TEEX study shows dynamic job growth across South Texas

Looking for work? South Texas is calling.

A recent study found a burgeoning demand for skilled workers across the region, including welders, pipefitters, CNC operators, quality control (QC) technicians and more.

The growth of job opportunities and the rebound of the manufacturing sector are among the findings that will be discussed at the South Texas Economic Competitiveness Conference on May 6, at the Convention Center in Cotulla, Texas.

Researchers studied the 15 Texas counties below the Nueces River, an area historically known as the Nueces Strip.

The 18-month study centered on the competitive opportunities for jobs, attraction and expansion of the manufacturing sector, and methods for expanding the supplier base across the region. It was conducted by the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) in cooperation with the U.S. Economic Development Administration.

“Major changes are underway in South Texas beyond just the tremendous impact of the Eagle Ford oil and gas activity, including job demands and manufacturing opportunities,” says TEEX economic development expert John Adams, who led the study.

In addition to Adams, other speakers include Dr. Barry Lawrence, Director of the Global Supply Chain Laboratory at Texas A&M University, and Dr. Harold Hunt of the Texas A&M Real Estate Center, who will discuss supply chain connections in South Texas and the trends and opportunities in the Eagle Ford Shale.

Economic consultant Tom Stellman, President of TIP Strategies, will discuss the skills gap in Texas manufacturing. Additional speakers will address how to bring business to South Texas and future opportunities at the Port of Brownsville.

The conference begins at 10 a.m., May 6, and is free and open to the public.