KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The Association of Commercial Space Professionals (ACSP) concluded its 2025 Space Regulatory Bootcamp this week, leaving attendees empowered and ready to tackle the complexities of the burgeoning commercial space sector. Held at Q Station, a hub for collaboration near Kirtland Air Force Base, the two-day workshop drew professionals, policymakers, and military-connected innovators seeking to navigate the increasingly intricate legal landscape governing activities beyond Earth.
From June 10th-11th, participants delved into a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip them with actionable knowledge. Sessions covered a broad spectrum of topics, including federal licensing, export compliance under International Traffic in Arms Regulations/Export Administration Regulations, telecommunications law, space insurance, commercial remote sensing, mission authorization, and even venture fundraising strategies for space startups. Experts from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and leading legal firms provided invaluable insights.
“This isn’t just theory. This is actionable information you can take directly into industry or government,” said Jane Kinney, ACSP President, underscoring the workshop's practical focus. “Our goal is to demystify regulation and help our attendees become informed advocates within the space sector.”
The bootcamp drew a diverse crowd, reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of the space industry. Civilian contractors, JAG officers, university researchers, and aspiring entrepreneurs were all in attendance, eager to gain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving field. One attendee, Yuriria (Yuri) Morales-Mangone, a repeat participant, highlighted the significance of New Mexico as a burgeoning space hub. "This is my third year attending the workshop and each year I think a little bit more about everything we have going on in our amazing State. We are truly unique."
Randy Trask, president of the New Mexico Trade Alliance, which manages Q Station, emphasized the importance of connecting national space policy to local economic development, highlighting the role of hubs like Albuquerque in fostering innovation.
The ACSP plans to expand the program to additional cities in 2026, signaling a growing commitment to workforce development and education within the space industry.
"This is about building bridges — between government and startups, between policy and execution, and between national goals and local talent," Kinney concluded, summarizing the event's overarching mission. The Space Regulatory Bootcamp is poised to continue playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration and commercialization.