(SAN MARCOS, Texas) – U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis visited the Gary Job Corps Center in Texas on Tuesday, July 13, 2010.  The Secretary toured the center’s medical, carpentry, transportation and communications union trades.  She also observed the high school and GED program at the nation’s largest Job Corps center and spoke with staff members and students.

“A history teacher once told me I could go to college,” Solis told her hosts.  “I was planning to go to college when my high school counselor told me I should only expect to go to a vocational school to become a secretary.  She was right I am the Secretary of Labor.  The same counselor told my sisters to choose less challenging careers.  Now I have a sister with a PhD and two others with engineering degrees.”

Secretary Solis encouraged Gary students to set goals and continue their education.  She also reminded staff members “you, as instructors, are mentors to these students.  You must guide them into productive futures.”

San Marcos City Mayor Susan Narvaiz was on hand at the center to present Secretary Solis with the key to her City.