Tyler Junior College has received two grants totaling nearly $400,000, both of which are focused on workforce training and safety.
TRUE Grant through Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
TJC received a $280,000 grant from the Texas Higher Educating Coordinating Board as part of the board’s $13 million award through its Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education (TRUE) Grant Program.
The TRUE Grant Program supports the goals of the state’s strategic plan for higher education, Building a Talent Strong Texas, through the creation, expansion or redesign of workforce education and training credential programs in high-demand occupations.
“In the fast-growing, innovative Texas economy, it is critical that workforce education and training keeps pace to continue that success,” said Interim Commissioner of Higher Education Sarah Keyton. “These grants support Texas higher education institutions as they develop programs to prepare our workforce for the future and keep our state at the forefront in a demanding, ever-changing economy.”
The TRUE Grant Program was established by the 87th Texas Legislature. Programs supported by TRUE funds must be shorter than six months in duration, industry-aligned, in high-value/high-demand fields, and developed with the participation of key workforce stakeholders, such as workforce boards, economic development corporations, trade associations, industry representatives, and employers.
Texas Mutual Insurance Grant underwrites TJC Safety Institute
TJC has also received a $98,000 Texas Mutual Insurance Company grant to fund the TJC Safety Institute, which offers free courses focused on workplace development and safety for employers, employees and the public.
Located at TJC West, the institute aims to:
· Train current and future skilled workforce in safe work practices, particularly in high-risk industries or occupations prone to workplace accidents
· Develop strong pathways for in-demand, middle-skilled jobs
· Upskill and reskill adult learners with convenience in mind
The Safety Institute ensures the effectiveness and flexibility of TJC’s training programs by offering classes to meet the needs of employers.
For more information on the TJC Safety Institute and a complete list of available free courses, go to TJC.edu/workforcetraining.