01 Jul McAllen Economic Development Corp: COSTEP Workforce Development Initiatives in South Texas

Posted at 19:36h in News Archive by COSTEP

The South Texas region has opportunities for families, businesses, and the committed workforce that call it home. At COSTEP, workforce development is an essential component in the mission of sustaining economic growth in any region. Workforce development is critical in South Texas because it can leverage the region’s strategic position and economic potential. Suppose the region’s workforce receives the support it needs; not only will it have a steady supply of skilled workers. In that case, it will improve its ability to attract businesses and nurture economic growth. Learn more about the way COSTEP supports workforce development.

Committed to the South Texas Workforce

We have been at the forefront of workforce development initiatives in South Texas. We believe in the power of innovation, which is why our approach is data-driven and market-validated. Our methods focus on creating a robust talent pipeline to support long-term economic growth. This involves addressing current workforce needs while anticipating future industry requirements.

Workforce development is not a one-size-fits-all undertaking. It requires the ability to shift and adapt to meet enterprises’ needs. We prioritize customization and collaboration throughout the Rio South Texas region.

Leveraging the Texas Skills Development Fund

The State of Texas has long supported global skills development with world-class training through the Texas Skills Development Fund. This fund underwrites the design and implementation of tailored job training for projects that meet requirements. Texas Workforce Solutions offices, in collaboration with training teams at community colleges, are tasked with dispersing the funds, further ensuring local businesses fill their ranks with highly qualified personnel.

A Pipeline by South Texas for South Texas

One of the most significant advantages and resources the South Texas region offers is the incredible pipeline of talented workers it creates. This is the primary reason why we prioritize enhancing collaboration between businesses and educational institutions. By taking a proactive approach through partnerships, we ensure training programs are optimized to fit the needs of local businesses.

From the moment students advance through K-12 schools and take advantage of the contributions made by leading higher education institutions, they are shaping their careers and the region’s future in equal parts. Some of the leading higher education contributors in the area include:

University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley
Texas Southmost College
South Texas College
Texas State Technical College
Texas A&M
Texas A&M International University
Laredo College
Benefits for Businesses

By partnering with us, South Texas businesses can experience many benefits. First, companies can see enhanced productivity, innovation, and overall business performance through workforce development efforts. By filling their positions with highly skilled workers, companies can experience reduced training costs and increase employee retention rates.

As previously mentioned, we are strong advocates of growth and innovation, which translates to the region’s business landscape. By establishing a pipeline of skilled workers, businesses can rest assured that their investments in new technologies and processes will be supported by a capable workforce.

How Much Do You Want to Grow?

At COSTEP, workforce development is one of the pillars of economic growth, capable of benefiting workers and businesses alike. We anticipate continuing economic development in the region through close collaboration among the workforce, educational institutions, various industries, and government if you want to learn more about your role in our region’s growth.

Integrating Key Industry Sectors

To support sectors such as Rio Grande Trade and International Transport Logistics Brownsville, TX, COSTEP provides specialized training programs designed to meet the specific needs of these industries. The McAllen Economic Development Corp and Brownsville Navigation District are vital partners in these initiatives, helping to shape a workforce that can excel in both local and international markets.

McAllen Economic Development Corp and Strategic Infrastructure

The Brownsville Matamoros International Bridge and Mission International Bridge play crucial roles in facilitating trade and transport, reinforcing Brownsville’s status as a key logistics hub. Our initiatives also align with the infrastructure developments at the Brownsville, Texas, international bridge, ensuring businesses can leverage these assets for maximum operational efficiency. Additionally, international bridges in Laredo serve as critical connection points, further enhancing the region’s economic landscape.

By incorporating these elements, we continue to drive economic prosperity and workforce development in South Texas, ensuring that the region remains a prime location for business growth and investment.

Tags:

international bridges laredo, Mcallen economic development corp

08 Mar Cost of Living

Posted at 19:49h in by COSTEP

Cost of Living

Expansive quality and opportunity at enviably lower costs.

Rio South Texas gives residents plenty of space to grow, with abundant available land, wide-ranging opportunity and more room in family budgets thanks to the region’s attractive costs of living, as a Salary.com sample comparison* shows:

Chicago Costs

Brownsville: 32.7% lower McAllen: 33.6% lower Laredo: 29.9% lower

Phoenix Costs

Brownsville: 26.4% lower McAllen: 27.4% lower Laredo: 23.3% lower

ATLANTA COSTS

Brownsville: 22.8% lower McAllen: 23.9% lower Laredo: 19.6% lower

LOUISVILLE Costs

Brownsville: 15.2% lower McAllen: 16.3% lower Laredo: 11.6% lower

PITTSBURGH COSTS

Brownsville: 18.1% lower McAllen: 19.2% lower Laredo: 14.7% lower

* Based on $50,000 salary

Also, cities in this region offer lower costs in comparison to the rest of the state: Out of the top 10 low-cost cities in Texas, three spots are claimed by Rio South Texas cities: McAllen at #10, Laredo at #4 and Brownsville at #2, according to Better Homes & Gardens Homecity.com.

Lower Costs and Richer Life with The McAllen Economic Development Corp

Best of all, the significant cost savings in this region come with inviting quality. Our neighborhoods are attractive and welcoming and our healthcare services are patient-centered. Rio South Texas also adds affordable quality while expanding opportunity with advantages such as high-performing public schools. In 2019, Laredo’s high schools had a four-year graduation rate of 94.5%, McAllen’s had a 97% graduation rate, and Brownsville’s Early High School graduation rate was 100%.

The region’s bountiful recreational and cultural opportunities also enrich life without denting budgets. Families enjoy free access to resort quality beaches at destinations like South Padre Island and Port Isabel Beach. State parks are another great source for adventure and fun, at Falcon State Park where the Falcon International Reservoir is an angler’s delight; at Lake Casa Blanca International State Park and Lake Casa Blanca; and at the birding havens of Resaca de la Palma State Park and Estero Llano Grande State Park. Rio South Texas is also home to art and history highlights on the Texas Tropical Trail.

With the help of the McAllen Economic Development Corp, lower overall costs, along with assets in education and recreation, mean dollars go further here, and families can put down stronger roots for a life of great quality and opportunity.