Lawmakers announce initiative to reskill and upskill workforce

Rep. Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound) and Sen. Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe) have filed the Texas Reskilling & Upskilling through Education Initiative, an investment in Texas community colleges and technical institutions to quickly reskill and upskill the Texas workforce and put Texans back to work in high-demand occupations.

Of the record number of Texans who lost their jobs and filed initial claims for unemployment, many lack skills to quickly reenter the workforce. The unemployment rate for individuals with a high school diploma or less remains significantly higher than for individuals with post-secondary credentials. As the current provider of more than 90% of credit-bearing career and technical education certificates, Texas community colleges are best positioned to close the skills gaps to good-paying jobs.

“Texas is a rapidly growing state, and our diverse economy requires a robust and prepared workforce to continue attracting investment and growth. The TRUE initiative will provide an edge to students seeking in-demand careers, and industry’s need for a 21st century workforce,” Creighton said. “The initiative was a unique collaboration and has attracted partners from all over the state.  I applaud everyone who worked on this bill, because TRUE will have a generational impact -- and will serve as a model for the rest of the nation to create a pipeline for students, workers and industry.”

Read more via Flower Mound Leader.