The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has been awarded the 2025 Workforce Excellence Award by the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC), recognizing its innovative efforts to address regional workforce needs.
The award, presented during TEDC’s 2025 Mid-Year Conference in Fort Worth, highlights Pharr EDC’s strategic initiatives designed to expand career opportunities and improve labor force development in South Texas.
“We’re honored to receive this recognition,” said Victor Perez, President and CEO of Pharr EDC. “Our programs are built on strong partnerships with local school districts, colleges, and industry, helping to prepare residents for high-demand jobs and support long-term economic growth.”
Pharr EDC’s approach includes targeted workforce training, certifications aligned with industry needs, and direct collaboration with employers to close skill gaps. The TEDC cited the organization’s measurable results and scalable model as key factors in its selection.
The Workforce Excellence Award celebrates exceptional contributions in building a qualified workforce, a critical factor for business attraction and retention across Texas. According to TEDC President & CEO Carlton Schwab, “Pharr EDC’s work is a strong example of how local strategies can drive statewide progress.”
This recognition comes as Texas continues to prioritize workforce development, with the state seeing a record 14.1 million jobs in early 2025, according to the Texas Workforce Commission. Pharr’s efforts contribute to this momentum by aligning economic development goals with workforce readiness in a rapidly evolving job market.
