In South Texas, a union of EDCs is taking place

During the third annual Workforce Summit hosted by South Texas College in March, the CEOs and executive directors of the Economic Development Corporations (EDCs) from the cities of Pharr, McAllen, Mission, Edinburg, and Weslaco pledged to drive new strategies to promote and enhance educational tools in South Texas.

By staying united, they ensure access to better opportunities for the entire population and provide assurances for industries to have skilled professionals, emphasized Ricardo Solis, president of South Texas College. Victor Perez, CEO of Pharr EDC; Teclo García, CEO of Mission EDC; Keith Patridge, CEO of McAllen EDC; Raudel Garza, executive director of Edinburg EDC; and Steven Valdez, executive director of Weslaco EDC, participated from their respective organizations.

In their remarks, the executives emphasized the importance of fostering education to attract investments, stay competitive, and keep up with new knowledge and technological innovations. They also stressed the need to enhance workforce skills and send a message to the community that, as a region, all sectors are preparing for better conditions and growth.

Rose Benavidez, president of the Starr Industrial Foundation, participated in the panel with the EDCs. Harrison Keller from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board was the guest of honor at this third edition of the Workforce Summit.

South Texas College highlighted that the industry is one of the most dynamic economic sectors in South Texas. Therefore, discussions focused on the importance of training professionals in computer science, manufacturing, mechatronics, automotive, and robotics.