By Dannie Oliveaux | dannieoliveaux@theexaminer.com
The Texas Workforce Commission awarded Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants to two Southeast Texas schools during a ceremony at the Connie and Paul Szuch Multi-Purpose Center Conference Room at Lamar Institute of Technology on April 17.
The JET grants support career and technical education programs by funding equipment purchases and installation to train students for high-demand jobs, including information security analysts, nurses and welders.
TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett presented ceremonial checks to Kountze ISD and Lamar Institute of Technology, along with two colleges and two additional school districts. State and local officials and school staff attended the event.
“These strategic partnerships between the state and local education and training providers are what bring us to today’s celebration,” Connett said. “They will help build a more prosperous future for Texas. This moment highlights what can happen when education and state leadership work together.”
Kountze ISD received a $353,282 grant to train 90 students as welders in partnership with Lamar Institute of Technology. The institute received a $354,853 grant to train 50 students as electrical and electronics repairers for commercial and industrial equipment.
“We needed updated equipment in our welding shop,” said Melonee Fife, Kountze ISD’s career and technical education director. “Now we are up to industry standards. Our students are already practicing on the equipment. It’s been a major benefit.”
Fife said students feel they have an advantage after graduation.
“They have a leg up,” she said, noting that a Lamar Institute of Technology instructor reviewed the equipment.
Dr. Valerie Worry, academic department chair for Industrial and Engineering Technology at LIT, said its grant will fund a flexible automation cell training system for automated manufacturing instruction.
“It will allow students to work hands-on with programming, troubleshooting and operation,” Worry said. “The impact of this grant is immediate and long-lasting. The program is already underway, and enrollment is strong. It strengthens our ability to deliver industry-aligned training, supports a highly skilled workforce and contributes to the economic growth of our region and state.”YShe added the equipment aligns the program with workforce needs and expectations.
Other regional grant recipients include:
• Brazosport College, $356,250 to train 75 students as information security analysts.
• Hitchcock ISD, $190,769 to train 65 students as licensed practical and vocational nurses in partnership with College of the Mainland.
• San Jacinto College, $189,987 to train 110 students as electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians.
• West Sabine ISD, $332,500 to train 20 students as registered nurses in partnership with Lamar Institute of Technology.
Funded by the Texas Legislature each biennium, JET grants help cover startup costs for new or expanded career and technical education programs at public community, state and technical colleges, school districts and charter schools. Equipment purchased through the program must be used to train students for high-demand occupations.
“With these funds, six schools in Southeast Texas will train more than 400 students for in-demand jobs, creating pathways to economic prosperity,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “JET grants align industry demand with curriculum and help ensure Texas employers have access to skilled talent.”
“Our greatest resource is our young, skilled workforce,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “This $1.7 million in grant funding will give students hands-on training and a strong foundation for future careers. We are strengthening our state by investing in the workforce of tomorrow.”
