Texas Workforce Commission Awards More Than $524,000 in JET Grants to Temple Area Schools

Temple, TEXAS – On Monday, February 26th, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) presented Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants totaling more than $524,000 to two schools in the Temple area. These grants, presented by TWC Commissioner Joe Esparza, represent a significant investment in career and technical education (CTE) training programs, aimed at preparing students for high-demand occupations in the region.

Governor Greg Abbott’s office highlighted the importance of these grants in equipping Texans with the advanced skills needed to excel in the workforce. “With these JET grants, more Texans will be equipped with the advanced skills they need to progress in their careers and fill high-demand jobs in the growing Texas economy,” said Governor Abbott.

The grants awarded to Academy Independent School District (ISD) and Temple ISD will support training programs in welding and licensed vocational nursing. These partnerships with local community colleges, including Temple College and McLennan Community College, will enable schools to purchase and install equipment necessary for hands-on training in these critical fields.

“We applaud the Texas Workforce Commission for recognizing the importance of investing in career training programs that align with the needs of our local workforce,” said Susan Kamas, Executive Director at Workforce Solutions of Central Texas. “These grants will not only provide students with valuable skills but also help meet the increasing demand for high-skill occupations in our community.”

Robinson ISD, northwest of Temple, was also awarded a grant of $188,887 towards medical assisting.

In the first year of the grants, more than 600 students will benefit from training in Welding, Licensed Vocational Nursing, and Medical Assistance. Workforce Solutions of Central Texas remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote economic prosperity and workforce development in the Temple area.