Goodwill investing in the future of San Antonio’s workforce | CEO Column

September is Workforce Development Month, a time to reflect why investing in a strong workforce
development system is paramount to uplifting communities out of generational poverty.

The need in our city for job training is urgent. San Antonio ranks as the third poorest among the top
10 major U.S. cities, with more than 15% of our adult residents lacking a high school diploma or
equivalent – basic credentials often required for higher-paying careers. Meanwhile, local employers
struggle to find qualified workers for specialized roles.

To bridge this gap, Goodwill is expanding its training capacity with the Goodwill Opportunity Center.
Located in the heart of downtown, this future community hub will bring workforce training,
education, career services, and partner organizations together under one roof.

Scaling our career training capacity from 7,800 square feet to up to 84,000 square feet will allow
Goodwill to offer more fast-track career training programs leading to industry recognized credentials
and direct job placement in high-demand fields. Certifications in healthcare, manufacturing, and
construction are all slated to be included in our diverse program offerings.

To support student success both inside and outside the classroom, Goodwill will provide
individualized, high-touch support throughout each participant’s training journey. Success Coaches
will work with students to identify barriers, develop a plan for success, monitor progress and
coordinate with local community partners to address needs such as childcare, transportation, food,
housing, financial stability, and other barriers that could affect their ability to remain engaged,
complete training, and successfully transition into employment. All services will be provided at
no-cost to participants of the programs.

Once open, the Opportunity Center will serve as a beacon of hope, equipping more residents with
the skills to secure good-paying jobs that create generational change. Securing a high-wage job is
far more than a paycheck—it is the foundation for lasting social and economic mobility.

When individuals earn livable wages, they gain the stability needed to invest in their families’ health,
secure stable housing, and pursue higher educational attainment for the next generation. Breaking
the cycle of poverty transforms more than just single households; it injects financial stability directly
into our neighborhoods, reduces reliance on public assistance, and builds a resilient, self-sustaining
San Antonio for decades to come.

As we celebrate Workforce Development Month, we thank you for your ongoing support. Every
donation, store purchase, and partnership helps us build a workforce-ready San Antonio, equipped
to drive meaningful change for individuals and families of our community.

Read the original column here.