$6.6 Million Investment to Create 94 New Jobs in Knox County
Aqua Membranes, an Albuquerque-based leader in reverse osmosis (RO) membrane manufacturing, announced plans to establish its first facility outside New Mexico in Knoxville, Tennessee. The $6.6 million investment will create 94 new jobs and significantly expand the company’s production capacity to meet rising global demand for sustainable water treatment technologies.
The new 200,000-square-foot facility, located in the Forks of the River Valley Industrial Park, will support large-scale customer contracts and accelerate adoption of Aqua Membranes’ innovative Printed Spacer Technology®—a breakthrough solution that replaces traditional mesh feed channels in spiral wound membranes. This patented technology reduces energy consumption, increases flow, minimizes fouling, and extends membrane lifespan, delivering more sustainable and cost-effective water treatment solutions worldwide.
Leadership Statements
“Tennessee is recognized nationwide for having one of the fastest-growing economies, driven by our pro-business climate and committed workforce. Today’s announcement reinforces why companies like Aqua Membranes continue to invest in the Volunteer State.” — Governor Bill Lee
“With strong leadership, sound infrastructure and a highly skilled workforce, Knoxville is primed to support Aqua Membranes’ second U.S. facility. We stand ready to support the company’s growth and success in the years to come.” — Stuart C. McWhorter, Deputy Governor and Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD)
“Opening our new facility marks a major milestone for Aqua Membranes. It’s a signal to the industry that we’re ready to scale. With this expanded capacity, we can deliver our technology to more partners around the world looking for sustainable, high-performance water solutions.” — Craig Beckman, CEO, Aqua Membranes
“Creating job opportunities and bringing investment to the region is fundamental to TVA’s mission. We’re proud to welcome Aqua Membranes to the Tennessee Valley and look forward to supporting their continued success.” — John Bradley, Senior Vice President of Economic Development, Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
About Aqua Membranes
Founded in 2011, Aqua Membranes Inc. develops and manufactures spiral-wound membrane elements using its proprietary Printed Spacer Technology®, which directly prints the feed channel spacer onto the membrane surface. This design enhances efficiency, reduces fouling, saves energy, and increases output—offering one of the most sustainable and cost-effective water filtration solutions available today.
Learn more at www.aquamembranes.com.
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD)
TNECD fosters economic growth and job creation across Tennessee by attracting new corporate investment and supporting the expansion of existing businesses. The department also partners with local communities to create vibrant, business-friendly environments that enable long-term success.
Media Contacts:
Aqua Membranes
Ellie Barker
Director of Marketing
(617) 717-9671
ellie.barker@aquamembranes.com
TNECD
Chris O’Brien
Public Information Officer
(615) 934-5879
chris.obrien@tn.gov
