What We Do Overview
We work with individuals living in El Paso County to start, continue, and complete a degree or credential for an in-demand career. More often than not, these individuals qualify as:
- low-income
- minority
- first-generation college student
- single parent
- veteran
- unemployed/underemployed adult
Using an intensive case management and 360 wrap-around support service program, our attentive case managers assess the individual needs of each participant and coordinate support and resources — such as tuition assistance, exam fees, or childcare — to fit their needs and goals. When participants complete their education, we job place them in a position that aligns with their goals and skills and continue checking in for the first year to ensure job retention.
A fundamental part of our mission to train participants for in-demand careers and job place them in the regional workforce. We work with local employers to evaluate current workforce needs and emerging occupations and opportunities. We currently focus on training and placement for these in-demand career paths:
- Registered Nurse (B.S.N)
- Registered Nurse (A.D.N)
- Licensed Vocational Nurse
- Physical Therapy Assistant
- Radiology Technician
- Respiratory Care Technology
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Computer Programming & Web Development
- Telecommunications & Networking, (Network & Computer Systems Administrators)
- Information Technology
- Computer Systems Analysts
- Diesel Mechanic
- Welding
- Medical Lab Technician
- Surgical Tech
- Echocardiography
- Education Majors in areas of STEM (UTEP)
Our comprehensive approach to assessing the labor market, job development, and employer recruitment also requires an awareness of shifts in technology, business legislation, and industry changes. Our case managers do a tremendous job of staying on top of this ever-changing information and cultivating strategic partnerships with local employers. To date, we have successfully placed our program graduates with 65 different employers in the region.
Project ARRIBA empowers residents of the Paso del Norte region by training them for high‑skill, high‑wage careers that strengthen both families and the regional economy. According to a recent economic impact study conducted by the Hunt Institute for Global Competitiveness, Project ARRIBA has generated $1.17 billion in economic value for the El Paso region in the form of increased future earnings from program graduates.
Since its inception, Project ARRIBA has supported nearly $42 million in total investment, demonstrating exceptional returns for the community. This investment has produced a cumulative benefit‑cost ratio of $28 for every $1 invested, underscoring the program’s effectiveness as a driver of upward mobility, workforce development, and long‑term regional competitiveness.
