By Pete Vasquez
Pvasquez@cherryroad.com

Jim Wells County Judge Pete Treviño Jr. joined state and local leaders this week at the Ribbon Cutting & Open House for the new Javelina Skilled Trades Academy at Texas A&M University–Kingsville (TAMUK) — an exciting initiative aimed at closing workforce gaps and preparing Coastal Bend residents for high-demand careers.

“It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your Jim Wells County Judge, and I am especially grateful for the opportunity to participate in this event,” said Judge Treviño. “This program is a crucial step toward solving workforce shortages and creating new career pathways in our region.”

The Javelina Skilled Trades Academy offers hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications in vital fields such as electrical work, carpentry, and pipefitting. It’s designed to empower students — both young and adult learners — with practical skills that translate directly into the job market.

Supported by local leaders, educational partners, and organizations like Lone Star Strategy Group, LLC, the academy reflects a growing movement to reinvest in skilled trades as the backbone of the Texas economy.

“We are proud to back initiatives that prioritize workforce development through real-world learning,” said Treviño. “It’s all about opening doors for our residents and strengthening our communities.”

Representatives from Lone Star Strategy Group, LLC also expressed their enthusiasm for future collaborations with the TAMUK Training Academy, aiming to bridge the gap between employers, educational institutions, and job seekers across South Texas.

With a renewed focus on career-ready education, the academy is poised to become a key contributor to economic growth and individual opportunity throughout the Coastal Bend.