The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has awarded The Houston Launch Pad a $297,194 Self-Sufficiency Fund training grant. The Houston Launch Pad partnered with Almeda-Genoa Construction, Williams Brothers Construction and ISI Infrastructure Services to help 150 individuals transition into the workforce from either dependency on public assistance. The grant will help provide job training in carpentry, concrete finishing, construction and heavy equipment operator occupations. Grant funding from the Self-Sufficiency Fund will also assist in developing the technical education and learning environment that will lead to industry recognized certificates and credentials.
“These grants lead to skilled training and future job opportunities which expands our state’s workforce, benefiting our communities,” said state Sen. Borris L. Miles.
“This grant partnership delivers workforce solutions that will help improve workers’ job skills and is an impetus for job creation for our communities,” said state Rep. Shawn Thierry.
“Skills grants deliver customized training solutions that help Texas employers and workers succeed in the marketplace,” said TWC Chairman Andres Alcantar. “This investment builds not only employee skills, but the capabilities of our community colleges to the benefit of employers and the community. We are pleased to make this investment.”
The Self-Sufficiency Fund provides funding to eligible training providers including nonprofit 501(c)(3) community-based organizations, Texas public community or technical colleges or the Texas Engineering Extension Service. The Self-Sufficiency Fund pays for curriculum development, instructor fees and certifications, training materials, certain work-related expenses for trainees and some training equipment for the six targeted industry clusters, including construction, logistics and transportation.
A team of experts from TWC’s Office of Employer Initiatives provides technical assistance at no charge to help streamline Self-Sufficiency Fund project development. The Outreach and Project Development Consultants work directly with grant applicants and training providers, Workforce Development Boards and economic development partners throughout the development of the project to ensure that participants receive specific, customized training that is required for occupations. For more information, contact the Outreach and Project Development Consultants at 877-463-1777, customizedtraining.solutions@twc.state.tx.us or locate resources on the TWC’s Self-Sufficiency Fund webpage.
The Houston Launch Pad contact: Program Director Prentice Goods, 281-507-6742 or pdgoods11@yahoo.com.