National and trade media experienced Fort Worth’s innovation economy firsthand during a FWEDP familiarization tour, highlighting aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and global industry leaders. The visit generated national coverage that reinforces Fort Worth’s growing reputation as a premier destination for business, investment, and innovation.
[image: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, approved for public release per aero and JPO Communications]
By Jessica Heer, Executive Vice President | Jan. 23, 2026
Before the books closed in 2025, the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership (FWEDP) hosted a three-day familiarization tour for national and trade media outlets. Known in the economic development industry as a “FAM tour,” it offered a behind-the-scenes look at the companies, people, and partnerships driving Fort Worth’s rapidly expanding innovation economy. From aerospace and defense to advanced manufacturing and life science technology, the tour highlighted the industries that continue to position Fort Worth as one of the most dynamic business destinations in the United States.
A Texas Welcome
Reporters stayed in the heart of the Stockyards National Historic District at Hotel Drover, a perfect starting point to experience Fort Worth’s unique blend of western heritage and modern sophistication. That evening, the group enjoyed dinner at 97 West Kitchen & Bar, where they were welcomed by Robert Allen, CEO of FWEDP, Jay Chapa, Fort Worth City Manager, and Mayor Mattie Parker. The evening offered a warm introduction to the city’s leadership and the collaborative spirit driving Fort Worth’s economic growth.
Exploring Innovation at the Source
The first stop was Alcon, the world’s largest eye care device manufacturer that had its start in Fort Worth. Reporters toured the facility and learned how Alcon’s innovations in surgical and vision care technologies impact millions of patients around the globe.
Next, the group visited Bell, where they explored the company’s state-of-the-art facility and saw firsthand how Fort Worth serves as a hub for advanced manufacturing and aerospace innovation. Bell’s ongoing commitment to research and cutting-edge production technologies reflects the city’s broader economic momentum and emphasis on high-skilled industries.
facility in Fort Worth
Technology Center (MTC)
Jim Litinsky, CEO of MP Materials
That afternoon, attendees joined the FWEDP Annual Meeting, which featured a fireside chat with Jim Litinsky, CEO of MP Materials, and Mike Berry, President of Hillwood. The conversation explored the future of advanced manufacturing, supply chain resiliency, and the strategic role Fort Worth plays in supporting America’s innovation economy.
A Look at Global Impact
The tour continued with a visit to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, home to the design and production of the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet. The mile-long facility employs thousands of engineers, technicians, and specialists whose work strengthens both regional economic growth and national security. The visit offered exclusive insight into one of the largest defense manufacturing operations in the country. Flying Magazine later highlighted the experience in its coverage, “Lockheed Nears Record Year for F-35 Deliveries.”
The final destination was AllianceTexas, the 27,000-acre master-planned development anchored by Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport, the world’s first industrial airport. Reporters learned how AllianceTexas has become a global model for public-private partnership, serving as a hub for logistics, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing. Coverage from Air Insight noted how “Fort Worth’s aviation ecosystem gives the city an edge in Texas’s broader economic boom.”
AllianceTexas in Fort Worth
at AllianceTexas in Fort Worth
National Media Coverage
The FAM tour generated strong national and trade media attention, emphasizing Fort Worth’s role as a center of innovation, collaboration, and industrial growth.
Flying Magazine: “Lockheed Nears Record Year for F-35 Deliveries”
Air Insight: “Ft. Worth’s Aviation Edge in Texas Economic Boom”
Area Development: “Front Line: A Single Front Door for Corporate Investment in Fort Worth”
Runway Girl Network: “Fort Worth Economic Development Soars — Including in Aerospace”
Together, these stories amplify Fort Worth’s message on a national scale highlighting a city where industry leaders choose to build, innovate, and thrive.
Why This Media Coverage Matters for Fort Worth
This FAM tour offered journalists an up-close look at Fort Worth’s evolving economic landscape, one defined by innovation, collaboration, and sustained growth. By engaging directly with the companies and people shaping Fort Worth’s future, FWEDP is ensuring Fort Worth’s story reaches audiences across the country and around the world.
Media exposure like this positions Fort Worth as a premier destination for business expansion, talent attraction, and investment. Each story written, photo shared, and relationship built contributes to a stronger narrative of a city that honors its roots while embracing the future, where advanced industry and opportunity grow side by side.
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Jessica Heer is the Executive Vice President of the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership. The Fort Worth EDP works directly with companies, site selection consultants, and corporate real estate professionals who are interested in moving or expanding to Fort Worth, Tarrant County, and the surrounding areas. If you’d like to learn more about Fort Worth, please schedule a meeting with us or check out our Why Fort Worth page