Building a Binational Talent Pipeline for the Rio South Texas Region

On September 10, 2026, the Binational Higher Education Advisory Council convened at the Port of Brownsville, bringing together leaders in higher education, workforce development, economic development, and industry from the Rio South Texas Region and Northern Tamaulipas.

Hosted at the Port of Brownsville, the in-person meeting opened with welcoming remarks from Guillermo Rico. Adam Gonzalez of COSTEP introduced the session and recognized the higher education institutions from both sides of the border in attendance.

Alma Saldana Cruz presented on behalf of the Rio South Texas Region, outlining COSTEP’s role in the initiative and sharing the design of the Binational Higher Education Data System. The proposed system is designed to strengthen cross-border collaboration and provide regional leaders with the information needed to support strategic decision-making.

The agenda also focused on the workforce opportunities associated with Saronic’s new Port of Brownsville facility. Port representatives introduced the company and discussed anticipated workforce needs, while the Greater Brownsville Economic Development Corporation (GBEDC) led a conversation on how regional universities can help develop relevant talent and training programs.

The meeting brought together a common set of priorities:

• Strengthening collaboration among higher education institutions in Rio South Texas and Northern Tamaulipas
• Using shared data to support informed binational planning
• Preparing students and workers for emerging advanced-industry opportunities
• Aligning university and training programs with the needs of employers in the region

As the Rio South Texas Region continues to grow as a center for trade, manufacturing, logistics, innovation, and advanced technology, partnerships among education, industry, and economic-development leaders will remain essential.

RSTR is proud to help advance the relationships and regional conversations that build a stronger, more prepared, and more competitive binational workforce.