Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has announced a Skills Development Fund grant exceeding $137,000 awarded to El Paso Community College by the Texas Workforce Commission. This grant aims to provide customized training for over 65 new and incumbent employees of Vinton Steel, LLC in heavy and civil engineering construction.

“Texas continues to provide training opportunities for Texans looking to jumpstart their career in high-demand industries,” said Governor Abbott. “That’s why I made expanding career training an emergency item for this legislative session. This grant will enhance the skills of over 65 new and incumbent employees in heavy and civil engineering construction careers in El Paso. Investing in our workforce is all part of the better jobs and bigger paycheck opportunities that we provide for Texans.”

“This SDF grant will help workers in the El Paso area to pursue successful careers, earn higher wages, and boost the Texas economy,” stated TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “Grants like the one awarded today help upskill the workforce to fill high-demand occupations such as heavy and civil engineering construction.”

The award was presented earlier today by TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III during a ceremony at El Paso Community College, attended by representatives from Vinton Steel and other local partners.

In related news, Governor Abbott recently celebrated Career and Technical Education Month, highlighting achievements in job training programs across Texas. Last week, he announced Vinton Steel as the fourth project under the Texas Jobs, Energy Technology, and Innovation program.

The Skills Development Fund is a state initiative designed to help businesses enhance their workforce through partnerships with community colleges, workforce development boards, and technical services like Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service. Since its inception in 1996, the program has collaborated with over 4,900 employers to create or upgrade more than 420,000 jobs across Texas.