Press Release from SWTJC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                  4/30/24

UVALDE, TEXAS

Librado Rodriguez’s journey from being a student in the Southwest Texas Junior College Diesel Technology program to becoming an instructor is a testament to his dedication and passion for the field.

Born in Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico, Librado’s educational path took him to Eagle Pass, where he attended elementary through junior high. Rodriguez then went on to attend St. Anthony’s Catholic High School in San Antonio, where he graduated as part of the Class of 1998. That same year, he enrolled at SWTJC to begin his general studies.

Despite facing a temporary hiatus to support his family’s business, his determination led him back to SWTJC in 2005. In 2008, he proudly graduated with an associate degree in diesel technology, marking a significant milestone in his educational and professional growth.

Librado excelled in his academic pursuits and actively contributed to the diesel program as a lab assistant from 2006 to 2009, showcasing his commitment to the program’s success. His expertise and dedication to the field led him to a role as a diesel mechanic with the Eagle Pass Independent School District’s Transportation Department in 2009, where he continued to hone his skills and make a meaningful impact.

Librado’s journey reached new heights in 2013 when he seized the opportunity to become the shop supervisor within the school district’s transportation department, demonstrating his leadership and technical proficiency. His invaluable contributions and unwavering dedication caught the attention of SWTJC, which led to a career-defining moment when he was offered the position of instructor in the diesel technology program in the fall of 2023.

Rodriguez continues to inspire and guide the next generation of diesel technicians as an instructor, imparting his knowledge and practical experience to the students. His transition from a student to an instructor within the same program he attended is a testament to his expertise, passion, and the exceptional quality of education provided by SWTJC’s Diesel Technology program.

Librado’s remarkable trajectory exemplifies the program’s ability to shape and elevate careers in the diesel industry. His dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him an exemplary figure within the program and a source of pride for SWTJC.

About Southwest Texas Junior College
Southwest Texas Junior College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTJC has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The company’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

To learn more about SWTJC, visit swtjc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTJC Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtjc.edu.