Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas – South Texas College’s Construction Supervision program graduated its largest group of students during STC’s May commencement ceremony thanks in part to the continued efforts of faculty and the support of its partners in industry.
More than 25 students from the program received certificates and associate degrees earlier this month according to Construction faculty who say the program has more than doubled its course sections and has seen an 187% increase in growth over the same time period in 2024.
“This milestone is a testament to the strength and relevance of the Construction Supervision program. Graduating our largest class to date reflects not only the hard work of our students, but also the dedication of our faculty and the growing confidence of industry partners in the quality of our graduates,” said Construction Supervision Department Chair Javier Reyes. “These students are stepping into critical roles in the field, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished.”
Construction Supervision faculty also recently celebrated 20 of its students who received more than $7,000 in scholarships and tools.
LP Building Solutions awarded $5,000 to 14 students and Brex Commercial Door awarded eight tool kits, worth $250 each for a total of $2,000, to students earning their associate or certificate in the program.
“The Construction Supervision program has done such a great job and it’s evident that the program does everything it can for students,” said Ruby Melgoza, office manager with Brex.
“We like that we can be a part of that and to witness the increase of students who are looking to join this industry. It’s growing and we are glad to see that, and we look forward to seeing it continue to expand.”
Israel Medrano, faculty with STC’s Construction Supervision program said its partnerships with companies like Brex have led to more support for the program which in turn has led to an increase in apprenticeships as well as scholarships for students, which has piqued interest in the program.
“We’re working to continue the progress and meeting with our advisory partners to allow us to visit their job sites and enable internships for our students, which can then lead to full-time careers,” Medrano said. “This has led to more support for the program including scholarships for students. We continue to grow, and I have a lot of people who are still calling to partner with us, which is what the students need. It’s the students who need the help.”
STC student Jasson Alvarez said he graduated with a certificate in the Construction Supervision Program and looks forward to entering the industry with knowledge on running a job site.
“This program has become a great resource that has helped me learn how to run a job site and construction project as well as how to manage the people,” Alvarez said. “It’s all about where to go, how to build it and address mistakes, and most importantly learning how to work as a team to build something great.”
Another graduate, Jan Mireles said he will now takes his knowledge outside of the Valley in order to gain experience in the field before returning to STC in the future in order to learn how to establish his own roofing company.
“This program has helped me network as well as meet new people and learn new things that will help me in the field. I’ve had the opportunity to build while I was here, which has been the greatest thing as I look into what’s ahead in the future. We help each other in this program to get better,” Mireles said. “I prefer working in roofing because that’s what I’m good at. I would love to come back to STC in the future and continue my education. I would just like some experience in the field first. I would like to learn more about all the safety regulations that will help me with the roofing company I plan to start in the future.”
For more information on STC’s Construction Supervision program visit www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/construction/.
