The Austin Community College District has received a $1.5 million gift from Samsung Austin Semiconductor to support the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC at the Highland Campus.
“This partnership is transforming the way we prepare students for careers in engineering,” says ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart. “At ACC, we are committed to creating systemic change that removes barriers to opportunity and ensures every student has the support they need to succeed. Together with Texas A&M and Samsung, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive pipeline of engineering talent that will shape the future of our region.”
Samsung Austin Semiconductor’s $1.5 million gift underscores ACC’s commitment to creating affordable and accessible pathways for students. The funds will support scholarships, expand program resources, and enhance student services.
“Samsung Austin Semiconductor has had strong connections with both schools. We are excited to amplify these partnerships with a $1.5 million investment to the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at Austin Community College to inspire high school students to become engineers,” says Jon Taylor, executive vice president of Samsung Austin Semiconductor. “Our commitment to these schools will provide aspiring engineers the opportunity to pursue higher education without the higher cost. Access to these programs is crucial to boosting participation in engineering programs and fortifying Texas’ semiconductor ecosystem.”
The Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC, the first program of its kind, allows students to co-enroll at ACC and Texas A&M. Students complete their foundational courses at ACC, benefiting from small class sizes, personalized support, and state-of-the-art facilities before transitioning to Texas A&M to complete their engineering degrees.
Since its launch in 2017, the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC has enrolled 710 students, with 134 graduates since 2021. Currently, 327 students remain enrolled at ACC or Texas A&M, reflecting the program’s 65% retention rate.
