Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
McAllen ISD students entering a new high school career pathway this fall will participate in the Dual Credit Academic Pathways 2026 Bridge Orientation on Wednesday, July 29, from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. at South Texas College’s Technology Campus in McAllen.
The orientation is designed to help incoming ninth-grade students transition into McAllen ISD’s new P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High) program, which prepares students for careers in the electrical and construction industries.
Approximately 50 students will participate in presentations, team-building activities, and a tour of STC’s Technology Campus, located at 3700 W. Military Highway. The event will introduce students to the program’s expectations while helping them build relationships with classmates and staff. Activities are intended to strengthen collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and the confidence needed to succeed in a college- and career-focused environment.
Launching this fall, McAllen ISD’s P-TECH program is a Texas Education Agency-approved college and career readiness model that integrates high school, college coursework, and workplace learning. The program is designed to equip students with the academic, technical, and professional skills needed for in-demand careers.
The program will be housed at Rowe High School, where students will begin their coursework before transitioning to South Texas College’s Technology Campus during their sophomore year. Through the district’s partnership with STC, students will have the opportunity to earn a tuition-free Level 1 industry certification in either Electrician Technology or Construction Supervision while completing dual credit courses.
Students will also participate in work-based learning experiences that connect classroom instruction with real-world industry applications.
The initiative aims to address the growing demand for skilled workers while giving students a direct pathway to industry-recognized credentials and high-paying careers in the construction and electrical trades. McAllen ISD, South Texas College, local employers, and the district’s Facilities, Maintenance & Operations Department will work together to provide hands-on training and prepare students for success in the workforce.
