Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott announced the allocation of over $7.3 million in Texas Talent Connection grants to 22 workforce skills training and job placement programs across Texas. Since 2015, Governor Abbott has awarded more than $57 million through these grants.

"Texas leads the nation in job creation thanks to the Best Business Climate in America and our skilled, growing workforce," said Governor Abbott. "To continue to meet workforce demands in an expanding economy, Texas is connecting more Texans to the skills training needed for the better job and bigger paycheck opportunities we provide. Together with our community partners and entrepreneurs, we will build an even stronger Texas workforce of tomorrow."

The grants aim to support education and workforce training programs that facilitate successful job placements, wage increases, and improved job retention. They also focus on assisting special needs populations, including opportunity youth aged 16-24 who are not engaged in education or employment.

Among the recipients is Alliance of Community Assistance Ministries, Inc., which received $350,000 for its Health Care Careers Initiative across several counties. This program aids participants in completing healthcare credentials and securing jobs as medical assistants, dental assistants, or certified nursing assistants.

American YouthWorks was granted $350,000 for its YouthBuild: Pre-Apprenticeship for Opportunity Youth project. The initiative offers pre-apprenticeship training and certifications in multiple counties.

Brazosport College received $349,432 for its Opportunity Connect project focused on re-engaging opportunity youth with fast-track education aligned with healthcare and construction trades occupations.

Community Learning Centers, Inc., Houston’s Capital IDEA, Inc., Lamar Institute of Technology, Lamar State College Port Arthur, North Central Texas College, Per Scholas, Inc., Project ARRIBA among others were also awarded grants for various projects aimed at enhancing technical skills training and employment opportunities across different sectors.

The Texas Workforce Investment Council plays a strategic role by assisting the Governor and Legislature with planning and evaluating the state's workforce system. The council includes members from business sectors, organized labor, education bodies as well as ex officio members from key state agencies like the Texas Workforce Commission.

The grant funds come from Wagner-Peyser 7(b) allocations provided by the U.S. Department of Labor to foster innovation in workforce training services.

Further details about the Texas Talent Connection grant program can be accessed online.