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 percentBond 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-CyFair2. 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