aerospace technology firm to build out new location in arizona

A company internationally known for its rocket and robotics manufacturing has announced plans to launch a new headquarters and production facility in Mesa, Arizona.

AQST Space Systems was founded last year in San Juan, Puerto Rico, but subsequently decided to look for a new place to do business after last fall’s Hurricane Maria destroyed much of the island’s infrastructure.

“The original plan for my partners and I was to make a reality of this project in Puerto Rico,” Arnaldo Soto, chief executive officer of AQST, remarked during a press conference in Mesa.

“That plan was shattered by Hurricane Maria, which negatively impacted the island’s economy, and devastated its infrastructure and growth prospects,” Soto continued.

The company eventually spoke to economic development officials in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, New Mexico, and Texas, before going with Arizona because of what Soto called the state’s “can-do attitude.”

Depending upon the number of people the company eventually hires, it could be eligible for up to $1 million in State of Arizona tax credits.

The company plans to initially set up its offices at the Falcon Field Airport, before acquiring space for its manufacturing facility. That facility may be built in an existing structure or will require the construction of an entirely new building.

AQST Space Systems’ business model calls for servicing a wide variety of industries ranging from telecommunications to aerospace and high-tech regulated manufacturing. 

The company’s plans for its new Mesa location include manufacturing and assembling small rockets that will be used for sending satellites into space.

By Garry Boulard