San Antonio expands Ready to Work program to support 2532 new employees

San Antonio's Economic and Workforce Development Committee recently highlighted significant advancements in the "Ready to Work" program during their meeting on March 25, 2025. The initiative aims to enhance employment opportunities for residents by providing training and support for hard-to-fill job positions.

The program has successfully engaged 2,530 workers, with a total investment of $5.9 million allocated to 77 employers. Participants can earn wages while receiving on-the-job training, which is crucial for their professional development. Notably, 1,379 new employees have been trained, with many earning an average of $20 per hour.

The committee also approved funding for 28 small businesses, which will receive a total of $1.4 million to support their hiring efforts. This funding is designed to incentivize employers to hire participants from the program, ensuring that they are ready to enter the workforce with the necessary skills.

However, some committee members expressed concerns regarding the program's effectiveness. Councilman White raised questions about the retention rates and career advancement of participants, emphasizing the need for more data on long-term outcomes. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that the investment translates into sustainable employment and professional growth for workers.

Despite these concerns, program leaders defended the initiative, citing that many participants have successfully secured jobs and are gaining valuable skills. They assured the committee that follow-up assessments would be conducted to evaluate the long-term impact of the training on participants' careers.

As San Antonio continues to invest in workforce development, the "Ready to Work" program stands as a pivotal effort to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers, fostering economic growth and stability in the community. The committee's ongoing discussions will be crucial in refining the program and ensuring its success in the future.