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Paul Fenley
President & COO Atec, Inc.
Professional Background
Paul R. Fenley has established himself as a prominent leader in the aerospace and energy engineering sectors through his extensive career at Atec, Inc., where he has dedicated over 30 years of service. Born and raised in Texas and a long-time Houston resident, Paul embodies the spirit of Texan ingenuity and perseverance. His journey at Atec began upon his graduation from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, where he initiated his career as a Support Engineer. With a natural affinity for innovation, Paul swiftly progressed to the role of Design Engineer, where he spearheaded the development of Atec's acclaimed Phoenix™ Modular Test Cells, setting new standards in jet engine testing facilities.
In 2008, Paul ascended to the role of President, bringing a vision characterized by team building and strategic planning, aptly termed "Planning to Win." Under his leadership, Atec successfully acquired four competitors in the past five years, significantly bolstering the company's production capacity and driving a remarkable 500% increase in revenues. His strategic focus on expanding Atec's space systems business played a pivotal role in earning the distinction of NASA's Agency-wide Small Business Contractor of the Year in 2016. In 2017, Paul was promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO), where he oversees all enterprise operations worldwide, continuing to guide Atec into new realms of advanced manufacturing, including CNC machining and 3D additive manufacturing.
Education and Achievements
Paul's academic foundation was established at Texas A&M University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering. This rigorous education equipped him with the skills necessary to excel in a highly technical field that demands both innovation and precision. He has since applied his knowledge in real-world applications, leading significant engineering projects that have earned Atec, Inc. numerous accolades and recognitions within the aerospace industry.
His leadership qualities and commitment to excellence have also been recognized by various prestigious organizations. In 2017, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award in Aerospace from the Houston Technology Center, honoring his contributions to the industry and community. Furthermore, Atec has been lauded with various awards, including being named a DCMA Top 500 Supplier in 2018, SBA Region VI Small Business of the Year in 2017, and NASA’s National Small Business Subcontractor of the Year in 2016, demonstrating the impact of his leadership and strategic vision.
Community Involvement
Beyond his professional achievements, Paul Fenley is actively engaged in the community and contributes to the growth of future engineers through his involvement with various organizations. He serves on the Texas A&M Aerospace Engineering Advisory Board, where he mentors students and provides insights on industry trends. Additionally, Paul is an active member of the SAE Turbine Test Cell Standards Group and the AIAA TETWOG Working Group,collaborating with industry peers to uphold the highest standards in aerospace engineering and testing.
He also plays a pivotal role in the HCC Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence (COE) industry advisory committee, helping to shape the curriculum and foster partnerships between academia and industry to prepare the next generation of engineers. Paul remains a former President of the Southwest Association for the Promotion of Research and Application (SWAPRA) and has served on the board of the Houston Technology Center, further underscoring his commitment to the aerospace sector and community leadership.
Looking Ahead
As COO of Atec, Paul Fenley continues to lead the company into uncharted territories within aerospace and energy engineering. His vision for Atec is steadfast, driving innovation and operational excellence while nurturing a workforce that embodies the values of collaboration and strategic thinking. With his belief that success in business requires faith, Paul combines his technical expertise with a deep understanding of the importance of a supportive team environment.
With his rich experience, unwavering dedication, and forward-thinking approach, Paul Fenley is poised to guide Atec, Inc. as it embraces new challenges and opportunities in the rapidly evolving aerospace and energy industries. His journey is a testament to the power of leadership and vision in driving an organization towards success and excellence.
