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WSSET receives $557,000 to create Skilled Workers, connect Industry and Education
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Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas announces the receipt of two grants that will help to
continue to increase skilled workers, provide meaningful employer engagement for students
completing their training, and enhance the connection between industry and education.
The ApprenticeshipTexas Expansions grant allows workforce development to engage with
established apprenticeship programs and help increase recruitment and enrollment in
the proven training programs. Apprentices are paid, full-time employees who earn while
they learn. Southeast Texas will partner with three registered, approved training programs
for this 2nd year funding:
- Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee of Local 211-Zone 195 Nederland (Pipefitters)
- Plumbers Joint Apprenticeship Committee
- Electrical Training Alliance of Southeast Texas
The grant in the amount of $260,000 will support the program's efforts to recruit and
enroll a total of 130 new apprentices in high-demand, high-wage craft occupations.
"These apprenticeship programs have a proven history in Southeast Texas. With the
success of the 1st year grant, we are looking forward to expanding the number of skilled,
trained workers in our area", stated Mary Hammon, executive director. Additionally, Workforce
Solutions will collaborate with Lamar State College Port Arthur and local health systems to
develop a registered Nursing pathway.
The Texas Governor's Office announced Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas as the recipient
of $297,120 Texas Talent Connection grant. Part of the grant funds will be utilized to provide
students in training and nearing successful completion of their certification or degree the
opportunity for a paid internship with an employer whose business is aligned with their field
of study. The students, selected by their professors and advisors, are eligible to work 20 hours
per week for 8 weeks at $15.00 per hour. Grant-supported internships for as many as 10 high school
students are also part of the fund utilization. The Texas Externship Initiative will also be covered
through the grant and allow as many as 70 local high school teachers to experience on-site, real-world
skills and academic activities at host sites. The host locations are businesses in high-growth
industries including petrochemical, manufacturing, maritime, and healthcare. Teachers spend 3 1/2
days at host sites, create lesson plans, and present their experiences to the group on the final
day of the one-week externship. Participants who successfully complete the week receive a $1,000
stipend.
For more information regarding grant implementation, please contact the workforce board office at 409-719-4750.
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