Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
A spark of opportunity is lighting the way for Edcouch-Elsa Independent School District (EEISD) students as the first dual credit welding cohort, in partnership with South Texas College Dual Credit Programs, launched this fall semester at the college’s Mid-Valley campus.
The program spans four semesters and gives Edcouch-Elsa High School juniors the chance to earn both college credit and industry recognized certifications.
Students will graduate with a Structural Welding Certification and the American Welding Society’s (AWS) Sheet Metal Welding Code (AWS D0.1) Certification.
These credentials are highly valued by employers and give students a competitive edge in the workforce while also laying the foundation for advanced training.
Associate Vice President for Dual Credit Programs and School Partnerships Rebecca De Leon, Ph. D., said this milestone reflects a shared vision between the college and EEISD.
“This partnership with Edcouch-Elsa ISD reflects our shared goal to open more doors of opportunity for students,” she said. “By starting their college coursework in high school, these dual credit students gain both academic momentum and hands-on experience that prepares them for success. Welding is a high-demand career and our program prepares students to obtain industry-based credentials that are recognized by employers and experts in the field. We are proud to see this first dual credit cohort set the foundation for future welders from EEISD.”
For students, the experience is both exciting and transformative, as it equips them with the hands-on skills that directly connect to high-demand careers, empowering them to envision a future beyond high school with greater confidence and opportunity.
Leonardo Murillo, a junior at Edcouch-Elsa High School said this opportunity is allowing him to challenge himself.
“I’m really excited to learn something new in a professional setting,” he said. “This is my first time on a college campus, and I know the experience can help shape my future. I don’t come from a welding background, but I wanted to take this course to challenge myself and try something new.”
Cipriano Vidana, also a student at Edcouch-Elsa High School, expressed how the program connects to his career goals.
“I’m excited to for the certifications I will earn that will allow me to pursue a career as a rig welder in the oil fields after high school,” he said. “This program gives me the chance to explore opportunities beyond the Rio Grande Valley.”
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director at Edcouch-Elsa High School Lydia Gonzalez notes the lasting impact of this new pathway.
“These industry-recognized certifications will allow our students to enter the workforce immediately with competitive skills and give them the foundation to pursue advanced training or higher education if they choose. For Edcouch-Elsa ISD, this partnership represents our ongoing commitment to expand career pathways, meet regional workforce demands and equip our students with the knowledge and confidence to succeed beyond graduation.”
The launch of the welding cohort marks a significant step in the ongoing partnership between STC and local school districts, ensuring students graduate career-ready, confident and prepared to lead in high-demand industries.
Information source: STC
