Marco Kuljacha, Navigator-in-Chief
Rogelio Soto, The Global Integrator
Emilio Cadena, The Nearshoring Expert
Alejandro Mendoza, The Location Strategist
Table Of Contents
03 Editorial Note
Robin Conklen shares a personal reflection on teamwork, transformation, and why Mexico is ready to lead in aerospace
to Trademark: The Story Behind The MexicoJourney®
How a single phrase sparked a movement and became a registered trademark Discover the story behind Prodensa’s most defining framework
The Mexico Journey®: 5-StepMethodology
Explore our proven, step-by-step model guiding over 1,000 manufacturers through expansion in Mexico Simple, structured, and scalable
A closer look at Prodensa’s executive leaders strategic minds driving success across site selection, HR, compliance, and real estate
A case study of one aerospace company’s rapid launch in Mexico and how The Mexico Journey® made it possible in under 12 months
Mexico’s Aerospace MomentumIs Just Getting Started
Opinion piece by Marco Kuljacha on why Mexico isn’t just a rising star in aerospace it’s becoming an essential link in global supply chains
Curated blogs and expert resources handpicked for decision-makers in aerospace, trade, and manufacturing expansion in Mexico
Editorial Note
WELCOMETO
THEMEXICO JOURNEY MAGAZINE
There’s something special about watching things come together
At Prodensa, we work hard every single day And while each project brings new challenges, what never fails to inspire me is how our teams show up: with commitment, creativity, and collaboration. No matter the obstacle, we find a way forward together
Over the past 12 years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the rise of entire industries in Mexico From automotive to medical devices to electronics, I’ve seen firsthand how Prodensa has played a key role in helping companies break ground and thrive in this region. We've been part of those “booms” not just watching from the sidelines, but building the road beneath them
And I believe aerospace will be no exception.
With the global aerospace market in Mexico projected to exceed $22 billion by 2029, we are at the edge of another exciting shift Companies are looking for more than location they're looking for capability, confidence, and long-term partnership That’s where we come in
The Mexico Journey® is more than a service it’s our way of turning complex expansion into something possible, sustainable, and strategic For any company ready to land and scale in Mexico, I truly believe it’s the key to unlocking success
Thanks for joining us on this journey
RobinConklen
Managing Director USA, Prodensa
From Idea to Trademark: The Story Behind The Mexico Journey®
What began as a simple phrase in a team meeting is now a registered trademark The Mexico Journey® is more than just a methodology it’s the heart of how Prodensa helps global manufacturers enter, grow, and succeed in Mexico And now, this proven approach has been officially recognized
What Is The Mexico Journey®?
The Mexico Journey® is Prodensa’s proven framework for helping global manufacturers launch operations in Mexico Built on four decades of experience, it combines strategic guidance, execution, and real-time support tailored to each client’s needs In sectors like aerospace where precision and cross-border alignment are essential it helps companies move with clarity and confidence through complex supply chains and into scalable success. It’s not just a roadmap. It’s momentum in the right direction
The Spark of an Idea
The name came to life in a brainstorming session During a strategy meeting with the business development team, CEO Emilio Cadena frequently repeated a theme: “Let’s improve our clients’ Mexico journey. ” He was referring to more than operations he was talking about the experience, the care, and the clarity our clients deserve.
Managing Director of our U S office, Robin Conklen, recognized the power of those words It captured our tailor-made service model, our collaborative mindset, and our commitment to walk with clients every step of the way It became clear: this wasn’t just a catchphrase. It was the brand.
Why Clients Choose It and Us
Companies expanding to Mexico face a web of variables labor laws, tax incentives, logistics, site selection, cultural nuances The Mexico Journey® simplifies the complex and makes it actionable
For aerospace and advanced manufacturing leaders, the framework offers clarity and speed Our teams act as an extension of your own, guiding you through every stage from vision to execution with the confidence that comes from experience
This model doesn’t just benefit the companies we serve it fuels entire supply chain ecosystems across North America, creating jobs, enabling innovation, and building resilience.
Moving Forward
Trademarking The Mexico Journey® is more than a legal step It’s a milestone that reaffirms our commitment to the industries we serve and the people we partner with Thousands of companies have taken the journey with us and now, that journey has a name
Whether you're building your next aerospace facility or planning a long-term regional strategy, we’re ready to walk the road with you
Discover what’s possible with The Mexico Journey®.
The Mexico Journey®
The 5-Step Framework to Expand in Mexico
Trusted by 1,000+ manufacturers to launch with confidence
1 Understand the Environment
Explore Mexico’s business, legal, and labor landscape Identify key risks and regional advantages
3 Select your Location
Compare sites by cost, talent, and logistics Choose the best fit for growth
2 Define & Validate your Strategy
Align on goals, budget and timing Validate with data and local insights
4 Set up & Launch your Operation
Incorporate, hire and equip your site. Ensure compliance and operational readiness
5 Maximize Operations & Thrive
Streamline processes and boost efficiency. Adapt with ongoing support
Meet the Experts Shaping North America’s Manufacturing Future
Emilio Cadena - CEO The Nearshoring Expert
As a recognized authority in cross-border manufacturing, Emilio Cadena is a driving force behind the nearshoring movement in North America As CEO of Prodensa and Chairman of the U S -Mexico Foundation, he has advised over 1,000 companies through The Mexico Journey® a strategic model he helped shape
Emilio bridges the worlds of business, policy, and innovation. His leadership in public-private dialogue and deep understanding of the USMCA make him one of the region’s most sought-after voices on scalable, peoplecentered, and resilient operations He’s not just watching the nearshoring wave he’s helping lead it.
linkedin com/in/emilio-cadena-nearshoring-expert/
The Navigator-in-Chief
Marco Kuljacha leads with clarity and purpose As President of Prodensa’s Startup & Consulting Division, he helps companies make confident, informed decisions as they establish operations in Mexico Known for his high-level perspective and expertise in compliance and institutional relations, Marco is the steady hand companies trust when the path is complex
With hundreds of projects behind him, he is a reliable voice in strategic planning for manufacturing, logistics, and industrial services His insights are a compass for foreign investors seeking direction in Mexico’s evolving business landscape
linkedin com/in/marco-kuljacha-the-nearshoring-navigator
Rogelio Soto - President, HR Services, Energy & Manufacturing Division
The Global Integrator
Rogelio Soto brings people and strategy together As President of Prodensa’s HR Services Division, he helps companies scale with agility by aligning workforce design with global expansion goals
His deep knowledge of talent dynamics, international strategy, and operational execution enables companies to grow sustainably while adapting to Mexico’s regional strengths Rogelio ensures that workforce planning becomes a lever for innovation and competitiveness not just a checklist He is the connector between local talent and global ambition.
Alejandro Mendoza - President, Real Estate Division
The Location Strategist
Industrial success starts with the right location Alejandro Mendoza, President of Prodensa’s Real Estate Division, transforms site selection into a competitive advantage With decades of experience in manufacturing operations and real estate strategy, he sees beyond the map
For Alejandro, selecting the right site means aligning infrastructure, workforce, logistics, and long-term growth His business-first approach turns real estate decisions into strategic milestones laying the foundation for scalable and future-ready operations.
com/in/rogeliosoto/ DID YOU K N O W
Did you know Prodensa helps companies build service teams in Mexico without opening a legal entity?
Through innovative solutions like Mindfacturing®, a binational Employer of Record with service export incentives, Prodensa enables global firms to leverage Mexico for more than manufacturing legally, efficiently, and without the red tape
“We Needed To Move Fast. Prodensa Helped Us Move Smart. ”
1.iThe Challenge
When a North American aerospace supplier decided to expand operations into Mexico, they faced a critical window: a new contract had just been signed, timelines were tight, and the client required local manufacturing capabilities in under 12 months
They had zero presence in Mexico, limited knowledge of labor and regulatory frameworks, and a long list of unknowns
But what they did have was a clear objective: set up operations, fast and get it right the first time
2. The Roadblock
Initial planning revealed deeper challenges: Complex compliance requirements tied to dual-use aerospace components
Difficulties identifying a location with both security and skilled labor
A lack of internal resources to manage cross-border legal, tax, and HR setups
The pressure was building. Any delay could risk millions in penalties and damage their reputation with a top-tier client They needed a partner who could help them move quickly without cutting corners
3. The Mexico Journey®
That’s when Prodensa stepped in with The Mexico Journey® With our turnkey approach, we helped them:
Design a complete site selection strategy tailored to aerospace standards
Navigate regulatory permits, IMMEX certification, and trade compliance
Hire and onboard key local staff in record time
Launch operations within 9 months on budget and ahead of schedule
More than execution, Prodensa provided peace of mind The client didn’t just meet expectations they exceeded them Today, that facility is one of their fastest-growing operations globally.
Every success story begins with a first step. This was theirs. What will yours look like?
Why Mexico’s Aerospace Momentum Is Just Getting Started
Mexico’s aerospace industry has come a long way and it’s only getting better What began with basic parts has grown into assembling complex systems: airframes, drones, avionics This kind of transformation doesn’t happen by accident It’s built on smart investments, strategy, and teamwork
Working with manufacturers daily, I see a clear trend: companies aren’t just considering Mexico anymore—they’re committing. Nearshoring is no longer optional; it’s a strategy to stay competitive. Mexico offers what global supply chains need right now: resilience, talent, and proximity.
7 billion
This growth isn’t just talk we’re watching of skilled suppliers, Mexico is thriving in critical systems that keep aircraft flying Tijuana and calls Mexico one of its key gl in Queré
Sure, trade uncertainty remains a challenge But here’s the truth: Mexico is showing up as a dependable, forward-thinking partner for aerospace
Through our Mexico Journey® model, we’ve helped dozens of companies land and grow here And if you ask me, this is only the beginning
If you’re in aerospace and planning your next move, don’t wait Mexico isn’t just ready—it’s already taking off.
MarcoKuljacha
Up and Consulting President, Prodensa
Mexico’s Aeropspace Industry
Mexico’s Aeropspace Industry Market Size Figures in USD Sources: FEMIA, USITC (HTS 88), Banxico *Estimated figures
The Best Insights for Manufacturing Executives
If you're a global executive exploring Mexico as a strategic hub for your operations, this is for you What trends should you be watching? Where do trade and compliance intersect with real-world growth?
We've selected some of Prodensa’s most relevant and exclusive articles written by our experts who work directly with manufacturers like you Each QR code will take you straight to a blog or resource designed to give you clarity, ideas, and an edge in your next big move
Aerospace in Mexico
The Aerospace Industryin Mexico
The Aerospace Industryin Mexico (Deep Dive)
Discover why Mexico has become a high-performance hub for global aerospace manufacturing From clusters to certifications, this article outlines the strategic advantages you need to know.
A complete resource for investors and manufacturers understand Mexico's aerospace value chain, workforce, and ecosystem in one downloadable guide.
Stay ahead with the most up-to-date insights on aerospace trade rules, IMMEX requirements, and export compliance in Mexico Clear, actionable guidance designed for 2024 and beyond
Hidden Cost & Trade Secrets
Strategies forMexican Exportersto Optimize Tariff Exemptions
Explore duty-drawback options and strategic use of trade programs like IMMEX and PROSEC to reduce tariff costs
Understanding RulesofOrigin: AreYouPaying MoreTariffs ThanYou Should? Trade Compliance 2024for Aerospace Companiesin Mexico
A practical guide for avoiding unnecessary duties under USMCA and other trade agreements ideal for procurement and compliance teams
MANUFACTURERS
Curious about ManufacturersGuide in Mexico?
DoingBusiness inMexico-A Manufacturers Guide
Learn the core stages of setting up a manufacturing operation in Mexico from entity choice to labor strategy and logistics.
Mexico’s Employement Law-Key Conceptsfor Manufacturers
2025Trade Trends:The Futureof Manufacturing inMexico
Understand what global employers need to know about Mexico’s evolving labor law and how to stay compliant.
MANUFACTURERS
North America’s Next Moves
Explore what's next in North American trade policy, investment flows, and how manufacturers should prepare
DID YOU K N O W
Industry Outlook: Aheadofthe USMCA Reviewin2026
We outlined the biggest questions ahead of the USMCA review and how it may shape the future of regional manufacturing
Did you know Mexico’s aerospace industry is set to surpass $22 billion by 2029 and Prodensa is already on the ground in over 15 key states making it happen?
From Baja California to Querétaro, Prodensa supports the growth of aerospace clusters by helping companies land, build, and scale across Mexico’s most strategic regions
