Photos courtesy of Western Tech. These images capture the joy, determination, and the beginning of a promising journey for graduates of the S4S Program.
About STEP
Introducing STEP: Skills Training for Employment Pathways
Empowering Talent. Bridging Opportunity. Transforming the Borderland.
The STEP program—born from STTE’s Skills for Sustainability (S4S) initiative—is revolutionizing workforce development in the U.S.–México border region. Designed to close the gap between underutilized talent and high-demand industries, STEP seeks to deliver focused, hands-on training aligned with real job opportunities. Our approach? Start with employers, forecast hiring needs, and train individuals for success.
Why STEP Matters
Communities like El Paso face persistent challenges: high underemployment, limited access to career pathways, and a growing demand for skilled workers in emerging sectors. STEP directly addresses these barriers by providing flexible, bilingual education and guaranteed job interviews upon completion—offering real solutions to real problems.
A Proven Model with Real Results
In just 18 months, over 100 adults graduated from STEP’s pilot program, ready to meet workforce demands. Participants received specialized training, industry-aligned certifications, and crucial soft-skills coaching—all tailored for working adults from diverse and underserved backgrounds.
Insights
- Employer Feedback on Custom Training – improved preparation through remedial education and flexible scheduling.
- Participant-Employer Engagement at Enrollment Fairs – increased retention.
- Intermediary Adult Education &a Literacy Partner – higher enrollment success rate.
- Diversity in the Workforce – the program attracted women to enter traditionally male dominated job occupations at plants.
Fueling Growth Through Partnerships
We work hand-in-hand with respected employers, training institutions like Western Tech, and global partners. These collaborations ensure our program remains innovative, impactful, and deeply connected to evolving workforce needs.
Scaling for Impact
As we scale STEP across the border region in 2025–2026, we remain laser-focused on results: career-ready graduates, satisfied employers, and a thriving regional economy. With each new cohort, STEP advances economic mobility, strengthens community infrastructure, and keeps pace with changing industry demands.
Interested in Partnering, Participating, or Supporting STEP?
Whether you’re an employer seeking skilled talent, a community member ready to launch your career, or an organization that wants to help us scale—we want to hear from you.
If you are an industry employer contact STTE by calling (915) 465-4683 to learn how you can join the STEP movement.