Latest edition of McAllen EDC’s Industrial Insights magazine includes tribute to Keith Patridge

MCALLEN, Texas – The latest edition of McAllen Economic Development Corporation’s monthly newsletter, known as Industrial Insights, features a front-page tribute to its recently retired president and CEO, Keith Patridge.

Patridge worked for McAllen EDC and the McAllen Foreign Trade Zone for 36 years. He was its dynamic leader from 2010.

Here is the tribute penned by McAllen EDC staff:

Keith Patridge: vision, dedication and hard work

Fitting all the extraordinary and amazing things Keith A. Patridge accomplished in his 36 years with the McAllen Economic Development Corporation and the McAllen Foreign Trade Zone is impossible. 

Under his visionary guidance, the McAllen Economic Development Corporation has achieved remarkable milestones, attracting major investments, fostering job creation and promoting economic growth. His strategic vision has not only strengthened the local economy, but has also forged valuable partnerships with businesses, government agencies and educational institutions. 

We would like to highlight some of the remarkable accomplishments that Keith accomplished during his 36 years of working at the McAllen EDC and the McAllen FTZ.

One of Keith’s most notable achievements is his initiative within the McAllen Economic Development Corporation to collaborate with the Reynosa, Mexico. This binational effort has attracted numerous industries, not only to Reynosa but also to McAllen, fostering a dynamic synergy that continues to benefit the region. Under his leadership, the McAllen EDC has worked with over 700 companies, creating more than 200,000 jobs. 

Keith’s efforts in securing a stable labor environment in Reynosa during the late 1980s have made it one of the most recognized and stable labor markets along the US-Mexico border. This stability has attracted global industries to the region, contributing to its continuous growth. 

Throughout his career, Keith has maintained a strong connection with industry, leading business retention initiatives and fostering relationships that have become a cornerstone of the McAllen Economic Development Corporation’s success. His mantra, “Let us know what we can do to help,” reflects his commitment to supporting industry and community growth. 

We are proud that his contributions have shaped McAllen into a leading community in the Rio Grande Valley. 

Keith’s contributions extend to the McAllen Foreign Trade Zone (MFTZ), where he played a crucial role in turning it into a profitable venture. From its inception, Keith focused on building business within the zone, which now offers full-service third-party logistics and is the only active Foreign Trade Zone in Hidalgo County. Keith’s efforts also secured the strategic purchase of land parcels in North McAllen, ensuring continuity and future growth for the region. 

His dedication to industry networking also led to the creation of the South Texas Manufacturers Association and the Reynosa Maquila Association, now known as Index Reynosa. These associations advocate for industry on both sides of the border, addressing key issues and promoting regional growth. 

As he transitions into retirement, we reflect with profound gratitude on his enduring contributions and the indelible mark he’s left on our community. His passion and knowledge for economic development, education and industry has created a thriving environment for businesses and residents alike. 

His legacy will forever remain a beacon of excellence and a testament to the power of visionary leadership in driving meaningful change, and sustainable development. We appreciate his leadership, his friendship, and we will miss his honest smile around our office. We wish him a Happy Retirement!

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