HARLINGEN, Texas – Industrial growth is creating new opportunities for Rio Grande Valley residents who once had to leave the region for technical and professional careers, but employers and educators say the local training pipeline must grow with the economy.
Workforce leaders discussed that challenge during the "Powering Texas and Regional Growth: Infrastructure and Workforce Exchange" in Harlingen. The panel included Workforce Solutions Cameron Chief Executive Officer Rafael Vela, NextDecade community relations director Andrea Figueroa Benton, TSTC Harlingen Provost Gina Cano-Monreal and RGV LEAD Executive Director Maricela "Mari" De Leon.
The discussion came as major industrial, energy, logistics and manufacturing projects increase demand for construction workers, technicians, operators and support staff. Panelists said the Valley now has more jobs capable of attracting former residents back home, but employers cannot assume qualified applicants will be available without sustained investment in education.
The speakers emphasized exposing middle- and high-school students to technical careers before graduation. They also discussed short-term credentials, apprenticeships and college programs designed with employers so graduates learn the equipment and procedures used on the job.
Transportation, child care and awareness of available programs remain barriers for some students and workers. Coordination among employers, colleges and workforce boards can help residents understand which credentials lead to openings and what financial assistance is available.
The panel said the goal is not only filling current vacancies. A dependable local workforce can influence whether future companies choose the Rio Grande Valley and whether large projects continue hiring locally after construction ends.
