**90% of Tijuana Tech Graduates Employed in the Maquiladora Industry**
A significant 90% of graduates from the Tijuana Institute of Technology find employment within the city’s maquiladora industry, according to Artemio Lara Chávez, head of the institution’s Technological Section and Liaison. Lara Chávez highlighted that the industrial engineering program is especially in demand, boasting an enrollment of over 2,000 students.
Addressing the evolving needs of the industrial sector, the institute has introduced new engineering programs and specializations. This academic year, they launched courses in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity—both considered emergent technologies—as well as a production cost specialty for accounting students. A new medical products specialization, particularly sought after by the local industry, was also introduced.
Looking forward, the Tijuana Tech is planning additional programs tailored to the local industry’s demands, including the potential launch of a master’s degree in semiconductors. Lara Chávez noted a contraction in the industry this year, with an estimated loss of 16,000 jobs in 2024. However, they remain optimistic about recovery in the following year.
**Secondary News: Tijuana’s Industrial Sector Faces Challenges and Opportunities**
As the Tijuana maquiladora industry faces job losses, efforts are underway to navigate these challenges. The region anticipates a resurgence in job offerings by January, with significant attention given to exploiting emergent industry sectors.
One promising area is the advancement in nanotechnology, with local students actively pursuing solutions to reuse wastewater. Moreover, the city has increased inspections in maquiladoras, following incidents such as the accident at Prime Wheel. Officials are focusing on ensuring safety and compliance through these extraordinary inspections led by personnel from the Department of Labor and Social Welfare, along with the Environment and Sustainable Development Secretariat.
Elsewhere, Tijuana grapples with a variety of local issues. From the regularization of “chocolate” vehicles in Tecate to the occupation of a primary school by parents demanding in-person classes, the city is bustling with activity.
As the challenges in the maquiladora industry stabilize, stakeholders remain hopeful for economic recovery and growth, leaning on innovation and adaptation to sustain the sector’s pivotal role in Tijuana’s economy.