TWC construction training begins
Marble Falls is growing, and that growth is good for business here, with new construction popping up all around town. But for some businesses, that growth can be a challenge.
Recognizing the challenge of too few licensed workers in the construction trades, in 2016 the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) included plumbers and electricians, along with other construction jobs, among those eligible for $1 million in training funds throughout the state. The funds were available to regional workforce boards, provided those funds were matched by local economic development organizations. The training they can provide will begin this month.
The Marble Falls Economic Development Corporation (MFEDC) took advantage of the opportunity. They partnered with the Rural Capital Workforce Solutions Board to receive a grant that will bring close to $30,000 in TWC training funds here, matched by an even greater investment by Marble Falls.
"The construction industry is among those we have targeted as part of our economic engine, vital to our continued growth," said Christian Fletcher, executive director of the MFEDC. "We want local businesses to benefit from our growth, but they can't do that if they don't have enough skilled workers."
The grant and matching funds from the MFEDC will make available close to 200 hours of Central Texas College credit courses for 12 plumbers and 12 electricians. A partnership between Central Texas College and the Marble Falls Independent School District opens the high school's building trades facility for evening classes. That partnership is essential to make the training available locally.
When the training is combined with on-the-job learning, students can be well on their way to gaining licensure in a trade that is in demand and well paid. The grant funding covers students' application for apprenticeship, a first step toward becoming licensed. And when students successfully complete the training, the grant will also provide them with some of the tools necessary for the trade.
For employers, the training provides an important boost for helping new employees learn quickly. For individuals, the training opens the door to employment with area businesses.
The first course begins the week of Feb. 20 for 12 plumbers. Each course requires a commitment of two 3-hour evening classes per week over a period of several months. "Interest is already high, so we encourage plumbing employers and interested individuals to let us know quickly if they want one of the training spots," says Celia Merrill, a member of Mickey West Career Assets, which is working with the MFEDC to implement the grant. To be eligible, individuals must be 18 years old and eligible to work in the U.S. The grant does not require low income-eligibility and is available for new hires of plumbing employers as well as unemployed adults or individuals working in other industries.
Call 830-798-7079 or 830-265-8024 for more information.
“Training for 12 electricians will begin in the summer, said Merrill. "We expect those courses to fill up quickly as well, so we encourage employers and individuals to sign up for those training slots soon."
