Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has announced a Skills Development Fund (SDF) grant award totaling $179,538 to Texas State Technical College (TSTC) by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The grant will provide customized training in healthcare, healthcare compliance, medical billing, and other high-demand occupations to 100 new and incumbent employees of Hendrick Health System.

Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of investing in the workforce, stating, “As our state and economy continue to grow, it is critical that we invest in our workforce to ensure key industries have the talent they need to thrive.” He added, “This job training grant to Texas State Technical College will help equip Texans in Waco with the skills they need to excel in high-demand healthcare positions and ensure we are able to meet the healthcare needs of Texans.”

TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel highlighted the significance of collaboration between education and industry partners, stating, “Bringing together partners in education and industry is essential to sustaining and improving the Texas workforce.” He noted that upskilling workers for critical occupations in the healthcare industry will benefit the local area and Texas’ entire economy.

The award was presented earlier today by TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza during a ceremony at TSTC’s Industrial Technology Center in Abilene. The grant is part of the state's workforce training program designed to help businesses upskill their new or incumbent workforce in collaboration with public community and technical colleges, workforce development boards, and Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service.

The Skills Development Fund (SDF) grant program has been instrumental in providing training opportunities to upgrade or support the creation of over 420,000 jobs in Texas since its inception in 1996.