Texas Border Business
The Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeships (CATA) at South Texas College continues its workforce-driven initiative designed to help construction professionals “earn while they learn” as they advance into leadership roles.
CATA is set to launch the next cohort of its Construction Superintendent Apprenticeship Program Feb. 23. Classes will be held on Mondays from 6 to 9 p.m. offering flexibility for working professionals.
“We are going to have a new apprenticeship for construction superintendents starting this month and then we will have cohorts ongoing almost every two to three months after that,” said Marisol Chavez, CATA manager at STC. “This is for people who are already employed in the construction sector who are looking to upskill for leadership roles. It’s a refresher on everything they need to better manage projects on the job.”
The hybrid apprenticeship, developed through a partnership between CATA, the Associated General Contractors of America – Rio Grande Valley Chapter and regional industry partners provides employees already working in construction the opportunity to complete a four to six-month instructional certificate while accumulating 2,000 hours of on-the-job training required for a journeyman certificate by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Since its launch in 2022, the program has partnered with more than 40 construction companies across the Rio Grande Valley. Approximately 280 participants have completed the instructional component, and 113 apprentices have fully completed both classroom instruction and required job hours to receive their certificate of apprenticeship.
An additional 100 participants are currently working toward completing their on-the-job requirements, according to Chavez, who said the apprenticeship model benefits both employees and employers by strengthening retention and creating structured pathways for advancement.
“Apprenticeships create retention because employees feel that companies are investing in them and their growth,” Chavez said. “Companies can pair entry-level workers or those ready to move up with experienced mentors. That transfer of knowledge builds leadership from within.”
The apprenticeship is currently supported by a grant from the Department of Labor that covers tuition, textbooks and required resources for eligible participants. Apprentices must also be employed in a construction-related field.
Companies new to CATA partnerships are welcome to participate.
Instruction is led by industry professionals like Lydia Rodriguez, a project manager who brings real-world experience into the classroom.
“The Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeships has tailored a specialized cohort designed for individuals committed to growing and advancing their careers in construction,” Rodriguez said. “This program focuses specifically on preparing participants to become construction superintendents.”
Coursework in the program includes blueprint reading, construction management and leadership. Students receive in-depth training on critical project documentation, learning what documents are required and specific project manuals necessary to successfully complete a project.
“The information taught isn’t just theory,” Chavez said. “It’s practical and immediately applicable in the field.”
While the next cohort begins this month, Chavez said that CATA maintains continuous start dates throughout the year.
“This is a great opportunity for companies and employees looking to elevate their knowledge,” she said. “We work closely with employers to create a curriculum that meets industry standards and provides the resources needed for long-term success.”
For more information about apprenticeships offered by CATA, visit southtexascollege.edu/cata/ or contact Apprenticeship Navigator Christabel Jasso at 956-872-6307 or cgalleg4@southtexascollege.edu.
