La Joya, TX - In a major step forward for career readiness and workforce development, La Joya ISD’s Juarez-Lincoln High School has officially launched its first student apprenticeship program in partnership with South Texas College through its Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeship (CATA) program.
Recently, 12 students from Juarez-Lincoln High School participated in an industry-based orientation at Crawford Electric, marking the beginning of a hands-on learning experience designed to connect classroom instruction directly to high-wage, high-demand careers.
Through the Construction Technician Apprenticeship Pathway, students will receive both classroom instruction and on-the-job training in the electrical and construction fields. The program is structured to provide industry-aligned curriculum, safety training, and real-world application - allowing students to begin earning hours toward electrical apprenticeship licensure while still in high school.
The launch of the program includes the implementation and demonstration of safety presentations led by safety experts in the field, followed by hands-on station rotations in pipe bending, wiring devices, and pulling wire. Students worked alongside professionals, gaining practical insight into the skills and standards required in the field.
“This is career-readiness in action,” said Pablo De Leon, Director of Career & Technical Education for La Joya ISD. “Our CTE Department is focused on creating pathways directly from the classroom to high-wage, high-demand careers. Through this partnership, students are gaining labor-market direct opportunities, hands-on training on actual job sites, and the chance to begin working toward electrical apprenticeship certification.”
The apprenticeship model includes two essential components: classroom-based instruction aligned with South Texas College curriculum and structured, supervised field experience with industry partners including Zitro Electric and Crawford Electric. Students will have the opportunity to earn continuing education hours and college credit toward a Level One Certificate while building workforce experience.
“This is an introduction for students to see how it is to work in the field and hear from professionals about their experiences,” said Marisol Chavez, Apprenticeship Manager at South Texas College. “We want to provide students with hands-on opportunities so they can start their careers with confidence. Partnerships like this are rare, and we are grateful for La Joya ISD’s commitment to giving students real-world experience.”
For La Joya ISD, the initiative reflects a broader commitment to expanding career pathways and strengthening opportunities for Empowered Graduates - Priority 2 of the district’s strategic plan. It also advances Priority 4 - Community Trust, Unity, & Partnership - by building meaningful collaborations with higher education institutions and industry leaders to create real-world opportunities that directly benefit students and the local workforce.
“This partnership is essential for our students to develop true workforce-ready skills,” De Leon added. “They are not only learning in the classroom - they are applying those skills in real labor environments. That experience opens doors beyond graduation.”
By investing in meaningful partnerships and hands-on learning, La Joya ISD continues to ensure students graduate not only with diplomas, but with direction, credentials, and confidence for the future.