Work begins on TC's newest facility

President: $1.2M center will house 4 programs designed to train workers in manufacturing fields

Brandon Washington, dean of workforce development at Texarkana College, speaks Monday at the groundbreaking for the school's Center for Workforce Innovation. The $1.2 million center will house four programs to train students for in-demand manufacturing jobs.
Brandon Washington, dean of workforce development at Texarkana College, speaks Monday at the groundbreaking for the school's Center for Workforce Innovation. The $1.2 million center will house four programs to train students for in-demand manufacturing jobs.

Texarkana College broke ground Monday on its $1.2 million Center for Workforce Innovation, a move that leaders say will help address upcoming workforce needs.

TC President James Henry Russell said the demand for manufacturing jobs is poised to increase and the four programs to be offered in the new building will train workers to take those positions.

"It's exciting to see not only what can come to the Texarkana area, but what we have right now," he said. "We're working to train a workforce to get ready for that."

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AP

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The 19,568-square-foot building will house four programs-construction technology, electrical technology, industrial maintenance/multi-craft and electronics technology/innovation.

Brandon Washington, TC's dean of workforce development, told the crowd gathered next to the site on Coolidge Street that the demand for manufacturing jobs is projected to increase.

"We're looking at a 19,000-square-foot facility that is geared towards manufacturing and meeting the needs of the statewide growth we're seeing," he said. "There's over 20 to 25 percent growth in manufacturing across the state of Texas in the next 10 years. It's a huge opportunity for the people in this community and everyone that's a part of Texarkana College."

He said that eventually they want to have both day and nighttime programs to teach students at all hours of the day.

"There are tons of employers out there," he said." With the employers involved with the 14,000 jobs in this area, we hope to meet that need and get these students trained, skilled and in a place where they can provide for their families. With the industry partners that come in, with the advisory boards to support us, they've had plenty of input on what those needs are so we an make sure they're addressed as well."

Joey Martin, owner of Express Employment Professionals, also addressed the audience, stating the new building was a huge step for the college in providing workforce skills and jobs for area students. He said he's seen TC partner with local industries to provide training through federal and state grants.

"They have been awarded to different industries so that they can make their employers stronger-be more competitive-but above all, be stronger employers and create more jobs for Texarkana," he said.

"One key ingredient is the workforce and to have Texarkana College leading the charge on this and our local school systems focusing on workforce, we're on a level playing field and we've got the best player in the game. Texarkana College."

The facility is expected to be completed by August.

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