Lone Star College workforce programs target job industries with high projected employment growth, such as welding.[/caption]Types of programs
Workforce education certificates
• vary in length, designed to prepare student for occupational employment
• courses that have been industry-validated for developing and upgrading skills in an occupation
Associate of applied science degree
• two-year degree plan designed for students who want to quickly enter the workforce
• requirements vary from 60-72 credit hours, including general and workforce education
Industry outlooks
Engineering technician
• Median wage: $54,678
• Projected job growth rate (2014-20): 21.6 percent
HVAC and refrigeration
• Median wage: $38,953
• Projected job growth rate (2014-20): 31.8 percent
Nursing
• Median wage: $65,603
• Projected job growth rate (2014-20): 38.2 percent
Bond projects
Lone Star College officials expect to break ground in October on projects funded through a $485 million bond measure. The projects have been separated into three phases. Because of the system’s dedication to expanding workforce programs, six advanced technology centers are considered Phase 1 priorities. The centers are expected to be up and running by January 2017.
1. Computer Information Technology & Visual Communications Center
Details: 50,000-square-foot classroom space with high-level computing infrastructure
Campus: LSC-CyFair
2. Industrial/Commercial Construction & HVACR Center
Details: 50,000 square feet
Campus: LSC-North Harris
3. Process & Lab Technology Center for oil/gas/water programs
Details: 50,000-square-foot workforce training area
Campus: LSC-Kingwood
4. Transportation & Logistics Institute
Details: 15,000-square-foot space for classroom building and land for 18-wheeler cabs and trailers
Campus: LSC-North Harris
5. Drilling Platform Training Center
Details: 15,000-square-foot space for drilling rig, hydraulic fracturing and engineering technology
Campus: LSC-Tomball
6. Workforce Certification Assessment Center
Details: 25,000 square feet
Campus: LSC-University Park
