Raven Space Systems’ Strategic Move to Colorado: A Comprehensive Analysis of Aerospace 3D Printing Innovation and Economic Development

Raven Space Systems’ decision to establish its headquarters and manufacturing facility in Broomfield, Colorado, marks a pivotal moment for both the company and the state’s robust aerospace sector. Announced in August 2025, this move is expected to bring up to 392 high-paying jobs to the area, with positions offering an average annual wage of $130,867. The company’s innovative Microwave Assisted Deposition (MAD) 3D printing technology aims to resolve critical Supply-Chain bottlenecks in aerospace manufacturing by enabling rapid production of aerospace-grade thermoset and ceramic composites. This relocation occurs within a booming aerospace 3D printing market, projected to grow from $3.26 billion in 2024 to $15.35 billion by 2033 at an 18.79% compound annual growth rate. Colorado’s selection as Raven’s new home further cements the state’s position as a national leader in aerospace, supporting over 2,000 aerospace companies and boasting the highest concentration of private aerospace workers in the United States. Raven’s move exemplifies how aerospace innovators are gravitating toward ecosystems that provide talent, customer proximity, and government support, reinforcing Colorado as a hub for next-generation space technology.

Company Background and Technology Innovation

Raven Space Systems was founded by Blake Herren and Ryan Cowdrey, whose collaboration began during their graduate studies at the University of Oklahoma. The company’s core technology, MAD 3D printing, was first conceptualized as a research tool in Cowdrey’s garage during the pandemic, before evolving into a full-fledged commercial venture. Officially established in 2020, Raven has rapidly advanced from its humble beginnings to become a recognized innovator in aerospace Manufacturing.

The MAD 3D printing technology represents a significant leap in thermoset composite manufacturing. Traditional methods require days for composite materials to cure, often using large ovens and extensive manual labor. In contrast, Raven’s technology cures materials instantly during the 3D printing process, enabling rapid, large-scale production of aerospace components while reducing labor, tooling costs, and material waste. The system can process a variety of off-the-shelf aerospace-grade resins and fillers, including glass and carbon fibers, with material compatibility extending to epoxy, phenolic, silicone, silicone carbide, and carbon-carbide composites.

This technological breakthrough allows Raven to address the needs of demanding aerospace applications such as hypersonics, Propulsion systems, reentry vehicles, satellites, aircraft, missiles, and rockets. The company’s rapid growth has been fueled by approximately $5.5 million in government funding from the U.S. Air Force, NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the Small Business Innovation and Research program. In late 2024, Raven completed a $2 million pre-seed funding round with participation from multiple venture capital firms.

“There are not enough suppliers. There’s a massive need there, supply chain, bottleneck issues, everybody has a hair-on-fire problem with these thermal protection and structure materials.” — Blake Herren, CEO, Raven Space Systems

Recognition for Raven’s innovation includes co-founder Ryan Cowdrey’s inclusion in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list for 2025 and a $1.8 million Phase II STTR contract from the U.S. Air-Forces’ AFWERX program for 3D printing reentry aeroshells for hypersonic flight testing. These accolades underscore the company’s influence in advanced manufacturing and its potential to transform aerospace supply chains.

The Broomfield Headquarters Decision

Raven Space Systems’ choice of Broomfield, Colorado, as its new headquarters reflects a strategic evaluation of talent access, proximity to customers, and state-level support. The announcement, made with Governor Polis and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, highlights the mutually beneficial nature of the move. Colorado’s dense network of aerospace companies and educational institutions provides Raven with a qualified workforce and immediate access to potential partners and customers.

The new facility will be significantly larger than Raven’s previous 3,000-square-foot location, designed to accommodate industrial-scale 3D printing, mixing, and machining. This expansion allows Raven to move from prototyping to full-scale production, meeting the volume and quality demands of major defense and space industry clients. The state’s commitment to attracting high-value manufacturing is evident in the approval of up to $5.85 million in performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credits, contingent on job creation and salary benchmarks.

Governor Polis emphasized the strategic value of the move: “Colorado is the best place to live, work and do business, and we are thrilled to see Raven Space Systems expand in Colorado. The company will help advance our state’s thriving aerospace ecosystem and create 392 good-paying jobs.” Raven’s CEO, Blake Herren, echoed this sentiment, citing the incredible support received and the state’s suitability for scaling advanced manufacturing operations.

“Broomfield’s thriving and diverse aerospace ecosystem, along with our easy access to the top educational institutions in Colorado, make it the ideal home for Raven Space Systems.” — Mayor Castriotta, Broomfield

These endorsements reflect not only tangible incentives but also the intangible benefits of a collaborative and innovation-driven business environment.

Colorado’s Aerospace Ecosystem

Colorado’s aerospace sector is one of the nation’s most concentrated and advanced, supporting over 2,000 businesses and more than 55,000 direct employees. This ecosystem includes 290 specialized aerospace businesses and over 500 suppliers, with the majority located in the Metro Denver and Northern Colorado region. The state’s aerospace employment has grown by 26.3% in the last five years, and its companies secured over $23 billion in federal contracts in the most recent reporting period.

The region’s dense concentration of talent and facilities fosters collaboration and supply chain optimization, benefiting companies like Raven. Colorado’s aerospace industry is diverse, spanning commercial, military, and civil space sectors. Companies in the state contribute to earth observation, remote sensing, space exploration, and human spacecraft applications. High-profile projects, such as the James Webb Space Telescope and NASA’s Artemis program, feature significant contributions from Colorado-based firms.

The state’s aerospace sector is closely linked with other advanced technology industries, including quantum computing, AI, and cybersecurity. This cross-sector synergy accelerates innovation and attracts companies working on the cutting edge of aerospace, manufacturing, and defense technologies.

Market Context and Industry Growth

The aerospace 3D printing market is experiencing rapid expansion, with multiple sources projecting a compound annual growth rate above 18% through 2033. Market size estimates place the sector at $3.26 billion in 2024, with expectations to reach $15.35 billion by 2033. North America leads globally, accounting for up to 41% of the market, supported by major aerospace manufacturers, government investment, and research infrastructure.

Growth is driven by the need for lightweight, fuel-efficient aircraft and spacecraft, as well as the advantages of 3D printing for complex, low-volume parts. Government investment, such as China’s $100 million allocation for aerospace 3D printing R&D and nearly $12 million in research grants, demonstrates the global race to advance additive manufacturing capabilities.

Material innovation is another key driver, with new composites enabling lighter, stronger, and more durable aerospace components. The aircraft segment currently leads the market, but the spacecraft segment is projected to grow fastest due to increased space exploration and adoption of 3D-printed parts in launch vehicles and satellites. Leading companies in the sector are investing in research, Partnerships, and automation to maintain competitiveness.

“The materials segment is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by innovation in lighter, stronger, and more durable composites.” — Market Research Report, 2024

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Raven’s move to Broomfield is expected to create up to 392 new jobs, each offering an average salary of $130,867, well above the county average. These positions span engineering, manufacturing, management, and executive roles, reflecting the full spectrum of skills required for advanced aerospace production.

Performance-based tax incentives, totaling up to $5.85 million over eight years, ensure that public investment is matched by measurable economic returns. The aerospace sector’s growth, 26.3% employment increase over five years, suggests a favorable environment for Raven’s expansion. Regional leaders, including the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation and the Colorado Space Coalition, have praised the move as validation of Colorado’s leadership in advanced manufacturing and next-generation space technology.

The economic ripple effect extends beyond direct employment. Raven’s integration into the local supply chain will support additional jobs among suppliers, contractors, and service providers. The company’s presence is also expected to facilitate knowledge transfer and collaboration within Colorado’s aerospace cluster, reinforcing the state’s competitive edge.

Future Prospects and Strategic Implications

Raven Space Systems is poised for significant milestones, including a planned 2025 demonstration mission to the International Space Station, where its 3D-printed capsule will be tested during atmospheric reentry. If successful, this would demonstrate the viability of MAD technology for critical space applications, potentially accelerating adoption by commercial and government customers.

The company’s roadmap includes establishing a certified aerospace production facility and expanding its government and commercial contracts. Trends such as multi-material printing, automation, and sustainability are expected to further enhance Raven’s competitive positioning. As the aerospace sector increasingly prioritizes supply chain resilience and rapid innovation, Raven’s technology offers a compelling solution to industry-wide challenges.

“Colorado is known for its leadership in aerospace and advanced manufacturing, and Raven Space Systems will advance both of these leading industries while creating good-paying jobs for Coloradans.” — Eve Lieberman, OEDIT Executive Director

Conclusion

Raven Space Systems’ relocation to Broomfield, Colorado, is a testament to the state’s thriving aerospace ecosystem and the transformative potential of advanced 3D printing technologies. The company’s MAD technology addresses critical manufacturing bottlenecks, enabling faster, more efficient production of aerospace-grade components. This move not only brings hundreds of high-paying jobs to Colorado but also strengthens the state’s position as a national leader in aerospace innovation.

Looking ahead, Raven is well-positioned to capitalize on the rapid growth of the aerospace 3D printing market and the increasing demand for supply chain resilience, sustainability, and technological advancement. The company’s integration into Colorado’s dynamic aerospace cluster, combined with strong public and private sector support, sets the stage for continued innovation and industry leadership.

FAQ

What is Raven Space Systems?
Raven Space Systems is a 3D-printing company specializing in aerospace-grade thermoset and ceramic composites, using its proprietary Microwave Assisted Deposition (MAD) technology.

Why did Raven choose Broomfield, Colorado, for its headquarters?
The decision was based on access to specialized talent, proximity to aerospace customers and partners, and robust state-level support, including incentives and a collaborative business environment.

How many jobs will Raven create, and what is the average salary?
Raven plans to create up to 392 jobs with an average annual wage of $130,867, significantly above the regional average.

What is unique about Raven’s MAD 3D printing technology?
MAD technology cures thermoset composites instantly during the 3D printing process, enabling rapid, large-scale production and reducing labor, tooling, and waste compared to traditional methods.

What is the projected growth of the aerospace 3D printing market?
The market is expected to grow from $3.26 billion in 2024 to $15.35 billion by 2033, with an annual growth rate of approximately 18.79%.

Sources: Denver Gazette, Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, Forbes, Metro Denver EDC, GlobeNewswire, National Security Innovation Network