Arms: Alvarez wins top award from FIRST in Texas

Julian Alvarez, III, a distinguished advocate for workforce development and education in Texas, has been awarded the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award by FIRST in Texas. 

This honor recognizes his unwavering commitment to promoting STEM education and his efforts to ensure that Texas is well-prepared for the future.

Alvarez’s extensive career in public service and community engagement, including his influential tenure as the Commissioner Representing Labor at the Texas Workforce Commission, has been marked by his dedication to the interests of Texas workers and enhancing economic development. His leadership roles have consistently supported educational initiatives and community betterment projects, laying a strong foundation for his advocacy work with FIRST in Texas.

Since joining the Board of Directors for FIRST in Texas as a volunteer, Alvarez has been a powerful force for advancing STEM education across the state through FIRST robotics programs. His role in these programs and his volunteer efforts embody the spirit of community service that the President’s Volunteer Service Award aims to celebrate. Established by President George W. Bush in 2003, the award encourages Americans to engage in volunteer service and recognize significant contributions to communities.

We are thrilled to honor Mr. Alvarez with the President’s Volunteer Service Award. His passion for community service and his continued commitment to our mission have played a crucial role in expanding our impact on young minds interested in STEM across Texas for several years.

This award not only highlights Alvarez’s personal achievements and volunteerism but also serves as a beacon to inspire others to commit to meaningful service and community involvement.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award holds a paramount significance in recognizing the exceptional efforts of individuals who dedicate their time and energy to serving the community and making a positive impact. 

This prestigious award program acknowledges the remarkable contributions made by volunteers across various sectors, including nonprofits like FIRST in Texas.

By actively participating in this program, volunteers not only receive well-deserved recognition but also inspire others to engage in meaningful acts of service. Through their selfless dedication, these volunteers play a vital role in fostering social change, strengthening communities, and propelling organizations like FIRST in Texas to fulfill their missions of empowering and educating through STEM education and robotics.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of volunteerism and the immense value it brings to nonprofits and the communities they serve.

Editor’s Note: The above guest column was penned by Jason Arms, executive director at FIRST in Texas. The column appears in the Rio Grande Guardian with the permission of the author. Arms can be reached by email via: jason.arms@firstintexas.org

Sammy Rivera, FTC South Coordinator, Julian Alvarez, III, and Jason Arms, executive director of FIRST in Texas.

About FIRST in Texas

FIRST in Texas is a leader in science and technology education in Texas, offering programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills for young students. Serving more than 31,000 students in 2024 and providing valuable sustainability funding for schools to ensure access to our programs. As a certifying agency for the President’s Volunteer Service Award, FIRST in Texas honors volunteers who significantly contribute to the community and foster an environment that nurtures future technological leaders. 

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