Lake Jackson, TX – May 2025 — In a powerful display of workforce readiness and community
collaboration, 104 graduating seniors from 18 high schools across Brazoria and Matagorda
counties signed full-time job offers with leading contractor companies at this year’s Brazoria
County Petrochemical Council (BCPC) Career Signing Day—the largest event of its kind in the
state of Texas.
Held annually, the event marks a direct transition from high school into high-demand, high-wage
careers in the region’s booming petrochemical industry. Since its inception, the program has
launched over 400 students into the workforce, even continuing uninterrupted during the
COVID-19 pandemic.
“What started as an idea seven years ago has grown into something truly powerful,” said Jesse
Jennings, one of the event’s original founders and President/ CEO of ABC Texas Gulf Coast.
“We wanted to celebrate students entering the workforce just like we celebrate athletes on
signing day—and thanks to the support of our industry and community partners, that vision is
now a reality.”
This year, BCPC also honored Inga Gibbons of Brazosport ISD as the inaugural Signing Day
Champion for her leadership and dedication to student success.
Inspirational remarks from community leaders, including Brazosport College President Dr.
Vincent Solis and Dr. Chris Boleman, President and CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and
Rodeo reinforced the message of purpose, growth, and giving back. “You decide where to give
back—but you won’t be complete until you do,” Dr. Boleman reminded the students.
One such student, Alejandro Coronado—now a foreman at Shintech—embodied the power of
the program. “Signing Day gave me a career, not just a job,” he said. “If you’re willing to work
hard, stay humble, and keep learning, this industry can take you further than you imagined.”
As 104 students stepped forward to sign their names, they also stepped into their futures. BCPC
Career Signing Day continues to serve as a model for industry-led education and workforce
development across the state.
