Denison – In a move that bolsters Texas’ commitment to skilled‑trade education, Governor Greg Abbott’s office confirmed on Oct. 12 that Grayson College has been awarded a $375,000 grant to purchase equipment for its heating, ventilation and air‑conditioning (HVAC) training program. The funding, provided through the Texas Workforce Commission’s Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) program, will support hands‑on instruction for 75 students pursuing careers as HVAC mechanics and installers.
State‑backed investment in local workforce
The JET program is designed to help Texas schools equip career‑training programs with the tools needed to meet the state’s growing demand for skilled labor. This grant is one of 84 awarded across the Lone Star State, totaling more than $20 million. By directing resources to community colleges like Grayson, the administration is ensuring that Texas families have access to well‑paid, stable jobs that do not require a four‑year degree.
Expanding opportunities for students and families
Grayson College’s catalog already lists HVAC, air‑conditioning and refrigeration courses at its main campus in Denison and its South Campus in Van Alstyne. With the new equipment, students will be able to earn certificates or associate degrees that lead directly to employment in a field that pays well above the national median wage. For many families in Grayson County, this represents a pathway to financial security without the burden of massive student loans.
Local impact and community support
Local business leaders have praised the grant, noting that a steady pipeline of qualified HVAC technicians is essential for both residential comfort and the region’s growing commercial sector. The training program aligns with the community’s traditional values of hard work, personal responsibility, and the dignity of honest labor.
Administration’s rationale
Governor Abbott’s office emphasized that investing in trade education is a cornerstone of the administration’s economic strategy. By equipping schools with modern tools, the state helps families become self‑sufficient and reduces reliance on federal assistance. The grant also reflects the administration’s broader effort to strengthen Texas’ workforce in industries that are critical to the state’s long‑term prosperity.
Looking ahead
Grayson College plans to roll out the new HVAC labs in the coming months, with enrollment opening for the fall semester. The college expects the enhanced program to attract students from across the county and neighboring regions, further cementing Denison’s role as a hub for skilled‑trade education in North Texas.
As Texas continues to prioritize career‑technical training, grants like this one demonstrate how state leadership, local institutions, and community values can work together to create real opportunities for families seeking a brighter future.
Original reporting: DenisonWeekly.news — read the source article.
