Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas – A new partnership between the Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeships (CATA) at South Texas College, La Joya Independent School District and regional industry leaders is creating a pipeline from the classroom to the jobsite for local high school students.
Twelve students from La Joya ISD recently visited Crawford Electric Supply in Mission as part of CATA’s Construction Technician Apprenticeship program, which is enabling the students to receive training as well as onsite job experience, industry certifications and paid work-based learning with Zitro Electric while still in high school.
Carlos Margo, Ed.D., dean for CATA at STC, said the initiative demonstrates the power of partnerships that align education with industry needs. By connecting education, industry and workforce development, the program is helping students gain confidence, skills and a clearer vision for their future, he said.
“CATA served as the facilitator to bring everyone together and make this a reality,” Margo said. “Students are not just watching videos or sitting in a classroom. They are experiencing real work and understanding how businesses operate through paid, work-based learning. We want them to see what real-world work is about by getting to touch, feel and experience firsthand what it means to be a part of this industry.”
La Joya ISD Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director Pablo De Leon said the initiative with CATA reflects a growing focus on preparing students for high-wage, high-demand careers through meaningful workforce experiences.
“By partnering with STC and industry leaders like Zitro Electric and Crawford Electric Supply, we are providing students a great opportunity to gain experience and earn certifications that will open doors for them in the future,” De Leon said. “Our hope is that they see there are so many opportunities available to them, and this is only one of many doors that can open if they complete the program and take advantage of these experiences.”
Industry partners say early exposure to the skilled trades is key to building confidence and interest in careers that offer stability and growth.
Crawford Branch Manager Jesus De La Cruz said he encourages students to embrace the learning process and take pride in the profession.
“Being an electrician is a very rewarding and honorable job,” De La Cruz said. “We want them ask questions and not be afraid to learn. We all started somewhere, and they should never feel embarrassed if they don’t know something. That’s how you grow.”
CATA Apprenticeship Manager Marisol Chavez said the Construction Technician Apprenticeship program is designed as an entry-level pathway meant to combine classroom instruction with field experience.
Students will receive foundational training in safety and construction fundamentals before transitioning to part-time work with industry partners.
“This is an introduction for them so they can see what it’s like to work in the field and hear from professionals about their experiences,” said Chavez. “It’s a great opportunity for students to start their careers early and continue building toward future training or academic programs.”
For more information about CATA visit, southtexascollege.edu/cata/.
