As we observe Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s important to celebrate the immense economic and cultural contributions that the Hispanic community brings to American society. These contributions are present across every sector, from entrepreneurship to education, technology to the arts. This impact is remarkable in the construction industry, where Hispanic workers play a vital and irreplaceable role.
In 2020, Hispanics comprised 30% of the construction workforce in the United States, far exceeding their 17.6% share of total employment. Within the industry, they represented an impressive 46.7% of construction laborers and 52.5% of painters and paperhangers. These numbers highlight not only the importance of the Hispanic workforce in maintaining and advancing America’s infrastructure but also the dedication and expertise that they bring to their craft.
A local testament to this contribution can be seen right here at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Recently, a significant construction project called the “Trojan Way” among others, encompassed the rebuilding of the main north to south promenade on campus. The project enhanced walkways, seating areas, and gathering spaces for students, faculty, and staff, creating a more dynamic, inclusive, and functional environment for learning and growth.
Hispanic hands played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life. Their skills, hard work, and commitment to excellence were instrumental in building a beautiful space that will benefit students for generations to come. These efforts are more than construction; they represent a lasting contribution to the educational infrastructure of our university and our community.
Hispanic workers are proud to contribute to projects that enrich the lives of others, knowing their efforts will leave a lasting impact.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate these contributions and recognize the indispensable role the Hispanic community plays in shaping America’s future. It’s a time to honor the hands that build, the minds that innovate, and the hearts that give back. Efforts like those seen in the recent construction at UA Little Rock remind us that while these projects may be temporary, their impact is felt forever.
As a Mexican woman, I feel immense pride in seeing how our community contributes to the growth and development of Little Rock and the rest of Arkansas. I am honored to support our Hispanic community, advocating for their contributions to be recognized and valued. Here in Little Rock, I see firsthand how our efforts shape the world around us, from the buildings we erect to the businesses we create. I serve as a bilingual business consultant for the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC), and I take immense pride in helping entrepreneurs start and grow their dream businesses, providing them with tools, resources, and personalized guidance to navigate the business landscape overcoming the barriers of language, technology and migratory status. There is always a solution and potential options for everyone.
Let us continue to recognize and celebrate the economic, cultural, and social contributions of the Hispanic community, ensuring that our efforts are honored and recognized not just in this month but year-round. We build not only physical spaces but also bridges to understanding, cooperation, and shared success.
Those helping with some of the construction at UA Little Rock: Floyd Lane, Gabriel Hernández, Tania Martinez Bandak, Fabián de Rosa, Jesús Méndez, Ascensión Torres and Kevin Chavez.
Tania Martinez Bandak, Arkansas Business Navigator Specialist