Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Texas Southmost College Construction program alumnus Fernando Garcia realized years ago that if he wanted his construction company, Yireh Remodeling and Construction, to grow, he had to go back to school. Today, Garcia’s business is thriving and he credits the knowledge he gained at TSC for his company’s success.
“I learned what I needed for my own business through TSC’s Construction Technology program,” said Garcia, who graduated from TSC in 2016. “It really helped me out. I had my business before going to TSC, but I wanted to learn and gain more experience so that I could provide my customers with additional, quality construction options.”
The 34-year-old entrepreneur learned about general construction on the job. He eventually became skilled enough to venture out and start his own company. However, in addition to the desire to grow his business, Garcia wanted to earn a degree in his field.
“I wanted my business to grow,” he said. “But I also wanted to improve my resume and to have something for myself, as a back-up plan or in case I need something later on.”
Married with three children, Garcia returned to school while juggling family, classes and a business.
“I had to deal with work, my job and going to college,” he said. “I tried to divide up my time. Once I finished my classes in the morning, I would focus on work in the afternoon. My wife and kids had to wait for me until I came home.”
Although it wasn’t easy, he enjoyed his college experience at TSC.
“My instructors were great and provided me a good experience,” said Garcia. “They would make sure we’re learning. I really liked dealing with the numbers and practical portion of the program, trying to figure out estimates and measurements. It helped me to be more accurate in cost estimates and construction materials. The whole experience made me feel more confident in myself.”
Garcia values the time he invested in himself and his business at TSC. Now his business is more successful than ever before despite the economic downturn across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It was worth it. I learned a lot at TSC and my business benefited,” he said. “I’ve been blessed with a lot of work and I’m really busy. People are taking advantage of low interest rates and refinancing their homes or getting loans to make additions or to remodel.”
For more information about TSC’s Construction Technology program, call 956-295-3543 or email daniel.zuniga@tsc.edu.
About Texas Southmost College
Originally established in 1926, Texas Southmost College currently offers the first two years toward a bachelor’s degree, along with career and technical education leading to certificates and associate degrees, college preparatory studies to prepare students for college-level work, workforce training, and continuing education. TSC offers 50 programs of study leading to an associate degree or certificate.
