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Nearly $1 million in state workforce grants is headed to programs serving Bastrop County and surrounding communities, part of a $7 million investment announced last month by Gov. Greg Abbott.
The Texas Talent Connection grants, administered by the Texas Workforce Investment Council, support education, skills training and job placement programs for Texans facing workforce barriers, according to officials. Four local programs were among the total 27 recipients.
“The Texas economy soars to new heights because of the hard work and dedication of our young and skilled workforce,” Abbott said in a statement. “These grants will allow more Texans to acquire the skills they need to succeed in high-demand careers.”
Locally, the Rural Capital Area Workforce Development Board received $236,709 for the second year of its Rural Pre-Nursing Readiness and Education Program. The funds will help connect underserved rural residents with employer partnerships and educational pathways toward nursing degrees.
The Smithville Workforce Training Center received $350,000 for the first year of its Auto Works Technician Program.
The center will offer automotive technician training to workers in Bastrop, Caldwell, Fayette and Lee counties to improve the pipeline of qualified workers and employers, officials said.
American YouthWorks was awarded $200,000 for its effort with area residents ages 16-24, offering no-cost pre-apprenticeship training for those not enrolled in school or employed.
Skillpoint Alliance also claimed $200,000 for the first year of its IGNITE project, which looks to guide students transitioning from electrical pre-apprenticeship into registered apprenticeship programs.
“As we train our future workforce, Texas will remain the economic engine of the country,” Abbott said.
