Industry Clusters
Manufacturing and Related Activities
- Targeting this industry cluster capitalizes on the region’s existing manufacturing strength
- Automotive suppliers represent a specific target within manufacturing due to the presence of Toyota in south San Antonio and automotive-related maquiladora operations in neighboring Matamoros and Reynosa
- The region’s position as a distribution hub—which has been strengthened tremendously by new trade routes
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Healthcare
- Healthcare employment has skyrocketed in the Valley adding 23,000 jobs in the industry between 1999 and 2004
- Besides creating a demand for healthcare workers, the specific medical needs of the population have made the Valley a target for government-funded research
- The presence of major medical institutions and local partners such as the Rio Grande Valley Allied Health Training Alliance (led by the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement) further supports the selection of healthcare as a target for WorkFORCE Solutions
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Business Services
In addition to cutting costs for existing businesses, the presence of a strong business services sector is an important asset in the recruitment of new companies
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Retail and Hospitality
Rapid population growth is typically followed by rapid growth in retail and the Valley has proved no exception. The built-in market created by Mexico, coupled with the area’s tourist and “Winter Texan” population, generate additional retail demand above that of the existing population. While the retail and hospitality industries are dominated by low-wage jobs, they provide an important stepping stone to more skilled occupations.
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Homeland Security & Law Enforcement
The presence of the Texas-Mexico border, coupled with security measures implemented in the wake of 9/11, make this cluster a candidate for continued growth
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Construction
- From the standpoint of workforce investment, construction is a sound target
- Continued population growth in the region should ensure continued demand for workers
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(Workforce Solutions TIP Strategies, 2004)
