Pharr Roundtable Addresses Manufacturing Growth and Workforce Gaps
Manufacturing leaders, government officials, and educators gathered in Pharr, Texas, to discuss workforce shortages, automation, and investment opportunities shaping the industrial future of the Rio Grande Valley. The meeting was organized by the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC) at the Pharr Global Business Hub.
The discussion highlighted the importance of aligning technical education with manufacturers’ hiring needs as companies adopt advanced technologies and expand production capabilities. Participants emphasized that access to qualified workers, reliable infrastructure, and suitable industrial sites remains essential to attracting new investment.
Ron Garza, senior associate vice president for Workforce and Economic Development at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), reported that approximately 85,000 students attend higher education institutions across the region, including more than 36,000 at UTRGV. He stressed the need for closer coordination between employers and educational institutions to prepare workers with relevant technical skills.
Manufacturers also identified shortages of technicians with expertise in electrical systems, robotics, and automation. Representatives from Emerson Tool Company highlighted the growing importance of advanced technology skills, while educational institutions discussed technical certifications, dual-enrollment programs, internships, and career pathways.
The roundtable also addressed transportation, water availability, and infrastructure requirements that influence industrial development. Pharr EDC President and CEO Victor Perez emphasized that collaboration among businesses, government agencies, and educational institutions is critical to positioning the region for new manufacturing projects.
As part of these efforts, UTRGV announced a US$5 million award through a partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration to help small manufacturers strengthen their capabilities and participate in local supply chains. Training was expected to begin in January 2027, supporting the region’s efforts to develop a more competitive manufacturing workforce.
Related posts:
