Today marks 25 years with the McAllen Economic Development Corporation.
When I look back on this journey, I realize how many people believed in me long before I fully understood where this path would take me.
I’ll always be grateful to Mike Allen, former President & CEO of the McAllen EDC, for taking a chance on me and hiring me as an Administrative Assistant to work alongside Susan Valverde and Eddie Gonzalez in business recruitment. That opportunity changed my life.
I learned so much from Susan — preparation, follow up, attention to detail, and what true client care looks like. Mike also invested his time in mentoring me. He took me to Border Trade Alliance meetings, economic development trips across the U.S. and Mexico, and meetings with Governors, Senators, Congressional leaders, investors, and industry executives. Watching how he carried himself, how he genuinely cared about people and the work we do, taught me lessons I still carry today.
When Keith Patridge became CEO, another chapter of learning began. Keith taught me about the maquiladora industry in Reynosa — who the companies were, what they manufactured, who they supplied, and how to truly listen to industry needs. More importantly, he taught me that economic development is about helping companies find a path forward that benefits not only the business, but the people and communities we serve.
Most recently, our transition under Elizabeth Suarez and the McAllen Chamber brought another opportunity for growth. Liz gave me the opportunity to serve as COO for the organization when, in the eyes of many, I may not have even been on the radar for that role. I’ll always appreciate the trust and confidence she placed in me.
I’m also incredibly grateful to my wife and son, who have supported the long hours, time away, late calls, travel, and the many work initiatives that come with this profession. Their love, patience, and support through the years have meant more to me than they will ever know.
Twenty-five years in economic development is not easy. It requires constant learning, adapting, relationship building, and understanding that every conversation matters. You become the listener for CEOs, managers, shop employees, entrepreneurs, and individuals simply looking for a good-paying job to support their families.
The wins matter because they create opportunity for the community. And when you don’t get the win, you regroup, refocus, and start again with the same goal — to help build something better for the people you serve, for your family, and for yourself.
I’m grateful for the road I’ve traveled. Grateful to still be here in the middle of it all. Humbled to be part of one of the best economic development teams in one of the best cities in Texas.
Twenty-five years later… still learning, still working, still believing in what we do.
Truly blessed and grateful.
Editor’s Note: The above commentary was penned by Ralph Garcia, chief operating officer for McAllen Economic Development Corporation. The commentary first appeared on Garcia’s social media pages.
