News Archives | SERJobs https://ser.10web.cloud/blog/category/news/ Where Opportunity Works! Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:45:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://serjobs.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/favicon.ico News Archives | SERJobs https://ser.10web.cloud/blog/category/news/ 32 32 SERJobs Partners with Compudopt to Provide 200 Free Laptops to Local Job Seekers at Winter Graduation Ceremony https://serjobs.org/blog/serjobs-partners-with-compudopt-to-provide-200-free-laptops-to-local-job-seekers-at-winter-graduation-ceremony/ Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:45:40 +0000 https://serjobs.org/?p=15979 The post SERJobs Partners with Compudopt to Provide 200 Free Laptops to Local Job Seekers at Winter Graduation Ceremony appeared first on SERJobs.

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SERJobs Partners with Compudopt to Provide 200 Free Laptops to Local Job Seekers at Winter Graduation Ceremony

Houston, TX — December 12, 2025

SERJobs, a leading nonprofit workforce development organization serving the Greater Houston region, is proud to announce a special partnership with Compudopt to distribute 200 free laptops to SERJobs members and eligible community participants during its Winter Graduation Ceremony on December 12, 2025.

The laptop distribution empowers individuals with the tools they need to continue their career journeys — from accessing online job applications, to skill-based training, digital literacy resources, virtual interviews, and ongoing financial coaching.

The giveaway is part of Compudopt’s mission to ensure every family has access to the technology required to participate fully in today’s digitally forward economy, regardless of income. Each laptop comes with a two-year warranty and free tech support, helping remove barriers to workforce participation.

Individuals receiving laptops represent a wide range of SERJobs training programs, including CDL, Electrical, Construction, HVAC, Career Readiness, YouthBuild, and other skill-based pathways that prepare adults and young adults for employment in high-demand industries.

“Access to technology is access to opportunity,” said SERJobs CEO Liliana Rambo. “These laptops allow our members to pursue certifications, apply for jobs, complete training, and stay connected to the resources that move them toward long-term stability. We are grateful to Compudopt for helping remove one of the biggest barriers facing job seekers today.”

“Technology access is the foundation of economic mobility,” said Compudopt CEO Megan Steckly. “It opens the door to greater employment opportunities, education, skill-building and financial resources that shape our community’s future. Compudopt is proud to partner with SERJobs to break down digital barriers and ensure more families have the tools to succeed.”

More than 200 SERJobs members registered to receive a laptop. Due to overwhelming demand, individuals not selected for this giveaway will be invited to participate in future distribution events with Compudopt.

The laptop distribution will take place immediately following the Winter Graduation ceremony at the SERJobs Workforce Training & Resource Center located at 1960 Tellepsen St., Houston, TX 77023.

SER – Jobs for Progress of the Texas Gulf Coast, Inc. (SERJobs) was founded in 1965 through the combined efforts of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the G.I. Forum, and the Department of the Navy. Since its establishment, SERJobs has helped individuals from low-income communities transform their lives through education, training, employment, and financial empowerment services. SERJobs has locations in Houston, Galveston and Fort Bend, serving individuals in need in over 13 counties across the Texas Gulf Coast. 

For more information about SERJobs, visit www.serjobs.org or contact nrobinson@serjobs.org. 

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SERJOBS WELCOMES LILIANA RAMBO AS NEWLY APPOINTED CEO https://serjobs.org/blog/serjobs-welcomes-liliana-rambo-as-newly-appointed-ceo/ Mon, 23 Jun 2025 02:58:34 +0000 https://serjobs.org/?p=15795 The post SERJOBS WELCOMES LILIANA RAMBO AS NEWLY APPOINTED CEO appeared first on SERJobs.

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“On behalf of the SERJobs Board of Directors, I am thrilled to welcome Liliana Rambo as the next CEO of our organization. Liliana brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep passion for workforce development that aligns beautifully with our mission. Her proven ability to scale impact, drive innovation, and center community voices makes her the ideal leader to guide SERJobs into its 60th year of service—and beyond. We look forward to the future with confidence and excitement under her leadership.” 

—Bryan Neely, Board Chair, SERJobs 

 

Rambo to Lead Organization into 60th Year of Workforce Impact

Houston, TX — SERJobs, a leading Gulf Coast nonprofit committed to transforming lives through education, training, employment, and financial empowerment, proudly announces the appointment of Liliana Rambo, IAP, CM, CAPP, as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 14, 2025. Rambo brings decades of cross-sector leadership experience in public service, workforce development, and nonprofit management. She steps into the role as SERJobs celebrates its 60th year of impact and prepares for an exciting next chapter of growth and community engagement. 

A mission-driven Houstonian, Rambo is recognized for transforming organizations, expanding access to opportunity, and building high-impact partnerships to serve underserved communities. Her leadership spans operational excellence, fundraising, and program innovation. She previously served as Chief Terminal Management and Administration Officer at the Houston Airport System, where she oversaw a $120M+ budget and launched large-scale workforce development initiatives to support more than 1,300 employees. Her work at the Houston Airport System blended both public service and nonprofit principles—focusing on access, training, equity, and service to the community. In addition to her professional achievements, Rambo has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to civic engagement in the non-profit space through her service as a Board Member of the Texas USO and the Houston Airport System’s Wings of Compassion, as well as her past leadership as President of the WPG-Houston Chapter from 2006 to 2011. She also served for over a decade as a Board Member and Chair of the International Parking and Mobility Institute; an international nonprofit organization focused on advancing transportation, parking and mobility solutions—further demonstrating her dedication to expansive impact through mission-driven leadership. 

“As SERJobs reaches this exciting milestone of 60 years serving the community, we are thrilled to welcome Liliana Rambo as our next CEO,” said Bryan Neely, Chair of the SERJobs Board of Directors. “Her deep commitment to equity, her lived experience, and her strong track record of operational excellence and community partnership make her the right leader to guide SERJobs into its next chapter.” 

Neely also addressed the recent leadership transition: “During the search process, the Board asked me to step in as Interim CEO to ensure continuity and stability. I temporarily stepped aside from my role as Board Chair and am now proud to return to that position with full confidence in Liliana’s leadership. We are deeply grateful to our team and community for their continued trust during this time.” 

As CEO, Rambo will oversee strategic growth, deepen employer and community partnerships, and lead continued innovation across SERJobs’ training and employment services. She will lead a team dedicated to helping thousands of individuals annually access life-changing job opportunities, wraparound services, and career coaching. With 3 locations across the Texas Gulf Coast and a growing alumni network, SERJobs continues to serve as a vital connector between talent and economic opportunity. 

“This role brings together every part of what I care about – dignified work, economic opportunity, and giving people the tools to change their lives,” said Rambo. “It’s an honor to join SERJobs and lead this exceptional organization at such a pivotal moment in its history. Together with our board, members, partners, and supporters, we will continue building a stronger, more dynamic economy for all.” 

Rambo succeeds Sheroo Mukhtiar, who faithfully led the organization for the past seven years and helped expand its mission and reach. Rambo brings new energy and perspective to continue the work of uplifting communities and breaking down barriers to opportunity. 

SER – Jobs for Progress of the Texas Gulf Coast, Inc. (SERJobs) was founded in 1965 through the combined efforts of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the G.I. Forum, and the Department of the Navy. Since its establishment, SERJobs has helped individuals from low-income communities transform their lives through education, training, employment, and financial empowerment services. SERJobs has locations in Houston, Galveston and Fort Bend, serving individuals in need in over 13 counties across the Texas Gulf Coast. 

For more information about SERJobs, visit www.serjobs.org or contact nrobinson@serjobs.org. 

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Mission in Motion – Q2 2025 https://serjobs.org/blog/mission-in-motion-q2-2025/ Mon, 19 May 2025 23:11:19 +0000 https://serjobs.org/?p=15731 SERJobs has been busy – citizenship assistance, events, success stories, and Second Servings rounded out Q2 2025. Read on in the Q2 2025 Mission in Motion newsletter. 

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SERJobs has been busy – citizenship assistance, events, success stories, and Second Servings rounded out Q2 2025. Read on in the Q2 2025 Mission in Motion newsletter. 

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Mission in Motion – Q1 2025 https://serjobs.org/blog/mission-in-motion-q1-2025/ Mon, 19 May 2025 23:08:21 +0000 https://serjobs.org/?p=15727 The post Mission in Motion – Q1 2025 appeared first on SERJobs.

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Read SERJobs’ “Mission in Motion” newsletter for Q1 2025! Updates on programs like the Comcast Lift Zone, success stories from clients, and so much more.

Read the Q1 2025 Mission in Motion newsletter here.

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Spring is here! Start your new career journey with our services https://serjobs.org/blog/spring-is-here-may-2022/ Mon, 09 May 2022 17:58:47 +0000 https://serjobs.wpengine.com/?p=12647 This May SERJobs is offering life-changing career opportunities. Spring is starting, which means May is the month of new beginnings, so use this excuse and apply it to our training and start your new professional life. The best part of all is that all of our services are FREE! This month we’re offering a variety […]

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This May SERJobs is offering life-changing career opportunities. Spring is starting, which means May is the month of new beginnings, so use this excuse and apply it to our training and start your new professional life. The best part of all is that all of our services are FREE! This month we’re offering a variety of training, including electrician, customer service, banking, apprenticeship, warehouse forklift, and welding; and last but not least, YouthBuild!

YouthBuild is an excellent opportunity for young adults looking to earn their GED; the one-on-one YouthBuild learning experience helps them be more successful in their process. Students are assigned a team of professionals to help them achieve their goals. YouthBuild helps students receive their GED and real-life work experience. It also offers support services so that the process will be easier for each individual.

Electrician training is a great option; with it being an in-demand job, students that are successful at their training are guaranteed to get a job when graduating. Students will also receive their NCCER Electrician Level 1 Credential and their NCCER Core Construction certification. Customer service training offers students virtual training, and the student will learn customer service and sales skills. This training also provides help in building a resume and looking for a job search.

Banking training is excellent for someone who wants to enter the banking industry and is looking for positions like a bank teller, personal banker, and customer service representative. Students will learn personal finances, customer service, communications, cash and checking, currency and compliance, and job readiness.

Apprenticeship training is a long-term option because of the benefits received; this training will help the student earn while he learns, with a competitive wage from the first day—a real-world education with on-the-job learning and job-related classroom training. In addition, the student will receive recognized credentials that will help them get a job anywhere they want.

Welding training is a hybrid course to obtain the necessary technical skills in welding, layout, cutting, and steel fitting. The warehouse forklift training is a 2-week course that helps the student learn the essential skills and safety measures for a career in the supply chain industry using forklifts. The student will receive the OSHA Compliant Forklift Safety for Class IV and V PIT per 1910.178 credentials.

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The Youth Are Our Future! Learn About YouthBuild Houston https://serjobs.org/blog/spring-2022-youthbuild/ Wed, 20 Apr 2022 22:10:03 +0000 https://serjobs.wpengine.com/?p=12523 YouthBuild is one of our many youth programs offered at SERJobs! This program was created by the U.S. Department of Labor and SERJobs administers the program in the Houston area. We provide the opportunity for young adults to earn their GED, learn on-the-job skills, and improve their lives. After finishing the program, they will receive […]

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YouthBuild is one of our many youth programs offered at SERJobs! This program was created by the U.S. Department of Labor and SERJobs administers the program in the Houston area. We provide the opportunity for young adults to earn their GED, learn on-the-job skills, and improve their lives.

After finishing the program, they will receive a nationally recognized job-ready certification; this will help them get any job they are qualified for nationwide. Teachers provide individualized support for each Youthbuild student to help them achieve their educational goals. Youthbuild staff guide Youthbuild students and provide them with the necessary abilities to enter professional life.

There are about 300 YouthBuild programs nationwide; this helps adolescents have the chance of gaining an education and job skills that will help their community. This program specializes in earning while learning; like most SERJobs training, while students are completing their GED, they have the opportunity of working in real-life scenarios for in-demand industries. In addition, this helps them be prepared with the necessary skills for after graduation.

“I joined YouthBuild to get a certificate as an electrician. So far, it’s going great; I like going to the job site and learning and getting to meet new people,” said one YouthBuild student.

Know a student interested in applying? The application is easy, there are only a few steps! First, students have to submit their applications on our website. Then, after 24 to 48 hours, a Youthbuild career coach will contact the student to guide them with any extra information needed and determine if they are eligible. How is someone qualified? They have to be 16 to 24 years old. Have to be from a low-income household and dropped out of high school. After you meet with your career coach and are guided through the process, the student will be invited to pre-cohort testing; this will take place a week before the next cohort begins. All cohorts starton a rolling basis.

For more information and application visit the Youthbuild webpage.

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A Career You Can Bank On! Learn more about our Banking Training https://serjobs.org/blog/april-banking-training/ Thu, 31 Mar 2022 14:53:11 +0000 https://serjobs.wpengine.com/?p=12471 Our Banking training services are 100% virtual! The next class starts on April 11 and ends June 3, 2022. For this training you will have to go through a short application process that includes a brief interview. Afterwards, you will be assigned a career coach that will help guide you through the process. The coaches […]

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Our Banking training services are 100% virtual! The next class starts on April 11 and ends June 3, 2022. For this training you will have to go through a short application process that includes a brief interview. Afterwards, you will be assigned a career coach that will help guide you through the process. The coaches are there to help you succeed and empower you to make the most of your training! With their help, reaching your goals will be trouble-free.

Obtain in-depth training created with our financial institution partners. Applicants will learn everything about entry-level positions in the banking industry and help you master the navigation of the banking career assessment and prepare you for job applications. This training is perfect if you want to grow in the banking industry and receive the benefits that come with it, such as a higher paying wage and a more stable work schedule. The salary will vary from $15/hr to $22/hr, depending on the person’s skills and work experience. You will learn skills like, personal finances, cash and checking fundamentals, currency and compliance and job readiness.

“Think about how a job where your hard work is valued. Solidified skills that not only teach you the inside and outs of many financial institutes but also connects you to a lifetime of job opportunities and networking.” said Robert Depay, the SERJobs Banking training instructor. “Our Banking training helps turn your biggest fear of not getting one foot in the door to honing your skills and one day walking through that same door with a smile knowing everything you learned paid off.”

Some of the requirements needed for application are, the access to a computer with microphone and camera, a reliable internet connection, experience in cash handling and customer service or sales. You must be 18 years or older and have a high school diploma or GED. At the end of the course a graduation will be held and several of our partners such as Bank of America, Frost Bank, Wells Fargo, Capital One Bank and others attend and hire new employees.

Another benefit is that the course prepares students from the beginning to participate in mock interviews to be prepared for job fairs. Bank training is a great step towards your professional goal, it is one of the most in-demand jobs and the work you put into it will be rewarded. The best part? This course and our services are 100% free for those individuals who qualify!

 

CHECK OUT THESE OTHER TRAININGS HAPPENING IN APRIL!

  • Commercial Driver’s License training (April 4 – May 20, 2022) | APPLY NOW
  • Warehouse Forklift training (April 18 – 29, 2022)  | APPLY NOW
  • Call Center Technician training -Virtual- (April 25 – May 20, 2022) | APPLY NOW
  • Customer Service training -Virtual- (April 25 – May 6, 2022) | APPLY NOW
  • Commercial Driver’s License training (April 25 – June 10, 2022) | APPLY NOW

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SERJobs Celebrates Black History Month 2022 https://serjobs.org/blog/serjobs-celebrates-black-history-month-2022/ Wed, 09 Mar 2022 17:29:58 +0000 https://serjobs.wpengine.com/?p=12351 The post SERJobs Celebrates Black History Month 2022 appeared first on SERJobs.

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This February, the SERJobs Employee Engagement Black History Month Subcommittee hosted a lineup of events to amplify Black history and culture amongst staff, with a special focus on Black history in Texas and in Houston.

The first event was an open-air happy hour kicking off the month hosted at the Wing Quarter, located in the Third Ward. The event was an excellent team-building opportunity, paired with delicious Cajun cuisine and great weather!

The next two events were geared towards amplifying Black history: a Lunch + Learn event featuring a screening of Netflix’s High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America, Episode 4 with popcorn from POParazzi Popcorn; and Black History Month Jeopardy.

To explore Black history and art from a Houston perspective, a Black History Month Book Club was organized to read a book written by a Black author from Houston. After a vote amongst participants, the winning book club selection was Invisible Houston: The Black Experience in Boom and Bust by Dr. Robert D. Bullard of Texas Southern University, who is widely regarded as the Father of Environmental Justice. The books were purchased from Houston’s first Black-owned bookstore, Kindred Stories in the Third Ward. The book club will meet in March to discuss the book.

To end the month, the Black History Month Subcommittee organized the second annual Culture + Cuisine Day! Staff were treated to a day of catered meals from local Black-owned restaurants, with the day kicking off with breakfast from Glazed the Doughnut Café located at 1333 Old Spanish Trail. Staff lunches were catered by Mikki’s Soulfood Café and Soul Food Vegan. The day ended with Crumbville’s famous stuffed cupcakes!

To complement these events, a newsletter was distributed each week highlighting celebrated Black Americans throughout history, and a display in the SERJobs lobby was also erected to highlight these historic figures.

The SERJobs Employee Engagement Black History Month Subcommittee was chaired by Kazhari Ray, Program Coordinator. The subcommittee members were Robert Depay, Valeri Dunn, Joyce Harris, Felicia Hines, Zully Ramon-Vidal, and Christi Vasquez.

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SERJobs wins 2022 Development of Distinction Award https://serjobs.org/blog/serjobs-wins-2022-development-of-distinction-award/ Fri, 04 Mar 2022 16:59:08 +0000 https://serjobs.wpengine.com/?p=12281 The post SERJobs wins 2022 Development of Distinction Award appeared first on SERJobs.

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On February 22, 2022, SERJobs was presented with the 2022 Development of Distinction Award from the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Houston. SERJobs won in the Not For Profit category for its Workforce Opportunity Center located at 1710 Telephone Road.

RDLR Architects spearheaded the project and the ULI Houston 2022 Development of Distinction nomination process. Longtime SERJobs champion and employer partner Tellepsen was the project’s general contractor, with engineering by Matrix Structural Engineering and landscape architecture by Asakura Robinson.

The SERJobs Workforce Opportunity Center is the heart of the SERJobs campus and opened in 2018. It was the result of the vision and direction of SERJobs leaders past and present, as well as the resilient community that has supported and advocated for the organization throughout its storied history in Houston’s East End.

With the opening of the Workforce Opportunity Center, SERJobs amplified its legacy with a state-of-the-art building to provide economic opportunity to even more individuals across 13 Texas counties. The City of Houston and Harris County contributed a large portion of the $11.5 Million Capital Campaign, as well as countless other stakeholders and community partners that help make the WOC a reality.

SERJobs continues to expand its impact in the Texas Gulf Coast this year, with its Workforce Training Center slated to open September 2022.

Read the full press release from ULI Houston here.

Browse photos from the event here.

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Looking for a career change? March is your lucky month! https://serjobs.org/blog/looking-for-a-career-change-march-is-your-lucky-month/ Thu, 03 Mar 2022 16:44:35 +0000 https://serjobs.wpengine.com/?p=12244 The post Looking for a career change? March is your lucky month! appeared first on SERJobs.

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March is full of new opportunities with SERJobs! We offer great training courses to start your professional career as prepared as possible. The trainings include Electrician, Call Center Technician, Customer Service, Commercial Driver’s License and Warehouse Forklift.

ABOUT OCCUPATIONAL TRAININGS

Electrician training is hybrid, and it covers the essential skills to embark your career as an electrician. This is one of our most recommended choices because currently the electrical industry is in high demand. You will earn credentials and certificates to validate your work.

Call Center Technician is crucial in today’s digital workforce. This training helps students excel at customer service, call center training, typing skills, Microsoft office and more. Another related training is Customer Service training—this is a great virtual option that helps master customer service skills and sales skills, including understanding the customer life cycle, developing effective strategies to engage customers, assessing customer needs.

Commercial Driver’s License training offers 2 phases of the journey, the permitting phase, and the licensing-skills phase. This course is designed to prepare a student to obtain a commercial driver’s license which is required for a career as a truck driver in the United States. The Warehouse Forklift provides the ability to safely use and maintain hydraulic lifting equipment. March is a great month to start your professional career, don’t wait another second.

 

CHECK OUT THE SCHEDULE + TAKE THE NEXT STEP IN YOUR CAREER!

  • Electrician training (03/14/2022 – 04/22/2022) | APPLY NOW
  • Call Center Technician training (03/21/2022 – 04/15/2022) | APPLY NOW
  • Customer Service training -Virtual- (03/21/2022 – 04/01/2022) | APPLY NOW
  • Commercial Driver’s License training (03/28/2022) – (05/13/2022) | APPLY NOW
  • Warehouse Forklift training (03/28/2022 – (04/08/2022) | APPLY NOW

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