DALLAS, TX — The TEXO Foundation, the nonprofit workforce development arm of the TEXO Association, announces the inaugural launch of the Be Pro Be Proud Mobile Workshop in Texas. This initiative, supported by partners including Meta, Procore Technologies, the Dallas College Foundation, American Subcontractors Association North Texas, and Skanska USA, aims to reshape how students view careers in construction.
The North Texas construction industry faces a significant labor challenge. High school students often perceive construction as a last resort rather than a viable, rewarding first choice for their future. The Be Pro Be Proud Mobile Workshop is designed to bridge this gap by offering a unique, interactive experience that demystifies skilled trades.
The mobile workshop features advanced virtual reality and augmented reality simulators, allowing students to step into real-world construction scenarios — from operating heavy equipment and welding pipe to managing complex site tasks. By providing this interactive exploration, the program introduces students to diverse, high-growth career paths they might otherwise never consider.
"We have to do a better job of telling the story of these amazing career opportunities," said Meloni Raney, President and CEO of TEXO. "When you look at what’s happening with the Texas economy right now, it’s on the backs of construction."
This launch represents a significant investment in the future of the Texas workforce, backed by $1.7 million in funding from corporate partners, private foundations, and industry leaders. In its first six months, the program is set to engage more than 1,500 students at high schools throughout Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas.
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"Texas is building the infrastructure that will power America's AI future, and that work takes electricians, welders, and heavy equipment operators," said Tara Tenorio, Community Engagement Manager at Meta. "We've partnered with Be Pro Be Proud for three years to help grow that talent pipeline, reaching roughly 70,000 students nationwide. We're invested in Texas — from El Paso to Temple to Fort Worth — and excited to connect more students to these careers right here in North Texas."
Texas State Technical College, a key partner in this launch, shared the vision of expanding career access.
"Texas State Technical College is proud to champion the Be Pro Be Proud launch in Texas, as it perfectly aligns with our mission to place more Texans in great-paying jobs," said Marcus Balch, North Texas Provost of Texas State Technical College. "By bringing interactive, technical career exploration directly to communities, this initiative will inspire the next generation of skilled professionals and provide immense value to our state's rapidly growing workforce."
