Governor Greg Abbott has announced a grant exceeding $138,000 from the Skills Development Fund to Victoria College. The Texas Workforce Commission awarded this grant on Friday to provide specialized training in petroleum and coal products manufacturing for more than 100 new and current employees at Seadrift Coke.
Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of workforce investment for future Texans, stating, "As the Best State for Business, investments in our workforce are critical for the success of the next generation of Texans." He highlighted expanding career training as an emergency item in the current legislative session. "This grant will provide over 100 workers with the customized training they need to excel in their manufacturing careers," he added.
TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel noted that the grant is crucial for developing a skilled workforce. "Upskilling and reskilling programs like the Skills Development Fund help ensure Texas has talented workers to fill high-demand jobs," said Daniel.
The award was presented by TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III during a ceremony at Victoria College's Emerging Technology Complex. The event included representatives from Victoria College, Seadrift Coke, and other local partners.
In his recent State of the State Address, Governor Abbott prioritized expanding career training as an emergency measure for this legislative session. The SDF program supports businesses by enhancing workforce skills through partnerships with community colleges and technical institutions across Texas.
Since its inception in 1996, the SDF program has collaborated with over 4,800 employers to train or create more than 420,000 jobs throughout Texas.