Classroom to Commerce: The Economic Power of Education in the Rio Grande Valley

Education is a cornerstone of economic growth, shaping the workforce and driving regional prosperity. Classroom to Commerce: The Economic Power of Education in the Rio Grande Valley, presented by the Institute for Leadership in Capital Projects (I-LinCP), will explore how education and industry partnerships are preparing students for the future and strengthening the region’s economic landscape.

This engaging program will bring together leaders from higher education, K-12, and vocational training institutions to discuss workforce readiness, skill development, and the role of public-private partnerships in fostering long-term economic resilience.

Join us again in the Rio Grande Valley as we explore the transformative impact of education on workforce development and economic growth in the region.

Featured Speakers & Panels

Keynote Speakers:

• Dr. Ricardo Solis, President, South Texas College
• Dr. Guy Bailey, President, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)

Panel 1 – The K–16 Education Ecosystem
Exploring how collaboration across K–12, community colleges, and universities is preparing students for academic and career success.

Moderator: Brian Godinez, CEO, ERO Architects

Panelists:

• Paul Rodriguez, Board Member, South Texas College

• Ron Garza, Senior Associate Vice President, Governmental & Community Relations, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)

• Dr. Daniel King, CEO, Region One Education Service Center (K–12)

Panel 2 – Career & Technical Education Driving Growth
Focusing on the role of technical and vocational institutions in building a skilled workforce and meeting the demands of a growing economy.

Moderator: TBC

Panelists:

• Eladio Jaimez, Provost, Texas State Technical College (TSTC), Harlingen

• Dr. Stella E. Garcia, Vice President of Institutional Advancement/Chief of Staff, Texas Southmost College (TSC)

• Daniel Silva, Executive Director, South Texas Vocational Technical Institute  

Discussion Topics:

• Strengthening the talent pipeline and preparing students for in-demand careers

• The role of higher education, technical training, and K–12 education in workforce development

• How public-private partnerships are creating new opportunities for students and professionals

• Strategies for addressing workforce shortages and bridging skill gaps

Program Agenda

11:00 AM - 11:45 - INVITATION ONLY - Pre-lunch for Speakers and Sponsors

11:00 AM - General Audience Check-in and Networking

11:45 PM - General Audience Lunch Begins

Noon - Program Start 

2:00 PM - Closing

Thank you to Our Sponsors!

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SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!

Supporting (Unlimited): $250, Incl. 1 registration and event marketing recognition

Partner ( 2 of 4 available): $500, Incl. 2 registrations, 1 seat at the pre-lunch with Sponsors and Presenters, and event marketing recognition

SOLD! Collaborator (Exclusive): $750, Incl. 3 registrations, 1 seat at the pre-lunch with Sponsors and Presenters, event marketing recognition, and introduce firm 

SOLD! Title (Exclusive): $1,000, Incl. 4 registrations, 2 seats at the pre-lunch with Sponsors and Presenters, event marketing recognition, introduce organization, introduce UTRGV presenters.

BECOME AN ANNUAL SPONSOR TODAY AND BE RECOGNIZED IN PROGRAMS LIKE THIS ALL YEAR LONG!