In a groundbreaking move, Texas is reshaping its educational landscape to better prepare its workforce for the future.
The passage of House Bill 8 in 2023 marked a significant shift in how the state supports community colleges, which are pivotal in driving economic mobility. With nearly 700,000 students enrolled annually, these institutions contribute approximately $9.8 billion to the state’s economy and support around 78,000 jobs.
“The Texas Miracle is fueled by the collaboration between education, government, and the private sector. This partnership is essential in developing a skilled workforce for the future,” said Michelle Thomas, head of philanthropy for JPMorgan Chase in Texas.
The recent legislative session saw further advancements with Senate Bill 1786, signed into law by Governor Abbott. This legislation aims to refine and enhance the state’s workforce education system.
Key features include:
· Strengthening Credentials of Value: Ensuring that credentials align with high-wage, in-demand careers.
· Enhancing Workforce Data: Providing improved regional labor market insights to align community college offerings with local workforce needs.
· Improving Career and Technical Education Funding Coordination: Enhancing collaboration on workforce education funding among key state agencies.
· Expanding Access to Opportunity: Rewarding successful transfers to higher education institutions and expanding dual credit access.
Miguel Solis, President of The Commit Partnership, highlighted the significance of these changes by saying, “This outcomes-based model reflects our statewide goal of having 60 percent of Texans aged 25 to 34 earn a degree, certificate, or other credential of value by 2036. It positions Texas as a leader in aligning workforce education goals with resources.”
The Texas Association of Community Colleges, Texas Tri-Agency Workforce Initiative, and Texas Commission on Community College Finance, along with partners like Texas 2036 and The Commit Partnership, have been instrumental in supporting these advancements. JPMorgan Chase, with over 30,000 employees in Texas, has been a key player, promoting these reforms and investing over $500 million nationally in career and wealth-building opportunities since 2020.
“JPMorgan Chase is committed to creating a prosperous job market where everyone can access the credentials, skills, and real-world experiences needed to advance their careers,” Thomas said.
For more insights, visit JPMorgan Chase’s “What Works” report on expanding high-quality career pathways in Texas.
Related
2025-08-25 16:12:00