by Ileana Martinez | Feb 13, 2025 | News & Updates
As we observe Presidents Day, SER National honors the enduring legacy of our nation’s leaders, particularly George Washington. A timeless example is his lifelong commitment to diligence, responsibility, and meticulous attention to detail.
“Quality training and workforce development are at the heart of SER’s mission,” says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO of SER National. “We are helping to meet the demands of America’s evolving job market and cultivating a more productive and fulfilled workforce. Training programs that focus on skill mastery, discipline, and personal growth ensure that workers perform better and find greater satisfaction in their roles. That drives our economy forward,” says Salazar
The SER Network of Affiliates is dedicated to exemplifying and imparting these values through comprehensive training and workforce development programs that foster a culture of excellence and perseverance. Washington was known for leading by example and setting high expectations for himself and those around him. These are the same principles we strive to embed in the individuals we serve—ensuring they succeed in the workplace and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
“As our nation refocuses on bringing more manufacturing and technology sectors back to the United States, Presidents Day reminds us of the exemplary leadership that has shaped our country,” says Salazar. Our workforce remains strong and competitive by upholding these standards. Investing in people begins with producing high-quality goods or services, developing groundbreaking innovations, and sustaining a robust workforce. They can meet today’s challenges and lead tomorrow’s industries,” he adds.
A recent survey revealed that 94% of employees would remain with their current employer if it invested in their long-term learning and development. Companies that have invested in employee development have seen a 58% increase in retention rates. This data underscores the importance of equipping individuals with the right skills to thrive in a competitive job market. By providing structured training, career pathways, and ongoing education, SER and its affiliates ensure that workers are employable and capable of excelling and advancing in their careers.
Salazar states, “Washington’s leadership reminds us that every role, no matter how big or small, adds to the tremendous success of our nation. Just as he meticulously planned and executed strategies with great attention to detail, we can approach our work with the same commitment. The path forward is clear: through training, education, and dedication, we not only honor the legacy of our nation’s great leaders but also build a future where prosperity is within reach for all.”
by Ileana Martinez | Jan 30, 2025 | News & Updates
SER National observes Black History Month by reaffirming its commitment to workforce development and training that uplifts all communities, including the extraordinary contributions of Black Americans. As a national leader in workforce development, SER National recognizes the economic and cultural vibrancy that Black Americans bring to our nation and highlights the shared responsibility of embracing this legacy for a brighter future.
In keeping with the 2025 Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor,” SER National reaffirms its dedication to advancing economic opportunity, celebrating diversity, and fostering collaboration that honors the contributions of every individual.
Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO of SER National, underscores the importance of honoring Black contributions through action. “Black History Month is not only a time to reflect on the profound sacrifices and achievements of Black Americans but also to invest in initiatives that ensure equal access to opportunities,” Salazar said. “The SER Network of Affiliates works tirelessly to equip individuals with the tools needed to succeed in today’s competitive workforce. Together, we celebrate the legacy of African Americans and their labor that will continue to inspire for generations to come.”
Black Americans play an essential role in the U.S. economy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Black workers accounted for 13.1% of the total labor force in 2024, contributing across industries from healthcare and technology to arts and education. Moreover, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Black-owned businesses generate more than $200 billion in annual revenue, underscoring their critical role in driving economic growth and innovation.
The SER Network of Affiliates operates nationwide to deliver training programs, career services, and job placement initiatives that promote upward mobility for all Americans. These programs embody the ideals of Black History Month by fostering collaboration in labor in communities across the United States.
“At SER National, we are reminded daily of the strength and resilience of Black Americans whose contributions have shaped our nation’s history and economy,” Salazar added. “Through education and workforce development, we honor this legacy by empowering individuals to achieve their fullest potential while enriching the communities they serve.”
In observance of Black History Month, SER National encourages every individual to take time to learn, engage, and act. This can include supporting Black-owned businesses, mentoring young professionals, or participating in community events that amplify Black voices. By doing so, we strengthen the ideals of equality and unity that define our nation’s future.
by Ileana Martinez | Jan 16, 2025 | News & Updates
In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, SER National joins the nation in reflecting on Dr. King’s enduring vision of equality, justice, and opportunity. As we celebrate his profound contributions to civil rights, we also recommit ourselves to fostering workplaces where everyone thrives, inequities are dismantled, and every individual has the chance to succeed.
“Dr. King showed us that nonviolence and unity can transform societies and dismantle injustice,” says SER National’s President and CEO, Ignacio Salazar. “His message inspires us to illuminate minds through education that opens doors of opportunity; also, that we empower each other to uplift our lives through learning and initiative. SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates are dedicated to honoring Dr. King’s vision of creating pathways for individuals of all backgrounds to achieve their full potential. Nothing is more powerful and instills more self-dignity than acquiring skills and knowledge that allow us to realize our individual dreams,” says Salazar.
The theme for this year, “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365,” serves as both a call to action and a guidepost for our work in 2025. Inspired by Dr. King’s principles of nonviolence, we are committed to addressing systemic inequities and building what he envisioned as the “Beloved Community,” a society where opportunity is abundant, and justice prevails.
Our progress as a society is significant, yet the journey toward fulfilling Dr. King’s dream remains ongoing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the representation of Black Americans in management-level positions has risen to 9.1%, a notable improvement from 7.6% in 2010. However, gaps persist, particularly in STEM fields, where Black and Latino workers collectively make up just 16% of the workforce despite accounting for nearly 30% of the U.S. population (Pew Research Center, 2023). These disparities remind us of the work that is still ahead to create genuinely inclusive opportunities for all.
SER National recognizes that achieving such a vision requires actionable steps. Across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our affiliates equip underserved workers with training, certifications, and resources. We empower individuals daily to overcome barriers and thrive in today’s competitive workforce. Moreover, fostering inclusivity within organizations—from adopting skills-based hiring practices to providing advancement opportunities—is essential to building a workforce that reflects the rich diversity of our nation.
“As we honor Dr. King’s legacy, let us remember that progress is not inevitable but is achieved through the concerted efforts of individuals, communities, and organizations working together,” says Salazar. “By uniting our strengths and remaining committed to equity and opportunity, we can fulfill his vision of an America where justice and dignity are within reach for all,” he says.
Today, as we celebrate Dr. King’s life and legacy, let us be inspired to carry forward his mission in words and meaningful actions that ensure every worker has a fair chance to contribute to and benefit from our nation’s prosperity. Together, we can make his dream a reality.
by Ileana Martinez | Dec 30, 2024 | News & Updates
As we reflect on 2024, we feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the extraordinary strides made by La Familia de SER. Across the United States and Puerto Rico, the SER Network of Affiliates has touched over a million lives, empowering individuals with the tools, training, and opportunities to thrive in today’s dynamic and fast-paced economy.
“We are witnessing one of the most exciting periods in business training and workforce development in the history of the United States,” says Ignacio Salazar, President &CEO. “Together, we are harnessing the newest, latest, and fastest technologies as swiftly as we discover and understand their infinite potential. This is a time when innovation and opportunity intersect, and we are committed to ensuring that the present and future generations have the skills to meet the demands before us,” he adds.
Through innovative programs and commitment, SER National has helped individuals secure meaningful employment, achieve financial independence, and create brighter futures for their families. The ripple effect is profound: parents provide better opportunities for their children, communities experience economic uplift, and businesses gain access to skilled, confident, and resilient workers. This is the power of workforce development; it creates opportunities where they did not exist, builds pathways to success, and strengthens the very fabric of our society.
Salazar adds, “As we prepare for the coming year, SER National is thrilled to announce plans to grow our future tech training and skills development offerings. Building on the stellar success of the Cisco Academy IT certification program, we are accelerating our efforts with two new globally recognized brands in career employment partnerships. Stay tuned for official announcements on these game-changing initiatives that promise to reshape the workforce landscape!”
We stand on the brink of a transformative era. Future jobs will demand the capacity to absorb, interpret, and apply vast amounts of data at unprecedented speeds. The remarkable expansion of data centers nationwide speaks volumes about America’s technological prowess and thirst for knowledge. With construction surging 70% over the past year, the demand for data processing, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing services is fueling economic growth and redefining workforce needs.
In this context, SER National is not just responding to the changes but leading the way. 2025 will also be a year of unprecedented opportunity as the convergence of data, ideas, and implementation builds at a rate never before seen in human history. The future belongs to those ready to adapt and lead. SER National is proud to stand at the forefront of this transformative moment.
“Let us look to the future and be inspired by the bright road ahead, filled with promise and possibility,” says Salazar. “Together, we will continue to empower lives, build futures, and shape a nation where innovation and enterprise drive success for all. This is our commitment to our stakeholders and our pledge to one another. I wish you a joyous and happy new year!”
by Ileana Martinez | Dec 24, 2024 | News & Updates
As we celebrate this joyous holiday season and reflect on the past year’s blessings, we are incredibly honored to mark a milestone in our journey—60 years of service and impact. Since 1964, SER Jobs for Progress National, Inc. has remained dedicated to uplifting communities across the country through workforce development, education, and job training. What began as a local initiative to empower Latino communities has become a national movement that provides hope and opportunity to more than one million people every year.
“The holiday season is always special to me because it is a time to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the wonderful privilege of serving with La Familia de SER,” says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. “Over the years, I am continually reminded of how vital our work is and how it will always have a place in America—this land of opportunity where limitless possibilities are realized daily. On behalf of SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates, we thank every team member, sponsor, and community partner for making these past 60 years possible. Together, we look forward to many more milestones to come.”
The work of the SER family is rooted in a belief that access to education and job opportunities can transform lives. Workforce development not only transforms individual lives but also fosters economic equity, strengthens communities, and contributes to a more inclusive labor market, helping to bridge gaps in opportunity that persist across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic lines. Programs like those offered through the SER Network of Affiliates help level the playing field, creating pathways to success for individuals, families, and future generations.
As we gather with loved ones during this memorable time of the year, let us remember the power of intention, community, and service. “We each have a purpose in our lives,” says Salazar, “and those of us who are involved in helping our fellow human beings achieve their full potential are truly blessed by our calling and our spirit of sharing. May we, during this celebration season, be thankful for living in a country of bounty and opportunity for all.”
From all of us at La Familia de SER, we wish you a peaceful, joyous holiday season and a New Year filled with renewed hope, purpose, and opportunity, ¡Feliz Navidad!
by Ileana Martinez | Nov 27, 2024 | News & Updates
As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, we at SER National and our dedicated SER Network of Affiliates pause to reflect on the profound blessings of opportunity, community, and shared purpose that enrich our lives. This year carries special meaning as we mark 60 years of empowering individuals and transforming lives through workforce development and training.
“Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and expressions of appreciation,” says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. “At SER National, we come together with a special sense of thankfulness that we live in a country abundant with opportunity. Every life, every person, and every program matters. What makes the people within SER so extraordinary is that they put their heart and soul into what they do every day.”
Founded in 1964 as Service, Employment, and Redevelopment (SER), by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and the American GI Forum, SER was created to address systemic barriers faced by underserved communities in accessing employment and educational opportunities. From its inception, SER has championed the mission of equipping individuals with the tools to achieve financial independence and upward mobility. Today, through its extensive network of affiliates, SER continues to embody this legacy, transforming lives and strengthening communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.
Participants in workforce programs experience an average earnings increase of 20-30% over three years, directly improving financial security for families. Workforce development initiatives reduce unemployment rates by an average of 5%, contributing to a stronger, more competitive labor market. A report from the National Skills Coalition notes that middle-skill jobs, which require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree, make up 52% of the U.S. job market, yet only 43% of workers are adequately trained. Programs like SER help bridge this gap, aligning skills with demand and driving economic growth.
These outcomes reflect the enduring relevance and necessity of SER’s work. Our programs are not only catalysts for individual success but also for strengthening the economic fabric of our nation. From teaching new skills to workers adapting to shifting industries to supporting those embarking on entirely new career paths, SER ensures that no one walks their journey alone.
The 60-year milestone we celebrate this year is a testament to the vision of SER’s founders, who understood that workforce development is essential for unlocking potential and fostering equality. Their legacy endures in the stories of millions whose lives have been touched and transformed through SER’s programs.
“As we celebrate, let us be mindful of the shared strength that comes from working together,” says Salazar. “On this Thanksgiving, may we all be mindful of each other and how we are better and stronger together. Over the past 60 years, we have grown by embracing unity and will continue to carry out the important work ahead. May you spend this day with your family and friends in celebration and peace.”
From all of us at SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates, we wish you a warm and joyous Thanksgiving. Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey of empowerment and progress.
