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.
by Ileana Martinez | Nov 8, 2024 | News & Updates
On this Veterans Day, SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates across America honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of the millions of veterans who have served the United States throughout its history. Veterans exemplify selflessness and commitment to protecting our freedoms and values. Today, we commemorate their past service and recognize their continued impact as community leaders and contributors to our nation’s progress.
“Veterans are the foundation of our nation’s strength—not just through their service in uniform, but through their ongoing roles as mainstay employees, professionals, mentors, and role models in their communities,” says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. “We eagerly encourage and welcome their presence among the more than 1 million program participants we serve annually and help integrate back into the civilian sector. Often, they add as a significant source of their employer’s continued growth and success wherever they go,” adds Salazar.
As of 2023, approximately 18.3 million U.S. veterans are living today, representing a diverse group that includes nearly 2 million women whose share continues to grow in the veteran community. Over 78% of veterans served during wartime, demonstrating an enduring commitment to the defense of our nation. Veterans of the Gulf War era now comprise the largest group, with 7.8 million serving from August 1990 to the present (Pew Research Center, 2023).
The economic contributions of veterans are substantial. Their participation in the workforce bolsters various sectors, with veteran-owned businesses alone contributing significantly to the economy. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that veterans have a higher labor force participation rate than non-veterans and tend to pursue careers in management, professional roles, and public service. These contributions enrich industries and foster innovation and resilience across the U.S. economy (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024).
Then, there are numerous inspiring examples of veterans who have transitioned into public service roles. Tammy Duckworth, a former U.S. Army pilot and double amputee, is a U.S. Senator advocating for military and civilian initiatives. Similarly, Dan Crenshaw, a retired Navy SEAL, represents Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives. The journey of Carlos del Toro, a military veteran who rose to become U.S. Secretary of the Navy, is compelling, too. Each exemplifies how the leadership and discipline forged in military service translate into influential roles that shape national policies.
This Veterans Day, SER National proudly voices its commitment to supporting workforce development and job training programs that empower veterans to thrive post-service. We wholeheartedly unite in gratitude and pledge continued efforts to ensure they find meaningful opportunities and recognition in all aspects of society.
“Let us take this day to acknowledge the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served and continue to serve,” says Salazar. “I encourage all Americans to recognize and support veterans within their families and communities as embodiments of dedication and the principles of this great country. May our future continue to be uplifted and made brighter because of veterans among us,” he adds.
by Ileana Martinez | Sep 13, 2024 | News & Updates
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month 2024, we salute the rich legacy and countless contributions that Latinos have made to our nation’s workforce, economy, and cultural vibrancy. This annual celebration, which runs from September 15 to October 15, honors the diverse histories, cultures, and achievements of Hispanic Americans whose influence spans every sector of American life.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge Latinos’ remarkable impact in shaping our nation. From the workforce to the arts, education to business, our community continues to enrich America’s tapestry with our hard work, creativity, and resilience,” said Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO of SER National.
Latinos play a significant role daily in many industries, from construction and agriculture to healthcare and education. The SER Network of Affiliates is honored to help shape Latino entrepreneurs, innovators, and cultural leaders who are leaving indelible marks on this country. Our stories are those of determination, perseverance, and success, and they illustrate how diversity strengthens and enriches our nation.
The growth and influence of the Hispanic community have been reflected not only in numbers but also in the profound impact Latinos have made across multiple sectors. Latino artists continue to shine in the world of culture and art, with recent exhibitions and performances drawing attention to the vibrant stories that shape our experiences. From Hollywood to the music charts, Latino voices lead movements and shape narratives that resonate across generations. In education, Latinos advance as leaders and scholars, breaking barriers and lifting future generations to pursue their dreams.
Business, too, is thriving with Latino entrepreneurs, whose start-ups and enterprises contribute immensely to the nation’s economic vitality. The successes of Latino-owned businesses demonstrate the hard work and innovative spirit that fuel growth and opportunity across the U.S.
Hispanic Heritage Month originated in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to the month-long observance we celebrate today. This period was chosen because it coincides with the independence anniversaries of many Latin American countries. Over the years, it has grown into an annual national celebration of Latinos’ enduring contributions to the United States.
“America is made stronger by the diversity of its people, and Hispanic Heritage Month is a beautiful reminder of how our differences, when embraced, make this country a more vibrant and resilient place,” Salazar added. “This month is an opportunity to honor the shared values of hard work, community, and family at the heart of the Hispanic experience.”
As we mark this occasion, we invite every American to participate in the celebrations. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of beauty, joy, and excitement—a time to reflect on the shared values that unite us all as a nation. SER National encourages everyone to embrace the spirit of this month and celebrate the richness of our cultures, knowing that in America, everyone’s voice and contributions genuinely matter.
