Governor Greg Abbott announced that three Central Texas schools will receive a combined $872,543 in career training grants, the Texas Workforce Commission said.
The Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants will support career and technical education programs, providing funds for equipment purchases that will initially train 75 students for high-demand positions. Texas Workforce Commission Chairman Joe Esparza presented the awards at a ceremony at Austin Community College's Riverside Campus.
Austin Community College received $331,387 to train 50 students as automotive service technicians and mechanics with an electronic vehicle specialization. Hearne Independent School District received $344,985 to train five students as registered nurses through a partnership with Blinn College. Lometa Independent School District received $196,171 to train 20 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses through Central Texas College.
The JET program, funded by the Texas Legislature, covers start-up costs for developing or expanding career and technical education programs. Equipment purchased through the grants must be used to train students for jobs in high-demand occupations.