Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
McAllen, TX – The McAllen Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), in partnership with the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, has officially launched the Home to Texas internship program, welcoming its inaugural cohort of University of Texas at Austin students. This marks a strategic investment in developing McAllen’s future workforce by connecting college freshmen with meaningful, paid internships in their hometown.
As McAllen’s lead economic development organization, MEDC is co-leading the initiative alongside the University of Texas at Austin and the Texas Exes alumni association. The statewide program is designed to foster early career development, deepen students’ connection to their communities, and increase the likelihood that young professionals will return and contribute to their hometowns after graduation.
This summer, four UT Austin students—Riza Hernandez, Mariana Castillo, Lauren Perez, and Ana Garza—began their nine-week internships with MEDC and the McAllen Chamber. Their work will focus on priority areas, including economic development, business outreach, and workforce development, directly supporting ongoing efforts to improve McAllen’s business environment and economic resilience.
“The Home to Texas program presents a unique opportunity to highlight the depth and diversity of professional opportunities available in McAllen,” said Josh Vasquez, Director of Workforce Development at MEDC. “By engaging students early in their academic careers, we are building a stronger, more connected talent pipeline that supports the future of our local economy.”
Sharon Flores, representing Texas Exes, emphasized the long-term impact: “Many UT Austin students leave their hometowns for college and never return after graduation. Home to Texas allows students to rediscover the potential of their communities. Through our partnership with MEDC and the Chamber, we are helping bridge students back to McAllen by offering substantive, career-oriented experiences that benefit both the individual and the region.”
With the launch of the Home to Texas program, McAllen is taking a proactive step toward retaining top talent, reinforcing community identity, and supporting the region’s long-term growth and competitiveness.
