Arnulfo Hinojosa, FEWA Chief Operating Officer
When you talk to Arnulfo Hinojosa, two things become immediately clear: he’s a leading authority on the H-2 temporary guest worker process, and he’s one of the kindest, most respectful individuals you could ever meet.
As the Chief Operating Officer of the Federation of Employers and Workers of America (FEWA), Arnulfo works alongside a dedicated team to support it members who are both employers and workers.
FEWA plays a vital role by helping employers meet their seasonal workforce needs and assisting workers from countries with limited job opportunities. Uniquely, FEWA is the only organization that serves both employers and workers, fostering a community where both can thrive.
Born and raised in Bay City, Texas—about 80 miles southwest of Houston and 260 miles from the Mexico border—Arnulfo’s journey into this work began unexpectedly. While attending Wharton County Junior College, Arnulfo began working a part-time job in 2000 working side by side seasonal workers for a local landscaping company and tree farm. Owner, Scott Evans, one of the founders of FEWA, introduced Arnulfo into the green industry as well as the guestworker visa process.
In 2001, Arnulfo transitioned into doing guest worker visa work full time. FEWA was formed in 2003 by Founder Scott Evans, and Arnulfo served as one of its first employees. His initial role involved traveling to Central America and Mexico to help workers navigate the H-2 visa process at the U.S. Consulates. Arnulfo met people eager to improve their lives and provide for their families, often witnessing firsthand the hope and determination they carried. On the other side, Arnulfo observed employers struggling to fill open positions despite their efforts to hire locally. The frustration of employers and the resolve of workers fueled his passion for bridging the gap.
For over two decades, Arnulfo has found deep satisfaction in helping both FEWA’s employer members and workers overcome the complexities of government regulations to get the seasonal workforce they need. Many of these workers return year after year, sending money home that not only supports their families but also strengthens their local communities and schools. They leave their families and their homes for a legal opportunity to better their life, all while helping U.S. employers succeed and growth to strengthen the U.S. economy.
Arnulfo’s Mexican heritage plays an important role in his work. Fluent in Spanish, he connects with workers in their native language, helping build trust and understanding.
Each season, some worker members visit FEWA’s office as a reminder to the staff of the essential work they do. These personal interactions reinforce the heart of FEWA’s mission—creating meaningful connections that support both employers and workers alike and Solving America’s Immigration Problems One Employer and One Worker at a Time.