The big picture
According to a news release, current service area jurisdiction rules prevent TSTC from providing their programming without the established district community college first declining to serve as the educational provider. HB 4997 gives TSTC the ability to bring new programs without going through the process of offering right of refusal each time.
“The expansion of TSTC to our region through the passage of HB 4997 is a huge win for our residents and businesses,” said Josh Schneuker, executive director of economic development for the city of Seguin. “Texas State Technical College will immediately become a vital economic development asset in our region and help fuel economic prosperity by equipping individuals with the specialized skills and knowledge demanded by evolving industries.”
The backstory
The bill was led by state Rep. John Kuempel and supported by Sen. Donna Campbell and Rep. Carrie Issac and has received formal resolutions of support by the city of New Braunfels and Seguin, according to a news release.
“I applaud the leadership shown by our elected delegation on this important matter. Chairman Kuempel led the way by authoring the bill and through his role as chairman of the House Higher Education Committee,” said Jonathan Packer, president and CEO of the New Braunfels Chamber. “Sen. Campbell took the lead in the Senate, ensuring that we are able to provide the technical trade training that our residents need.”
A closer look
TSTC offers over 40 programs and degrees, including in engineering and manufacturing, aviation, computer and information technology and health care.
A two-year program from TSTC where students receive both classroom education and company-based training by a sponsoring employer called the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education, or FAME, is anticipated to begin in August at the existing Central Texas Technology Center in New Braunfels.
“We are thrilled that the Texas Legislature advocated for a new campus of Texas State Technical College in the Comal/Guadalupe counties region,” said Mike Reeser, chancellor and CEO for TSTC. “This region is fast growing and contains an enviable concentration of industrial employers who employ skilled Texans in great-paying jobs. Texans who seek such positions will find TSTC as a fast and affordable pathway toward their occupational goal.”
More information about TSTC can be found at www.tstc.edu.
