Collin College has received a three-year, $318,000 grant from the Capital One Foundation to create a Technology Career Pathways Preparation Academy. The creation of this academy is expected to strengthen employment and transfer of skills for Collin College students into high growth technology businesses and industries, said Jennifer Blalock, vice president of workforce & economic development at Collin College. The grant is scheduled to kick off spring 2017 with information sessions with the collaboration of several Collin County community-based organizations and technology businesses. "I can't think of a more meaningful investment in Collin County's economic development,” Blalock said in a statement. “We are so excited to start building a strong foundation for our community's success, centered on bridging the skills gap and equipping our workforce with the highest quality academic and technical career training." The Capital One Foundation provides funding to support programs financial education programs, community development, school improvement and early childhood education. Those interested in the program should contact Blalock at [email protected].