What is ITEX in Maximum Ride?

In the Maximum Ride book series by James Patterson, ITEX stands for the Institute of Technological Expertise. It is a secret government organization responsible for the creation and training of genetically modified children, known as Maximum Ride and the Flock. ITEX aims to exploit their extraordinary abilities for military and covert operations. The organization is led by Jeb and Dr. Valencia Perez, scientists who oversee the Flock's development and experimentation. ITEX serves as the antagonist throughout the series.