SER National Welcomes 2024 as a Milestone and A New Opportunity for the Future
As we stand on the threshold of a new year, SER Jobs for Progress, Inc. is not just marking the advent of 2024; we are heralding the dawn of a new era of possibilities, potential, and progress. We now celebrate the 60th anniversary of our journey defined by service to others and look forward to the transformative impact we will continue to make in the years ahead.
In the tapestry of time, our sixty years of dedication and commitment have woven a narrative that transcends generations. Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO, expresses the historical significance of this moment: “As we celebrate sixty years of service, employment, and redevelopment, we are reminded that times have changed from generations past. The labor market now demands workers with higher levels of education and knowledge skills in technology.”
Our commitment to bridging the educational divide is unwavering. In response to the evolving demands of the workforce, we proudly offer comprehensive classroom and distance-based instruction through our Cisco Networking Academy and Amazon training programs—empowering men and women across the nation to embrace the power of innovation for the benefit of themselves, their families, and their communities.
Mr. Salazar emphasizes, “Looking forward, automation and artificial intelligence will replace 80 percent of the jobs where people make less than $20 per hour. The lack of mobility and employment opportunities has created a breeding ground for political hostility and social ills. We will be there with solutions and training opportunities that offer hope and new career opportunities.”
In an age where the rapid evolution of technology is reshaping the employment landscape, SER National recognizes the urgency of preparing individuals for the challenges ahead. Salazar asserts, “When jobs disappear, society falls apart. When a community truly disintegrates, knitting it back together becomes a herculean task. Virtue and cohesion—the stuff of civilization—are tough to restore. That is why we are doubling down on our training and retraining efforts.”
Understanding that investing in the future starts with nurturing our youth’s potential, we echo Frederick Douglass’s sentiments: “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men and women.” With an emphasis on early childhood education and Head Start efforts, we are sowing the seeds of resilience, knowledge, and empowerment.
As we embark on the next decade of our journey in 2024, we affirm our commitment to innovation and adaptability. Salazar affirms, “We will continue to develop new programs and initiatives that meet the needs of an ever-changing workplace while addressing the needs of individuals with greater barriers to self-sufficiency.”
Salazar concludes, “Much remains to be done—but one thing remains clear: after 60 years, the need for SER is greater than ever. We stand at the cusp of a new chapter, where we reimagine the future and lead the way into a new era of discovery and accomplishments for the betterment of all.”
As we welcome 2024 with open arms, SER National invites all stakeholders—partners, collaborators, and the broader community—to join us on this path toward a future where education, employment, and redevelopment create a brighter and more brilliant future for all we touch. Happy New Year!
