Montgomery College’s PIC MC and Hughes Network Systems to Celebrate Grand Opening of High-Tech Manufacturing Facility with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, Friday, April 26

Montgomery College, Minkoff Development, and South Duvall are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES)'s cutting-edge manufacturing facility at Montgomery College’s Germantown Campus. This 140,000-square-foot build-to-suit project marks a significant milestone in technological advancement and collaboration. 

“This dynamic partnership underscores our steadfast commitment to Montgomery County and propels us forward in our mission to connect the unconnected worldwide with groundbreaking satellite and networking solutions,” said Jim Muir, III, vice president, corporate real estate at Hughes. “We're eager to open our doors to MC students, fostering a spirit of learning and growth, and continuing to engage with the vibrant community that surrounds us.” 

Located at 19710 Observation Drive in Germantown, Maryland, adjacent to the Hughes headquarters complex, this state-of-the-art facility is poised to revolutionize satellite broadband and networking equipment production, cementing Montgomery County's reputation as a hub for innovation.

Responding to an RFP from the Pinkney Innovation Complex for Science and Technology (PIC MC) in 2018, Minkoff Development and South Duvall secured exclusive development rights and a long-term ground lease for this transformative project, strategically positioned within a RISE & Opportunity zone. 

"Hughes is a beacon of innovation in satellite and networking technologies, and we're proud to play a part in their continued success,” exclaimed Andy Chod, Co-President of Minkoff Development. “This collaboration highlights the power of partnership in driving progress and prosperity.”

As part of the collaboration, Hughes and Montgomery College (MC) will continue to join forces on training and educational initiatives.

“Montgomery College is proud to partner with Hughes on our Germantown Campus,” said Jermaine F. Williams, president of Montgomery College. “The arrival of this facility will create new opportunities for student internships, mentoring, and potential employment. The College is proud to contribute to the pipeline of highly skilled talent fueling the local workforce.”

“We're filled with optimism and hope as we embark on this transformative partnership with Hughes,” shared Tommy Luginbill, executive director, Pinkney Innovation Complex for Science and Technology. “This endeavor symbolizes the boundless potential for innovation and collaboration that exists within our community.”

“Hughes and Montgomery College are both anchors of the Montgomery County community and we are grateful to have been able to play a role in their collaboration,” remarked Matthew Brown of South Duvall. “This facility highlights the County’s position as a strategic location for high-tech companies.”

Scheer Partners, led by Henry Bernstein, Matt Brady, and Aaron Gambini, spearheaded the building's leasing efforts, while Kevin Wille, Nadia Kahler, and Brad Wilner of CBRE represented Hughes.