140 Workers Laid Off in El Paso as Auto Giant Tenneco Shuts Down Key Operations!

Tenneco, a global automotive parts manufacturer, has announced the layoff of 140 employees at its El Paso facility, marking one of the city’s largest industrial job losses in 2025. The move is part of a broader corporate restructuring plan aimed at reducing operational costs worldwide. In an official filing with the Texas Workforce Commission, Tenneco revealed that the layoffs will occur in two phases — one in early April and another in June. Affected workers were notified this week, and many say they were caught completely off guard. “I’ve worked here for 17 years. They just handed us letters,” said one employee who asked to remain anonymous. “There was no warning, no chance to prepare.” What’s Causing the Layoffs? Tenneco cited a combination of factors behind the decision: Global supply chain disruptions Decreased demand for combustion-engine components Increased automation within production lines Corporate cost-cutting following a 2024 financial downturn The El Paso facility, which has historically focused on emissions and ride performance parts, is reportedly being scaled back as the company shifts focus toward electric vehicle (EV) component production in other U.S. cities. Impact on the Local Economy The job losses come at a time when El Paso is already grappling with rising inflation and housing costs. Economists warn that losing over 100 skilled manufacturing positions could ripple through local businesses, from restaurants to housing markets. “These are not just jobs — they’re livelihoods,” said Dr. Elena Ruiz, a labor analyst at UTEP. “And they’re very hard to replace in today’s market.” City Response El Paso city officials have called on state and federal workforce agencies to provide immediate support, including: Emergency unemployment assistance Job retraining programs Career transition counseling Rapid hiring fairs targeting displaced workers In a statement, Mayor Oscar Vega said, “We are deeply disappointed by Tenneco’s decision, but our community will rally around those affected. We’ve weathered storms before — and we’ll do it again.” Stay with El Paso Bulletin as we follow up with affected families, explore potential new job opportunities, and analyze how this will reshape the city’s manufacturing future.