Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced a substantial investment in workforce development with a $138,000 Skills Development Fund grant to Victoria College. This grant, awarded by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) last Friday, is earmarked for tailoring training programs specifically for the petroleum and coal products manufacturing sector, benefiting over 100 current and new employees of Seadrift Coke.

"As the Best State for Business, investments in our workforce are critical for the success of the next generation of Texans," Governor Abbott stated, according to an official press release. This grant aims to offer the aforementioned workers the specialized training necessary to flourish in their respective careers. The Governor also highlighted his commitment by mentioning workforce training expansion as an emergency item during his State of the State Address.

In a statement obtained by the Governor's office, TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel lauded the grant's benefits. "This grant helps create a skilled workforce by providing Victoria College with resources to supply customized training for over 100 workers," said Daniel. The Skills Development Fund is designed to assist businesses in upskilling or reskilling their workforce, meeting the demand for skilled labor in Texas. TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III presented the award to the benefactors in a ceremony at the Emerging Technology Complex of Victoria College.

Since its establishment in 1996, the Skills Development Fund has played a key role in the state's efforts to strengthen the local workforce. The program has joined forces with over 4,800 employers, assisting in the upgrade or creation of more than 420,000 jobs statewide, as per the announcement by the Governor office. The announcement highlights Texas's commitment to equipping its workforce with the necessary skills to meet the industry's evolving demands, ensuring economic growth and sustainability.