Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott announced over $1.3 million in job training grants to Collin County Community College District, provided by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The grants from the Skills Development Fund (SDF) are intended to offer customized training for more than 840 workers across 13 local businesses in sectors such as healthcare, accounting, and manufacturing.

"Investing in our workforce is critical for the success of the Texas economy," stated Governor Abbott. "The more than $1 million in grant funding will provide customized technical training for over 840 workers in high-demand industries in Collin County." Governor Abbott acknowledged the TWC's role in collaborating with community colleges to equip Texans with essential skills for future economic success. He added, "This is all part of the better jobs and bigger paycheck opportunities that we continue to provide in Texas."

TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel commented on the effectiveness of Skills Development Fund grants in filling employment needs, saying these funds "help train new and current workers for many in-demand occupations." He emphasized how these grants enable Collin County Community College District and local businesses to tackle workforce challenges and facilitate prosperous careers.

At a ceremony held at the Collin Higher Education Center in McKinney, TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III presented the awards to Collin College representatives, business partners, and community members.

The SDF grants include $362,157 for training 370 workers at businesses like Natural Polymer and Fiber Systems International in fields such as fiber optics and industrial wiring. Another grant of $478,770 will train 227 workers at companies like AXL LLC for roles in maintenance and project management. An additional grant of $353,072 will train 169 workers at firms like CSG Forte Payments Inc. in sectors such as healthcare and solar energy. Lastly, $158,958 will train 78 workers at Helm Dental Laboratory LLC for positions in risk management and manufacturing.

The SDF program, aiming to enhance business workforce skills, partners with community colleges and technical educators, supporting skill upgrades or job creation statewide. Since its establishment in 1996, over 435,000 jobs have been enhanced through collaborations with more than 4,900 employers.