Programs Develop Workforce Across Many Platforms
Published Dec 04, 2008
As the energy sector in Texas booms, well-trained workers for it and related industry clusters are at a premium.
Enter Texas State Technical College Waco, which is earning national rankings for its computer and information science, mechanics and repair, transportation pilot and engineering programs.
The college has more than 100 associate degree programs, as well as certificate programs for those looking for a shorter stay on campus or to augment skills already in place.
Now more than ever, the ability to anticipate the region’s economic development picture and add to or create programs to meet those needs has been key to TSTC’s success, says Jan Osburn, director of marketing and communications.
“Texas State Technical College students are in high demand,” Osburn says.
The need is so great in many industries, such as welding, automotive and air conditioning, that companies often hire students before graduation, she says.
According to Innovate America, U.S. Council on Competitiveness, the number of jobs requiring technical training is growing at five times the rate of other occupations.
The American Welding Society, Osburn notes, says companies are facing a dire shortage of skilled welders, a situation that is only getting worse.
Researchers estimate that more than half of the industry’s highly trained work force is nearing retirement, creating a potential shortage of more than 200,000 skilled welders by 2010.
“A shortage of workers with specialized skills combined with changes in technology and an aging population have left many industries on the brink of an employment crisis,” she says.
TSTC already has laid the groundwork for multi-company partnerships with employers such as Caterpillar, CORD Inc., Chrysler, Toyota, John Deere, Zyvex Corp., L-3 Communications and the Texas Recreational Vehicle Association.
“The college’s course curriculum is developed in conjunction with more than 700 industry advisory members, ensuring that TSTC graduates have the technical education and skills needed for today’s technical workplace,” Osburn says.
International giants such as Bechtel and Fluor come back to the college year after year to hire trained TSTC students. Going forward, the school will be delving into new and emerging technical program areas such as fuel-cell technology, home technology integration and nanotechnology, Osburn says, adding that current high-performing programs will continue to get the backing they need.
“Through hands-on instruction, and utilizing industry-standard equipment, TSTC helps prepare technicians in the areas of agriculture; information technology and telecommunications; engineering and manufacturing; health and science; business, commerce and service; and transportation and aviation,” she says.
Story by Joe Morris
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