Laredo, TX — Workforce Solutions for South Texas has launched the Summer Paid Work Experience program, a new initiative designed to offer paid summer employment to low-income youth between the ages of 16 and 24. The program, funded through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), will serve up to 40 young people this summer.

The initiative focuses on supporting both in-school and out-of-school youth, offering them real-world job opportunities and exposure to professional work environments. Participants will be placed in supervised worksites during summer break, where they will receive hands-on training that promotes experiential learning and personal growth.

“This program is especially important for youth who are not currently enrolled in school,” said Patricia Barrera, Project Director at Workforce Solutions for South Texas. “We are addressing the challenges these young people face by offering meaningful job experience, mentorship, and the chance to develop the skills needed to succeed—whether they return to education or transition directly into the workforce.”

The program will help young participants gain valuable work experience, connect with employers, and build soft skills such as communication, time management, and teamwork. It also encourages employers to offer training in roles that do not require traditional classroom education, opening doors to long-term career paths for local youth.

To be eligible for the Summer Paid Work Experience program, applicants must come from low-income families. This can be shown through participation in assistance programs such as TANF, SNAP, CHIP, Medicaid, WIC, public housing, subsidized childcare, or free or reduced-price school meals, or by meeting federal poverty guidelines.

In-school youth will complete six-week paid internships through nonprofit organizations that serve rural areas. Out-of-school youth will be matched with private-sector employers for six-week paid employment experiences designed to prepare them for future career or educational opportunities.

Beyond job placements, the program also offers mentorship, guidance, and access to resources that support long-term career growth. Workforce Solutions for South Texas continues its commitment to addressing local workforce needs and creating opportunities for future generations.

Interested youth are encouraged to fill out a pre-registration form at https://bit.ly/Summr25 or text the word SUMMER to 956-637-2979 for more information.

LAREDO, TX — May 16, 2025 — The Laredo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) continues to show signs of economic resilience and labor force expansion, according to the latest data released for April 2025 by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), on Friday, May 16, 2025.

According to the data taken from the Labor Market Information division, the civilian labor force in the Laredo MSA increased to 122,145, a growth of 4,299 individuals compared to April 2024. Employment reached 116,693, up by 3,308 jobs over the year. The area’s unemployment rate, while rising slightly to 4.5% compared to 3.8% in April 2024, remains close to statewide and national averages.

Texas overall reported an unemployment rate of 3.7%, and the United States registered a national rate of 3.9%.

“These figures reflect a growing confidence in the local economy and increased participation in the labor market,” said Rogelio Treviño, Executive Director of Workforce Solutions for South Texas. “We remain committed to connecting our regional workforce with employment opportunities that lead to family-sustaining wages and long-term career success.”

In addition to labor force growth, key industry sectors such as Trade, Transportation, and Utilities and Government continue to lead in total wages paid, representing $419.69 million and $392.07 million respectively in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Workforce Solutions for South Texas remains dedicated to supporting both job seekers and employers through a range of services, including career navigation, business outreach, training initiatives, and youth employment programs.

The unemployment rate in the tri-county area of South Texas (Jim Hogg, Webb and Zapata counties) was 4.6% during April, showing a 0.2% decreased.

For more information, please visit https://texaslmi.com/

LAREDO, TX — (May 6, 2025) — Workforce Solutions for South Texas (WSST) and the Laredo Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) are proud to announce the upcoming “Shop Local & Job Fair,” taking place on Friday, May 16, 2025, at The Outlet Shoppes Event Center. This community-focused event brings together job seekers, local employers, and small business owners for an afternoon dedicated to economic opportunity and local commerce.

During a press conference, Mr. Rogelio Treviño, Executive Director at WSST, stated, “This event is a perfect example of what happens when workforce and community leaders come together to open doors of opportunity. Our goal is to connect local talent with employers ready to hire, and this event is the perfect example of that in action.” Treviño added that the event, part of the 2025 Economic Development Week, also supports the “Shop Local. Shop Laredo” campaign, promoting the incredible small businesses that help our region thrive.

Mr. David A. Stedman, Sr., President and CEO of the Laredo Economic Development Corporation, remarked that the Shop Local & Job Fair reflects the LEDC’s continued investment in the people and businesses of Laredo. He emphasized that economic development begins at home, and this event provides a platform for residents to find jobs, support local entrepreneurs, and strengthen the regional economy.

Representing Webb County, Commissioner Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina of Precinct Two expressed her support, saying, “I am proud to support initiatives like this that bring opportunity directly to our community. Events like the Shop Local & Job Fair empower families, help businesses grow, and build a stronger, more connected Webb County.”

City of Laredo Council Member for District 3, Ms. Melissa Cigarroa, shared that “Laredo’s future is rooted in collaboration, and today’s event demonstrates that spirit. When local government, workforce agencies, and economic leaders unite, we create meaningful change, supporting our workforce and uplifting our small businesses at the same time. It is an exciting time.” Cigarroa also commended the development of MileOne, which she described as an incubator that provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the support they need to succeed in launching their businesses.

Mr. Arnold Lozano, Economic Development Administrator for the City of Laredo, noted that National Economic Development Week is dedicated to recognizing the vital work that economic developers and their partners do to strengthen local economies, create jobs, and improve quality of life. He added, “I want to thank our partners—Workforce Solutions for South Texas, the Laredo Economic Development Corporation, and the team at The Outlet Shoppes at Laredo—for their collaboration. These efforts are a shining example of what happens when local government, business, and education leaders work hand-in-hand for the good of our community.”

Attendees at the press conference included Ms. Alyssa Cigarroa, City of Laredo Council Member for District 8; Cesar Hernandez, Chief Operating Officer for MileOne; Yvette Peña and Ana Laura Benavides from the LEDC; Rey Reyes and Joseph Mendiola, Vice President at the LEDC; Bertha Millan, Linett Alfaro, and Adriana Vela from WSST; Patricia Barrera, Project Director at WSST; and Gene Lindgren, Talise Development Manager and Board Member of WSST.

Shop Local & Job Fair Event

The Shop Local & Job Fair will begin at noon on Friday, May 16, 2025, with opening remarks from Mr. David A. Stedman, Sr.  The official ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 12:20 p.m., featuring remarks from WSST and LEDC leadership, who will highlight the importance of collaboration between business leaders, educators, and workforce agencies to strengthen the regional economy.

Following the ribbon-cutting, the event will officially open at 12:30 p.m. More than 25 employers will be on-site with job opportunities in a variety of industries, while over 20 local vendors will showcase and sell their products and services to the public. The event will conclude at 3:00 p.m. with the closing of all booths.

Everyone is invited to attend the Shop Local & Job Fair on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The Outlet Shoppes Event Center, second floor. This is a great opportunity to meet local employers, explore small business offerings, and support our regional economy all in one place.

 

*****

In a historic signing ceremony on Tuesday, United Independent School District (UISD), Laredo College (LC), and Workforce Solutions for South Texas (WSST) came together to announce the official launch of the BRIDGE Academy, a groundbreaking program designed to re-engage former students who left school before earning their high school diploma.

This life-changing initiative, approved by the Texas Education Agency, offers former UISD students ages 18-26 the opportunity to return to school at no cost. The new BRIDGE Academy goes beyond academics, it will connect students to career certifications, college pathways, and support services including childcare and transportation.

“As educators we worry or concern ourselves with students in grades K-12, but what happens with those students who don’t finish?” said UISD Superintendent, Dr. Gerardo Cruz. “There’s a segment in our population of students who don’t finish for various reasons, and we felt it was necessary to engage them, identify them, and bring them back so they can earn their high school diploma.”

Instead of returning to a high school campus, BRIDGE Academy students will take their high school courses at Laredo College South, where they’ll learn in a college environment and also have the opportunity to prepare for the workforce at the same time. Students can explore programs like Google Management, Safety/Warehouse, Business certifications, and even train as dental or phlebotomy assistants with the potential to pursue an associate degree if they choose.

“It’s going to be housed here at Laredo College South and so we are thrilled with this partnership,” said LC President, Dr. Minita Ramirez. “Ideally through this partnership, through their time here at LC South they are also going to get opportunities to get certified, licensed or get an associate’s degree in an area of their liking. Something that they want to do for the rest of their lives or at least an area of consideration to gain some success and prosper economically.”

Support from Workforce Solutions for South Texas will ensure students have fewer barriers as they restart their education journey. “We are here to offer childcare and transportation and hopefully make it easier and more manageable for these students,” said WSST Executive Dir., Rogelio Trevino.

For Fatima Rodriguez, a 23-year-old mother of two, the BRIDGE Academy was a surprise that quickly became a turning point. She had walked into Laredo College South hoping to get information about obtaining a GED. Instead, she found something she never expected. “I saw this unexpectedly,” Rodriguez shared after walking into the press conference. “I was like, what’s going on here and I started reading that and it said, ‘Didn’t Finish School?’ and I didn’t.”

Rodriguez left United South High School during her sophomore year, unsure if she’d ever return to finish her diploma. But Tuesday’s encounter changed everything. “It’s a very big sign for me, for anyone out there that hasn’t gotten their high school diploma. It’s a big day. It’s a big day for me today,” she said, visibly emotional. “There is divine intervention in everything we do and certainly she happened to walk in at the right time,” said Dr. Ramirez.

During the ceremony, board members from each organization were present to show support, including UISD Board Vice President Aliza Flores-Oliveros, LC Trustee Jackie Leven-Ramos, and WSST Board Member Dr. Angelica R. Sanchez, affirming the shared mission to uplift and empower.

“The great part about the program is that we will have flexible schedules, credit course recovery work and end of course assessments,” explained Dr. Cruz. “The journey is different for each student. Some of them are close to finishing, they may only need a few classes to complete. Whatever it is, we want them to know that UISD is here to support them and help them become successful individuals.”

Since the launch of BRIDGE Academy, more than three dozen individuals have already completed interest surveys to begin the enrollment process.

Interested former UISD students can get started today by calling the Executive Director for Non-Traditional Learning Environments, Cynthia Ramirez or Kristina Martinez, NTLE assistant at 956.473.2114, emailing ntleteam@uisd.net, or scanning the QR code on the flyer below.

(Press Release as shared by United ISD)

 

 

 

Laredo, TX – Monday, March 31, 2025 – Workforce Solutions for South Texas has released its latest labor market analysis, highlighting key employment trends in the Laredo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The report provides insights into job growth, unemployment rates, and industry performance, offering valuable information for job seekers, employers, and economic stakeholders.

According to the report, the Laredo MSA recorded an unemployment rate of 4.6% as of February 2025, reflecting an increase compared to the previous month. This trend aligns with broader state and national labor market shifts, influenced by economic developments in various industries.

“Our region continues to experience positive outcomes in specific sectors such as Leisure and Hospitality, and Professional and Business Services,” said Rogelio Treviño, Executive Director at Workforce Solutions for South Texas. “These insights help us tailor workforce initiatives to better support employers and job seekers alike.”

According to the Texas Labor Market Information from the Texas Workforce Commission, the Workforce Development Area (WDA) that includes Webb, Zapata, and Jim Hogg counties reported an unemployment rate of 4.7% during February 2025.

The Trade, Transportation, and Utilities industry, as well as the Education and Health Services industry, continues to represent almost 63% of all jobs in the tri-county area.

Workforce Solutions for South Texas continues to offer job placement assistance, skills training, and employer support programs to bridge gaps in the labor market and strengthen economic growth.

The Texas Labor Market Information (LMI) report for March 2025 is scheduled for release on Friday, April 18, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

For more information on workforce resources and employment opportunities in the Laredo MSA, please visit https://texaslmi.com.

****

Laredo, TX – March 27, 2025 – Workforce Solutions for South Texas (WSST), Child Care Services (CCS), and Texas Rising Stars (TRS) are proud to present Tiny Trails Safari, an engaging event dedicated to celebrating the Week of the Young Child. This special initiative highlights the importance of quality early childhood education and the valuable resources available to families in the community.

The event will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., in the Independence Hills Park, located at 1102 N. Merida Dr., Laredo, TX.

“We are thrilled to host Tiny Trails Safari as part of the Week of the Young Child,” said Bertha Millan, Workforce Development Supervisor at the South Texas Workforce Board. “This event underscores our commitment to supporting early childhood education and ensuring that families have access to essential resources.”

Tiny Trails Safari will offer an interactive and educational experience for young children, featuring guided activities. The event is designed to foster curiosity and learning through hands-on experiences.

“We created this event to raise awareness among parents about important child-related issues,” Noemi Pedroza, Child Care Services Program Manager, explained. “We’re making it fun and engaging, and we can’t wait to see the community join us.”

During the press conference, WSST officials shared insights into the significance of early childhood education and how programs like Texas Rising Stars support childcare providers in delivering high-quality learning experiences.

Millan added that this event will provide an opportunity to inform parents about high-quality childcare for their consideration when selecting care for their children.

Tiny Trails Safari will offer families educational activities, games, face painting, health information for children, music, and free explorer hats for the first 200 children.

Community partners attending are Lamar Bruni Vergara Environmental Center, ECI, Pillar, Gateway Community Health Center, Laredo Public Health, Laredo College, and H-E-B, just to mention a few.

“On behalf of H-E-B, we are proud to partner with Workforce Solutions for South Texas  for this year’s Tiny Trails Safari in support of their commitment to the Laredo community,” H-E-B said in a statement.

We invite families to join us for a day of fun, learning, and exploration at Tiny Trails Safari! Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to celebrate the Week of the Young Child with us.

For more information about Tiny Trails Safari, visit www.southtexasworkforce.org

Check the event on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/1AdHGg2drN/

 

LAREDO, TX – Tuesday, March 25, 2025 — Today, the City of Laredo, Laredo College, and Workforce Solutions for South Texas hosted a press conference to officially announce the Laredo Cares Spring ‘25 Job Fair, an upcoming event aimed at connecting job seekers with hiring employers in the region. 

The press conference, held at the Falcon Bank Executive Conference Room at Laredo College’s Fort McIntosh Campus, featured remarks from Dr. Minita Ramirez, President of Lared

o College; Mayor Dr. Victor Treviño, City of Laredo; and Mr. Rogelio Treviño, Executive Director at Workforce Solutions for South Texas.

They emphasized the importance of workforce development and economic growth, highlighting the opportunities this job

fair will provide for local talent and businesses.

Scheduled for Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Laredo Cares Spring ‘25 Job Fair will bring together employers from various industries looking to fill key positions.

Job seekers can access employment opportunities, career resources, and professional development support.

“This event is more than just a job fair; it’s a bridge to economic empowerment,” said Dr. Minita Ramirez. “We are committed to equipping our workforce with the tools they need to succeed.”

Mayor Dr. Victor Treviño echoed this sentiment.

Mr. Rogelio Treviño added, “At Workforce Solutions for South Texas, we are dedicated to ensuring job seekers have the resources they need to secure meaningful employment. This job fair is a testament to our ongoing efforts to strengthen the local workforce.”

• Event Details: Laredo Cares Spring ‘25 Job Fair
• Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
• Location: Maravillo Gym at Laredo College, Fort McIntosh Campus
• Time: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Laredo, TX – Friday, March 14, 2025 — The latest labor market report for the Laredo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) highlights continued employment growth despite the rising unemployment rate. In January 2025, the civilian labor force expanded to 120,905, an increase of 4,166 compared to the previous year. Employment also grew, with 115,654 individuals working—3,956 more than in January 2024.

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) released its monthly unemployment rate report today, reflecting shifts in labor trends across the region. 

However, the unemployment rate in Laredo rose to 4.3%, up from 3.7% in December 2024. This increase reflects seasonal employment shifts and broader labor market trends. Despite the rise, Laredo’s unemployment rate remains consistent with January 2024 levels and aligns with national trends.

Similarly, the unemployment rate in the WDA South Texas tri-county area also increased to 4.5%, up from 3.9% in December 2024.

Key industries driving employment include Trade, Transportation, and Utilities, the largest sector with 37,100 jobs. The Education and Health Services sector experienced the strongest annual growth, increasing by 5.5%, while the Government sector provided 25,000 jobs, reflecting a 2.0% year-over-year increase.

“The slight uptick in unemployment is not uncommon following the holiday season, but the long-term job growth in Laredo remains strong,” said Rogelio Treviño, Executive Director at Workforce Solutions for South Texas. “We are committed to supporting job seekers and employers as we continue to strengthen our local workforce.”

The Texas Labor Market Information (LMI) report for February 2025 is scheduled for release on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

For more information on workforce resources and employment opportunities in the Laredo MSA, please visit https://texaslmi.com.

Laredo, TX – March 11, 2025 — Workforce Solutions for South Texas (WSST) will host the Building Futures Together Job Fair to connect job seekers with employers actively hiring in the region. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Fernando A. Salinas Community Center, 512 Reynolds St., Laredo, TX.

The job fair is an opportunity for employers to meet and engage with individuals seeking employment. The event aims to support workforce development by facilitating direct connections between businesses and job seekers.

Thirteen employers will be present, offering 85 job openings across various industries. Participating employers include Blue Ribbon Staffing, Buckland, City of Laredo, Fuel America Travel Center, Jamco International, Magic Valley Concrete, Monarch Tracking, Morning Glory Providers, Recana, Sames Auto Arena, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, 20/20 Communications, and Weiser Security.

In addition to employers, five community service providers will be available to offer resources and assistance:

Astudillo Elite Truck Driver Training, Migrant and Seasonal Farm Worker Program, South Texas Food Bank, Texas Veterans Commission, and TWS – Vocational Rehabilitation Services.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the Workforce Virtual Station inside the community center. This station provides direct access to services from WSST’s main office on Jacaman Road, allowing residents to receive workforce assistance remotely.

Customer Service Representatives will be available to help job seekers update their resumes before meeting with employers.

The Building Futures Together Job Fair is made possible through the collaboration of WSST, Webb County, Commissioner Ricky Jaime, and his staff.

For more information, job seekers and employers can visit https://southtexasworkforce.org/event/building-futures-together-job-fair/

****

LAREDO, Texas — Workforce Solutions for South Texas (WSST) llevará a cabo su Feria Anual de Empleo “Hiring Red, White & You!” el jueves 14 de noviembre de 2024 en el Centro One-Stop, ubicado en 1406 Jacaman Road, Suite A, en Laredo, Texas.

Esta iniciativa de la Comisión de la Fuerza Laboral de Texas (TWC) tiene como objetivo conectar a los veteranos de Texas y sus cónyuges con empleadores que buscan activamente las habilidades únicas de los veteranos, miembros del servicio y sus familias.

El evento estará abierto al público y contará con más de 30 puestos de empleadores y proveedores de servicios de 10 a.m. a 2 p.m.

“Estamos sumamente agradecidos con nuestros veteranos por los sacrificios que han hecho al servir a nuestro país. Hoy disfrutamos de innumerables libertades gracias a su dedicación,” declaró Rogelio Treviño, Director Ejecutivo de Workforce Solutions for South Texas, en una rueda de prensa el viernes 1 de noviembre. “Si bien los veteranos traen consigo grandes habilidades y capacitación al volver a la vida civil, a veces enfrentan desafíos para conseguir empleo. Este evento tiene como objetivo facilitar esa transición y conectarlos con oportunidades significativas.”

La TWC informó que en su 12.º año (2023), la iniciativa Hiring Red, White & You! en Texas involucró a más de 2,178 empleadores y 11,574 buscadores de empleo, incluidos 3,620 veteranos, logrando más de 500 contrataciones el mismo día.

Treviño destacó que los empleadores participantes ofrecerán puestos con salarios sustanciales para apoyar la calidad de vida de los veteranos.

“Estos empleadores ofrecen trabajos con salarios que comienzan en $15 por hora o más. Queremos asegurarnos de que brindamos a los veteranos puestos que les permitan llevar una vida plena,” agregó Treviño.

WSST alienta a los buscadores de empleo a preinscribirse para acceder más rápidamente al evento. Los interesados pueden registrarse en bit.ly/hiringyou24 y recibirán una pulsera tras la confirmación por parte de un Representante de Servicio al Cliente.

Gabriel López, veterano y Subdirector del Programa de Liderazgo para Veteranos de Texas, destacó que los empleadores que contraten veteranos pueden ser elegibles para el Crédito Fiscal por Oportunidad Laboral (WOTC), lo que podría otorgar hasta $9,600 en beneficios fiscales federales al contratar veteranos de ciertos grupos calificados.

“Es una situación de beneficio mutuo,” afirmó López. “El veterano consigue empleo y el empleador se beneficia de los créditos fiscales.”

López también resaltó por qué los veteranos son excelentes contrataciones.

“La transición del trabajo militar al civil puede ser desafiante. Aunque los roles militares difieren de los puestos civiles, los veteranos aportan habilidades invaluables de liderazgo, organización y trabajo en equipo que los convierten en empleados ideales,” explicó.

Datos clave de la TWC sobre los veteranos de Texas:
Texas es el estado número 1 para negocios propiedad de veteranos y de mujeres veteranas.
Texas cuenta con 1.5 millones de veteranos, la población más alta de mujeres veteranas en cualquier estado.

Más de 22,000 miembros del servicio se trasladan a Texas anualmente después de completar su servicio militar.

Para más detalles sobre la 13.ª Feria Anual de Empleo “Hiring Red, White & You!”, visite el sitio web de la Junta de la Fuerza Laboral del Sur de Texas en www.southtexasworkforce.org o bit.ly/hrwy2024.