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By Roberto Hugo González | Texas Border Business
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The City of McAllen is taking an innovative approach to workforce development by partnering with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and local businesses to create new opportunities for students and small enterprises. During his presentation at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce’s Government Affairs Series, City Manager Isaac J. “Ike” Tawil outlined how these collaborations are shaping the city’s economic future.
“We are constantly trying to come up with new ways to invigorate this community,” Tawil said. “When we identify a challenge, we look for solutions that benefit both local businesses and students preparing to enter the workforce.”
A recent example, according to Tawil, began with a phone call from a local restaurant facing economic challenges related to tariffs and changing market conditions. Rather than responding with a short-term fix, city leaders developed a strategic partnership with UTRGV’s Robert C. Vackar College of Business and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. Together, they created a program where university students work directly with local retailers to enhance business planning, budgeting, and marketing strategies.
“What a tremendous opportunity to help the retail community develop their marketing plans and budgets, while allowing students to engage in a real-world exercise,” Tawil said. “They get firsthand experience of what it’s going to be like when they graduate, and businesses gain fresh ideas and professional guidance.”
Tawil also emphasized the importance of expanding collaboration with higher education institutions beyond retail. He highlighted ongoing discussions with Texas A&M University at Tres Lagos to strengthen programs in health-related fields, including pharmacy, nursing, and public health. “Investing in our students and the youth of this community is priority number one for me,” he said. “We must ensure that McAllen’s workforce is ready to support the industries of the future.”
The city’s strategy includes identifying sectors with long-term growth potential and ensuring local training programs match employer needs. Health care, technology, and logistics are among the areas being targeted for workforce alignment. “The world is primed to come here,” Tawil said. “Technology and industry are investing in South Texas, and we have to be ready with a skilled workforce.”
Local leaders believe the city’s collaborative approach gives McAllen a competitive edge. “This kind of partnership between city government, universities, and business leaders is exactly what drives sustainable economic growth,” said Nick Rhodes, CEO of Rhodes Enterprises, which sponsored the event.
Tawil concluded by reaffirming his belief that innovation and education are central to McAllen’s continued success. “We create opportunity when we invest in people,” he said. “By helping our students and businesses work together, we’re building the workforce of the future—right here in McAllen.”
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