Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced more than $14 million in career-training grants for 52 educational institutions across the state.
The funding will help colleges and school districts in Texas train students for high-demand jobs in healthcare, manufacturing, and skilled trades.
The Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants address critical workforce shortages as Texas continues to expand its economy. Students will earn certifications and degrees that lead directly to employment opportunities with competitive wages.
“As our economy grows, Texas will continue to invest in the future of our workforce,” said Abbott. “This over $14 million in career training grants will help more than 6,500 Texas students gain the tools and skills they need to go from graduation directly into good-paying jobs.”
The Texas Workforce Commission distributed grants to 16 colleges and 36 school districts. Awards ranged from $46,297 to $366,917 per institution.
Major recipients include Grayson College, receiving $362,896 to train 198 registered nurses. Dallas College secured $164,350 for commercial truck driver training programs. Texas State Technical College in Red Oak received $354,099 to train 30 students as welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers.
Several rural school districts obtained funding for healthcare programs. Hearne ISD will train just five nursing students with its $344,985 grant, while larger urban districts, such as Duncanville ISD, will prepare 1,193 nursing assistants. Prosper ISD was awarded a $256,500 grant to train 1,146 students as nursing assistants.
“Through initiatives like the JET grant program, we are preparing our workforce to pioneer innovations and thrive on the cutting edge of industry,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza.
The grants target growing sectors including healthcare, welding, automotive repair, and information technology.
Equipment purchases will establish new training facilities and upgrade existing programs. Students can earn industry certifications without accumulating significant debt.
Applications for 2026 funding are now open through the TWC Procurement Portal. Public colleges, school districts, and charter schools may apply for equipment grants supporting career and technical education programs.