PHARR, Texas — Manufacturing is taking center stage in the Rio Grande Valley, and local economic development leaders are doubling down on high-tech growth, cross-border partnerships, and regional collaboration to bring higher-paying jobs to South Texas.
Following a Manufacturing Day Summit co-hosted by the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) at the Pharr Global Business Hub, Pharr EDC President and CEO Victor Perez sat down with the Rio Grande Guardian to discuss the city’s economic momentum, emerging tech projects, and why regional unity is crucial for industrial success.
Held in celebration of Manufacturing Month in October, the summit brought together a wide array of stakeholders, including state representatives, county officials, school district leaders, and industry partners. Due to high demand, the event was live-streamed to allow regional businesses and community members to participate.
Perez emphasized that manufacturing remains a top priority for economic development organizations looking to transform local economies.
"They're the ones that have the higher-paying jobs. We know that for a fact," Perez said, noting that these roles require specialized degrees, certifications, and up-to-date training in rapidly advancing fields like artificial intelligence and automation.
A major focus of the roundtable was connecting prospective investors directly with educational institutions, including UTRGV, South Texas College (STC), Texas State Technical College (TSTC), and local school districts like Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD).
According to Perez, early workforce alignment is critical. High school freshmen in local Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are already gaining skills that lead directly to job offers before or immediately after graduation.
During the event, Perez teased significant economic momentum for Pharr, including a prospective $150 million project currently in development within the technology and manufacturing sectors.
While details remain confidential, the project builds on a growing track record of expansion in the city. Perez highlighted past successes, including cross-border growth with Technimark and assisting tech company Avant in securing a $48.5 million grant from the Texas Governor’s Office to expand operations locally.
"Companies are coming. They are contacting us," Perez stated, pointing out that Pharr’s strategy involves proactive infrastructure planning — working closely with utility providers like AEP Texas and local water suppliers well before prospective investors arrive.
Perez also highlighted Pharr's unique position as a binational hub. The Pharr Global Business Hub houses official presence and recognition from Mexican trade organizations, offering international investors a direct landing pad in the U.S.
The organization's efforts continue to draw state and national attention. Perez noted that the Pharr EDC team was heading to New Orleans to accept an award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) — their second recognition from the organization, alongside honors from the Texas Economic Development Council.
Addressing a key topic from a panel hosted earlier in the week at UTRGV’s Institute for Advanced Manufacturing in Edinburg, Perez reiterated his belief in a "regional first" philosophy when attracting industry to South Texas.
Whether a manufacturing firm chooses Pharr, McAllen, Edinburg, or Harlingen, Perez noted that a win for one municipality benefits the entire Rio Grande Valley workforce.
"It's regional. We're all one family, man. We're all one region," Perez said. "If a company comes in and is going to hire 300 to 500 people, they're not going to come from just one municipality. They're going to hire from all over."
Perez credited Pharr Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, the Pharr City Council, and the EDC Board of Directors for supporting a forward-looking vision that emphasizes long-term quality of life and higher wages for residents across the Valley.
"When you travel, I tell people: we have a gold mine," Perez said. "We have a young, capable workforce, a low cost of living, and the educational partners to train them. We just have to keep staying ahead of the game."
