AUSTIN, Texas (KCBD) – Four area schools are among 84 recipients statewide of Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants, Gov. Greg Abbott announced. The grants total more than $20 million.
The grants, awarded through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), help schools buy equipment to start or improve career and technical education (CTE) training programs that lead to high-demand careers. In the first year, the new equipment will help train more than 7,400 students statewide.
The following area schools received funding:
Western Texas College: a $192,500 grant to train 30 students as heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers.Dawson ISD: a $200,207 grant to train 40 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses, in partnership with Navarro College.Lubbock-Cooper ISD: a $200,545 grant to train 170 students as HVAC mechanics and installers, in partnership with South Plains College.Paducah ISD: a $320,234 grant to train 35 students as first-line supervisors of production and operating workers, in partnership with South Plains College.
Funding is provided through the Texas Legislature. TWC uses JET grants to defray start-up costs for developing career and technical education programs for eligible applicants. Equipment funded through JET grants must be used to train students for jobs in high-demand occupations.
TWC will release the 2027 JET grant Request for Applications later this fall. Texas public junior, state and technical colleges, school districts, open-enrollment charter schools, the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and probation departments may apply.
TWC Chairman Joe Esparza said the funding supports workforce development across the state.
“A skilled workforce is essential to the success of Texas businesses and the strength of our economy,” Esparza said. “With more than $20 million in funding for career and technical education programs, TWC is investing the skills young Texans need to build their careers and ensure employers have the talent pipeline they need to thrive.”
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