State names new executive director for New Mexico Border Authority

An executive branch agency that represents New Mexico’s development of international ports of entry and cross-border trade has a new executive director.

A transportation analyst and logistics expert, Gerardo Fierro was named to the lead position for the Santa Teresa-based New Mexico Border Authority by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, according to a news release.

Fierro started in the role in August, the New Mexico Economic Development Department’s release said.

“Gerardo Fierro brings deep, on-the-ground experience with cross-border transportation, infrastructure and trade and will be a great resource to help the border region reach its full economic potential for the people of New Mexico,” EDD Secretary-Designate Rob Black said in a statement.

According to the state, Fierro joined the agency following a stint as a transportation analyst with the El Paso Metropolitan Planning Organization — working on infrastructure and global trade development. Fierro has also worked in management with Premier Trucking in Hidalgo, Texas, and has served as a logistics expert with El Mesteno Cattle Co. in Santa Teresa.

He has a bachelor’s degree in economics and international business from New Mexico State University.

In Fierro’s new role, he will oversee development at New Mexico’s ports of entry in Antelope Wells, Columbus and Santa Teresa — the latter of which has seen increased expansion in recent years by international businesses.

His appointment comes at a time of extreme growth for the exporting of New Mexico-made goods.

According to the New Mexico International Business Accelerator, the state exported roughly $1.2 billion worth of products across the globe in July 2024, with year-to-date exports standing at $4.8 billion — 68% higher than the same time in 2023. And, according to the accelerator, July saw New Mexico export about $819 million worth of goods to Mexico alone, up from $274 million in July 2023.

In a statement, Fierro said the international border is “set to bring unprecedented opportunities to the state through trade, transportation and economic development.”

“My experience in logistics, cross-border projects and fostering relationships with governments in both the U.S. and Mexico will help the state as we move to diversify our economy by improving cross-border relationships and growing global trade that will create jobs,” Fierro added.