Pharr EDC Wins 2025 Workforce Excellence Award from Texas Economic Development Council

The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) has been honored with the 2025 Workforce Excellence Award by the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) during its Mid-Year Conference, held on June 19 in Rockwall, Texas. This prestigious recognition highlights Pharr’s innovative leadership in workforce development and its impact on regional economic resilience.

Each year, the TEDC acknowledges Texas communities for outstanding workforce initiatives that demonstrate innovation, collaboration, and measurable long-term results. Pharr was selected as the top winner in the 40,001 to 100,000 population category, standing alongside other high-performing cities and regions across the state.

Addressing Workforce Gaps in Healthcare

Pharr EDC earned recognition for a high-impact healthcare training initiative developed under the High Demand Job Training (HDJT) Program. In partnership with Rio Grande Valley College and the Lower Rio Grande Valley Workforce Development Board, the EDC launched a project aimed at reducing critical healthcare workforce shortages by targeting underserved communities.

The initiative combined local economic development funds with matching support from the Texas Workforce Commission, enabling the training of approximately 50 students in high-demand medical fields, including Vocational Nursing, Pharmacy Technician, and Medical Assistant programs.

“We are honored to be recognized for tackling workforce challenges with bold, innovative solutions,” said Ricardo Medina, Pharr City Commissioner and EDC Board Member. “By tapping into the potential of our people and creating pathways to opportunity, we are building a workforce that is ready to grow with Pharr.”

Strengthening the Regional Talent Pipeline

The program’s core objectives included expanding access to training, strengthening healthcare talent pipelines for regional employers, and building long-term capacity through upgraded infrastructure and instructor support.

“This award is a testament to the hard work of our Pharr EDC team and our shared commitment to creating real economic and workforce opportunities,” said Victor Perez, President & CEO of Pharr EDC. “We’re deeply grateful to our partners who believed in this initiative and helped us bring it to life. We are proud to serve our community and continue building a stronger future for Pharr.”

About TEDC

The Texas Economic Development Council is the largest statewide association of economic development professionals in the United States, with more than 1,050 members. Its Workforce Excellence Awards are among the most respected honors recognizing local leadership in workforce development and innovation across Texas.