approaches in achieving meaningful results.
“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 earned his MBA in Business Administration and BA in Political Science from UTEP, along with 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.”
For more information about UTEP Research & Innovation, visit utep.edu/research.
Last Updated on March 05, 2026 at 12:00 AM | Originally published March 05, 2026
By MC Staff
UTEP Marketing and Communications