Texas Border Business
The Pharr City Commission has declared October 2024 as “Manufacturing Month” to recognize the vital role manufacturing plays in Texas’ economy. With over 24,000 manufacturing firms statewide, 362 in Hidalgo County, this sector contributes more than 11% of Texas’ total output, including $309.6 billion in exports in 2022. Manufacturing employs 7% of the Texas workforce, with 978,000 employees across the state and 7,000 in Hidalgo County.
Manufacturing in Reynosa, Mexico, also contributes significantly, with $35 billion in goods crossing through the Pharr International Bridge, representing 70% of total trade. Manufacturing also funds public services and provides well-paying jobs, with an average wage of $1,041 in Hidalgo County. Events throughout the month will showcase modern manufacturing and career opportunities, encouraging support for local products.
The proclamation was accepted by Victor Perez, President/CEO of the Pharr EDC, Mike Willis, Executive Director, South Texas Manufacturers Association (STMA), Karina Lopez, Economic Development Manager, Pharr EDC, Belinda Vargas, CTE Coordinator, PSJA ISD, and Rey Perez, Board Member, Pharr EDC. “This month is focused on educating our students, community, and industry about manufacturing and its importance to our economy,” said Mr. Willis.
The Pharr EDC, PSJA ISD, and STMA have partnered to host a Manufacturing Day event for PSJA ISD CTE students. They will have the opportunity to meet with companies from Pharr and the region that play a critical role in manufacturing.
