Texas Workforce Commission Grant Empowers Students with Electric Vehicle Training
AUSTIN, Texas (September 3, 2026) – Austin Community College District (ACC) has been awarded approximately $330,000 from the Texas Workforce Commission’s Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) Grant Program. This funding will enhance hands-on training in battery-electric vehicle and fleet maintenance technology. TWC Chairman Joe Esparza presented the check during a ceremony at ACC’s Riverside Campus.
The grant enables ACC to acquire equipment that meets industry standards for battery-electric vehicle maintenance, providing students with essential real-world experience in the rapidly evolving transportation sector.
ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart emphasized the importance of practical training, stating, “Transportation is changing quickly, and our students need more than a classroom to prepare for what’s next.” He expressed gratitude to the Texas Workforce Commission for investing in the future of Central Texas and ensuring that students are well-equipped for the workforce.
Mary York, Division Director of Workforce Development at the Texas Workforce Commission, noted, “To keep Texas competitive, we must ensure our workforce training keeps pace with industry.” The JET Grant supports institutions in purchasing state-of-the-art equipment, aiding students in obtaining licenses and certificates for high-paying jobs.
The initiative aligns with ACC’s commitment to preparing students for careers in automotive technology and fleet maintenance. By collaborating with industry partners, ACC ensures that students gain hands-on training relevant to regional workforce demands.
Avery Herrera, a student in the ACC Automotive Technology program, highlighted the growing importance of electric vehicles. “When a new vehicle like a hybrid or an EV comes to a shop, it won’t be unfamiliar if you’ve had the training,” she noted, stressing the confidence gained through exposure to modern technologies.
The training equipment and program are based at ACC’s Riverside Campus, with plans for expansion to the Round Rock Campus.
The JET Grant Program is designed to help eligible institutions enhance their career and technical education offerings, paving the way for students to pursue licenses, certificates, or degrees in high-demand fields.
ACC’s efforts are part of a larger investment in expanding career pathways, with other recent JET Grant recipients including Hearne ISD and Lometa ISD.
For more information on ACC’s Automotive Technology programs, visit austincc.edu/autotech.
About ACC: Austin Community College District is a recognized two-year college in Central Texas, dedicated to student success and upward mobility. Through innovative programs and collaborative partnerships, ACC offers accessible pathways for students to achieve their educational and career goals, enrolling nearly 80,000 students annually.
