Workforce Solutions Capital Area announced its “Hire Local” plan this week, which includes 1,000 free training scholarships for Central Texas residents. These scholarships are available for recent graduates exploring post-high school career plans or others looking to upskill in their current careers.
“We’re proud to share such a sizable solution for closing the gap between the number of local jobs available and the amount of skilled workers qualified to fill them,” Tamara Atkinson, CEO of Workforce Solutions Capital Area, said. “These scholarships will provide 1,000 Austinites with the opportunity to gain valuable skills in our most in-demand industries that will open doors for them in one of the most booming job landscapes in the country.”
The Hire Local initiative will encourage Austin-area employers to look within the local community for highly qualified and skilled labor. Workforce Solutions will assist in providing that labor through their training and certification programs, with support from Travis County and the City of Austin.
“It is inspiring to witness such a groundbreaking initiative that ensures there is qualified, skilled labor in Central Texas,” said Travis County Commissioner Jeff Travillion. “Travis County has an enviable pipeline of talent supporting our wide range of industries, and we’re thankful to Workforce Solutions Capital Area for their dedication to bringing that level of talent to new heights.”
Khalyl Woodson, a graduate of Pflugerville High School, current Galen College of Nursing student, and a recent recipient of a scholarship to receive a Patient Care Technician certification, spoke to the significance of the support.
“I first heard about Workforce Solutions Capital Area from my teachers at PISD,” Khalyl Woodson, the scholarship recipient, said. “I’m so thankful to my educators for guiding me to this organization that has supported me in working toward my goal of becoming a registered nurse so I can really make a difference in this community.”
The scholarship applications are currently open and are available for those interested in careers in tech, manufacturing, healthcare, skilled trades and more.
