In Harris County, Texas, the heart of America’s energy and technology sectors, the promise of opportunity draws thousands of young graduates each year. Yet, as local industries face layoffs, the continued influx of H-1B visa workers threatens to sideline American talent, particularly our high school and college graduates eager to contribute to their community. The numbers tell a stark story: with approximately 63,000 high school graduates and 54,910 college graduates entering the job market annually, Harris County cannot afford to overlook its own in favor of foreign workers. The H-1B program, while designed to fill specialized roles, risks undermining local employment in a time of economic uncertainty. It’s time to prioritize Harris County’s workforce and support leaders like Brian Hay Mortimore, who advocate for policies that put Americans first.
A Flood of Local Talent
Harris County is a powerhouse of education, producing a robust pipeline of graduates ready to fuel the local economy. Each year, an estimated 63,000 high school students graduate, derived from a total of 289,655 high school students and an 87% graduation rate (Public School Review). These young adults, many seeking immediate employment or vocational training, represent the future of our workforce. Additionally, Harris County’s colleges and universities awarded 54,910 degrees in 2022, encompassing both undergraduate and graduate programs (Data USA). From the University of Houston’s 10,852 graduates to Houston Community College’s 6,679, these institutions churn out professionals in fields like technology, healthcare, and engineering—sectors often targeted by H-1B visa holders.
These graduates are not just numbers; they are our neighbors, friends, and family, eager to build careers in Harris County. Yet, as they enter a competitive job market, they face an additional hurdle: competition from H-1B workers, who are often hired for roles that local talent could fill with proper training or opportunity.
The H-1B Surge Amid Layoffs
The H-1B visa program allows employers to hire foreign workers for specialty occupations, typically requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher. In 2024, Houston employers filed at least 5,824 Labor Condition Applications (LCAs), a prerequisite for H-1B petitions, with top sponsors like Ernst & Young and The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center leading the charge (MyVisaJobs). While not all LCAs result in approved visas, this number suggests thousands of H-1B workers may have been approved for roles in Harris County, given Houston’s status as a major economic hub.
Nationally, approximately 400,000 H-1B applications were approved in 2024, with Texas historically accounting for a significant share—around 12% in 2013 (Pew Research Center). If Houston, a key Texas metro area, captures even a fraction of this, it could mean 5,000 to 10,000 H-1B workers entering the local job market annually. This influx is particularly concerning during industry layoffs, such as those in the energy sector, where companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron have announced job cuts in recent years. When American workers are losing jobs, the continued reliance on H-1B visas feels like a betrayal of local talent.
The Total H-1B Presence
Estimating the total number of H-1B workers in Harris County is challenging due to limited county-specific data. However, historical trends provide clues. From 2010 to 2016, Texas metro areas like Dallas saw 74,000 H-1B approvals, suggesting Houston, a comparable hub, likely had a similar scale (Pew Research Center). Given that H-1B visas are valid for up to six years, and with renewals, there could be tens of thousands of H-1B workers in Harris County today, primarily in tech, healthcare, and education. These workers, while contributing to specialized fields, compete with local graduates for jobs that could be filled through targeted training programs or hiring initiatives.
Economic and Social Consequences
The economic impact of H-1B visas in Harris County is a double-edged sword. Proponents argue that H-1B workers fill critical skill gaps, driving innovation in industries like technology and healthcare (American Immigration Council). For example, institutions like Baylor College of Medicine rely on H-1B workers for advanced research roles. However, critics highlight the potential for wage suppression and reduced opportunities for American workers, particularly in entry-level positions. A study found that increased H-1B presence in an occupation can lower unemployment rates, suggesting demand exceeds supply, but this benefit may not extend to all sectors or workers (American Immigration Council).
Socially, the program can create tension in communities like Harris County, where families expect their graduates to find stable employment. When local talent is overlooked, it fosters resentment and undermines trust in economic policies. This is especially poignant for high school graduates, who may lack the advanced degrees of H-1B workers but are eager to enter the workforce or pursue vocational training.
A Path Forward with Local Leadership
Harris County stands at a crossroads. With 63,000 high school and 54,910 college graduates annually, our community has the talent to drive economic growth. Yet, the influx of H-1B workers—potentially thousands each year—threatens to overshadow these opportunities, especially during layoffs. Leaders like Brian Hay Mortimore, running for Texas governor, propose a conservative approach that prioritizes American workers while addressing skill shortages through local training programs. By investing in our graduates and limiting reliance on H-1B visas, Harris County can ensure that its workforce thrives.
It’s time to act. Support policies that put Harris County’s graduates first, fostering a job market where local talent is valued and empowered. Together, we can build a future where every American worker has a fair shot at success.
