Community Connections: HCC opens new center to train for manufacturing jobs
Nov 26, 2014
Houston Community College is creating a new pathway to jobs that support new development and construction in Houston. HCC recently opened the new Alief Construction Technology Center at the Bissonnet campus, which provides students certification in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, industrial electricity, plumbing, carpentry and autoCAD.
This new center focuses on training students for gold collar careers, which are jobs in the manufacturing field.
"With the increased demand for qualified, skilled workers, HCC is providing the training that's needed to keep the city working," said Dr. Cesar Maldonado, HCC chancellor. "It's our job in higher education to be the leader in delivering what students of all ages need to achieve success."
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment outlooks from 2010 to 2020 for HVAC, electrical and plumbing are growing faster than the average for most occupations due to construction demand, retirement of more experienced workers and stricter laws with environmental concern.
HCC is committed to being the model of what it means to bridge the gap between the state and community colleges in the Alief district by providing a facility that's adaptable. "We are engaged with leaders in business, industry, and in our community to create a 21st century workforce," said Dr. Zachary Hodges, acting vice chancellor of Academic Affairs.
Alief ISD believes its district of 4,600 students will benefit tremendously from the new Alief Construction Technology Center. So much so, that in two to three years there may be a need for another facility.
"Alief ISD students needed a facility that allowed and designed for those who were left out in the community to make a meaningful wage and contribute back to the community," said HD Chambers, Alief ISD superintendent. "HCC has taken the lead in providing Alief the opportunity to train and become part of the growing demand of construction workers."
To learn more and to become part of the growing workforce, visit hccs.edu.