(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — May 28, 2025) — Hundreds of El Paso ISD students took a bold step toward their futures during the district’s third annual Healthcare Expo and Hiring Fair, held May 21 at the Starlight Event Center. The event brought together students, healthcare professionals, higher education institutions, and industry partners for a day of networking, hands-on learning, and career-building opportunities.
More than 300 students from the district’s top health science programs—including the Center for Career and Technology Education, Franklin P-TECH, Irvin P-TECH, Jefferson P-TECH, and Silva Health Magnet High School—participated in the event. With certifications in fields such as nursing assistance, phlebotomy, EKG, pharmacy, and more, these students are ready to enter one of the region’s highest-demand sectors.
“Our goal is to prepare students not just for graduation, but for real careers that make a difference,” said Denise Galvez, a Career and Technical Education (CTE) facilitator. “We want them to stay in El Paso, to serve their community, and to be proud of the work they do. That’s what this event is all about—connecting talent to opportunity.”
The expo featured breakout sessions, healthcare demonstrations, and same-day job interviews with local hospitals and clinics. Representatives from every major hospital system in El Paso and all area institutions of higher education were in attendance. Students were able to meet directly with employers, learn about career pathways, and explore next steps after high school.
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Superintendent Diana Sayavedra attended the event and praised the students’ dedication to pursuing healthcare careers. El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson also addressed the students, encouraging them to consider building their careers locally.
The expo’s keynote speaker, Lourdes Vega, PharmD and EPISD alumna, inspired the crowd by sharing her journey from student to pharmacy leader.
“This experience gives me the chance to not only find a job and make money for college, but it also helps me gain real-world experience in my field,” said Maximillian Estorga, a student from Silva Health Magnet High School. “I’m very excited for what comes next.”
With the healthcare industry facing workforce shortages nationwide, El Paso ISD’s commitment to preparing students for high-demand, high-skill fields through work-based learning and certification programs has never been more vital.
“This is how we build a pipeline of talent that supports our local economy and meets real community needs,” Galvez added. “These students are ready—and their future starts now.”