After two decades operating in the Rio Grande Valley, Emerson Tool Company faces a new workforce challenge: finding employees with the technical skills needed to keep pace with changing industrial technology.

The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC), led by President and CEO Victor Perez, hosted a Manufacturing Day Roundtable on October 22, 2026, at the Pharr Global Business Hub.

Growing demand for skilled workers, increasing automation, and competition for manufacturing investment are challenging the Rio Grande Valley’s industrial expansion, according to government, business, and education leaders who gathered in Pharr to discuss how the region can prepare for new industries and emerging technologies.

Attracting manufacturers is only part of building the Rio Grande Valley’s industrial economy. Developing skilled workers, adapting to emerging technologies, and strengthening industry partnerships are equally important, Lilvette Santos, economic and business development director of the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC), told regional leaders during a Manufacturing Day Roundtable.

The Pharr Global Business Hub is expanding workforce development efforts through a “Skills to Certification” program offering training in blueprint reading, estimating, workplace safety and preparation for the electrical journeyman examination.

The Pharr Economic Development Corporation hosted “Celebrating Heritage Beyond the Border: The Economic Power of the U.S.-Mexico Relationship” on Sept. 17 at the Pharr Global Business Hub as part of Hispanic Heritage Month.

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Pharr Global Business Hub will host Celebrating Heritage Beyond the Border: The Economic Power of the U.S.–Mexico Relationship on Thursday, September 17, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) is partnering with Electra XD to bring expanded bilingual workforce training and certification opportunities to the City of Pharr and the greater Rio Grande Valley.

The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) has earned international recognition after receiving a ranking from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for its Pharr Global Business Hub Partnership Initiative.