On February 24 at 4:30 p.m., Telemundo Houston interviewed Dr. María Franco Cortes of the Workforce Solutions, to discuss workforce trends shaping the region, particularly within the Hispanic community.
Dr. Franco emphasized that Workforce Solutions serves job seekers and employers across a 13-county Gulf Coast region and is currently seeing strong workforce activity. The Hispanic community continues to play a vital role in the region’s economic growth, with many individuals pursuing stable, high-growth career pathways while employers actively hire in key industries.
Growing Interest in High-Demand Careers
According to Dr. Franco, Hispanic job seekers are showing strong interest in:
- Healthcare
- Skilled trades
- Construction
- Transportation and logistics
- Energy and petrochemical industries
- Technology-related careers
Many individuals are also seeking short-term training programs that lead to industry-recognized certifications, allowing them to enter the workforce more quickly. Families are prioritizing careers that offer competitive wages, long-term stability, and clear advancement opportunities.
Trends Among Job Applicants
Workforce Solutions is observing several important trends across the region:
- More bilingual professionals entering career-track roles, providing a major advantage in a diverse economy.
- Increased interest in upskilling, with workers returning for additional certifications to transition from entry-level roles into higher-paying careers.
- More women are entering non-traditional fields, including skilled trades and transportation.
- Younger workers exploring technology and cybersecurity pathways, positioning themselves for future-focused careers.
These shifts reflect a workforce that is adapting to industry demands and preparing for long-term career growth.
What Employers Are Looking For
Across the Gulf Coast region, employers are actively hiring in healthcare, construction, advanced manufacturing, logistics, child care, and public safety.
According to Dr. Franco, employers are seeking dependable candidates with technical certifications, strong communication skills, and a willingness to continue learning. Bilingual professionals are especially valuable in many industries.
She emphasized that preparation and credentialing are increasingly important as industries become more specialized and competitive.
How Workforce Solutions Can Help
Dr. Franco reminded viewers that all services provided by Workforce Solutions are free. These services include career counseling, résumé assistance, interview preparation, job matching, and access to training scholarships for eligible participants. Workforce Solutions helps individuals identify in-demand careers and build clear pathways toward stable employment.
You can watch the full interview in Spanish here.
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