1/29/26

  Southwest Texas College recognized the Powerline Program Class of 2025 during a graduation ceremony Jan. 8 at the Briscoe Auditorium on the Uvalde campus. The event honored students who completed an intensive workforce training program that prepares graduates for high-demand jobs in the utility and powerline industry.

Program and Participants

The ceremony followed a formal order of events that included a welcome message, keynote address, presentation of certificates, presentation of the Cauy Routh Scholarship and closing remarks. Kristel Sanchez, director of Workforce Training and Development, delivered the welcome, presented certificates and gave the closing remarks.

  April Ruhmann, vice president of academic affairs, served as keynote speaker, and Powerline Program instructor Rodolfo Ballesteros presented the Cauy Routh Memorial Scholarship.

  Graduates recognized were Silvestre G. Alvarez, Jacob N. Arzola, Jacqueline Briones, Julian A. Cantu, Zachary De Leon, David D. Jimenez, Adrian J. Longoria, Brandon M. Mendoza, Nathan Morris, Benjamin P. Puerta, Austin R. Reyes, Luis E. Sanchez and Luis A. Trinidad. During the program, students also earned OSHA 10, CPR and forklift certifications and worked toward completion of a commercial driver’s license. PHOTOS

  Graduate Perspectives

  Briones, the third woman to complete the Powerline Program, spoke about the perseverance required to finish the training. “Today I stand here with a heart full of pride and gratitude. There were nights I went home exhausted, sore and overwhelmed, wondering if I was asking too much of myself — but I kept showing up, and today I’m here,” she said.

  She added that she is pursuing a career in a field where women are still underrepresented. “I wanted to be a linewoman in an industry where women are rarely seen. That dream felt big and intimidating, but it also felt right — I love the adrenaline, the challenge and the growth this field brings.”

  Puerta, recipient of the Cauy Routh Memorial Scholarship, told attendees he is thankful for the support that is helping him enter the powerline workforce. “I’m really deeply grateful and honored to stand here today as the recipient of the Cauy Routh Scholarship. Receiving this scholarship is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I sincerely thank those who made this opportunity possible,” he said.

  He said the scholarship will have a direct impact on his career plans. “The financial support provided through this scholarship will play a vital role in helping me prepare for a career in the powerline industry. It not only supports my goals, it empowers students like myself to pursue a future rooted in hard work, dedication and service.”

Community Support

The college recognized Workforce Solutions Middle Rio Grande and Motivational, Education and Training (MET) for their ongoing support of the Powerline Program and assistance with student tuition. Sanchez also thanked the Cauy Routh family for its continued sponsorship of the program’s scholarship, noting the impact of its contributions on students’ ability to complete training and enter the field.

 College officials said the ceremony highlights Southwest Texas College’s broader role in workforce training and development across the region. Through partnerships with employers and community organizations, the Powerline Program helps students gain skills needed to maintain critical electrical infrastructure and keep communities connected.

  About Southwest Texas College
Southwest Texas 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 SWTX 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 SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.