State awards over $739,700 in grants to train Panhandle students for high-demand jobs

AUSTIN, Texas (KVII) — Governor Greg Abbott announced the allocation of over $739,700 in career training grants to three schools in the Panhandle area.

These Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants, awarded through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), aim to equip students for high-demand, well-paying jobs post-graduation.

"The Texas economy is booming thanks to our diverse and highly skilled workforce," said Governor Abbott. "Investments to these three Panhandle area schools are crucial to the continued success of our workforce and building a stronger, more prosperous Texas. I thank the Texas Workforce Commission for partnering with colleges across our state to help train Texas students for high-demand, good-paying jobs after graduation. Working together, we will ensure Texans in every corner of our state have the opportunity for a better job and a bigger paycheck."

TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel highlighted the significance of the grants, stating, "Today’s JET grant awards will allow hundreds of students to train for critical healthcare occupations like emergency medical technicians and nurses. Our partnership with innovative education institutions supports the success of future job seekers while building a pipeline of talented workers to meet local business needs."

Earlier today, TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza presented the awards at a ceremony attended by state and local officials and school staff at the Workforce Solutions Panhandle regional office.

The grants include $311,476 to Amarillo College to train 120 students as emergency medical technicians, $97,025 to Clarendon College to train 11 students as nursing assistants, and $331,298 to Frank Phillips College to train 100 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.

The Texas Legislature funds these JET grants each biennium to support the development or expansion of career and technical education programs.

The equipment funded through these grants must be used to train students for jobs in high-demand occupations. The JET grant awards for the current fiscal year will be announced in the coming months.