Seven South Texas schools receive more than 1.6 million in grants to expand career and technical training opportunities

Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott announced that seven Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants totaling $1,692,417 have been awarded to seven schools across South Texas by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). These grants will help strengthen career and technical education (CTE) training programs by allowing schools to purchase and install equipment to prepare students for in-demand careers such as nursing, electrical work, automotive service, and chemical plant operations. The funding will initially train 482 students for high-demand jobs in the region.

“Texas continues to support career and technical training programs to ensure young Texans have the tools necessary to be competitive in high-demand industries,” said Governor Abbott. “The over $1.6 million in job training grants will help prepare students in South Texas to go directly from graduation into good-paying careers. I thank the Texas Workforce Commission for their efforts to train Texans for the bigger job and bigger paycheck opportunities that we provide in Texas.”

TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel also emphasized the long-term impact of the funding. “Today’s JET grants will help more than 480 young Texans build the confidence, skillset, and experience for critically in-demand careers. TWC is investing in a dynamic workforce system that will continue to energize our growing economy by making businesses more competitive,” he stated.

Funding Targets Local Workforce Needs

Earlier in the day, TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza presented the grants at a ceremony held at Del Mar College’s Oso Creek campus, with state and local officials, educators, and community members in attendance.

The grants, awarded to school districts and colleges in partnership with local training institutions, are designed to address workforce shortages in sectors that are vital to Texas’ growing economy. The allocations include:

• Banquete Independent School District (ISD) – $350,000 to train 35 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in partnership with Del Mar College.

• Calhoun County ISD – $79,277 to train 150 students as registered nurses in partnership with Victoria College.

• Corpus Christi ISD – $57,312 to train 30 students as electricians in partnership with Del Mar College.

• Del Mar College – $313,833 to train 85 students as automotive service technicians.

• George West ISD – $314,945 to train 20 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in partnership with Del Mar College.

• San Diego ISD – $350,000 to train 87 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in partnership with Del Mar College.

• Victoria College – $227,050 to train 75 students as chemical plant and systems operators.

Strengthening the Path from Education to Employment

The JET program, funded by the Texas Legislature each biennium, helps cover the start-up costs for new or expanded CTE programs at public community colleges, state and technical colleges, school districts, and open-enrollment charter schools. The focus is on equipping students with the hands-on skills and technical knowledge required for high-demand occupations.

Equipment purchased through these grants will be dedicated to training students for roles that have strong hiring demand, ensuring that graduates are ready to transition directly into the workforce. By targeting fields such as healthcare, skilled trades, and industrial operations, the grants aim to bolster local economies while addressing statewide labor needs.

Governor Abbott highlighted the strategic nature of these investments, noting that they not only prepare students for well-paying jobs but also keep Texas industries competitive in a rapidly changing economy. With partnerships between educational institutions and employers, the JET program fosters a pipeline of skilled workers who can meet the challenges of the future.

The TWC encourages communities and educational institutions to continue pursuing these opportunities, ensuring that Texas remains a leader in workforce development and economic growth.