Strengthening the Houston-area workforce: HCC supports GHP UpSkill Houston
Jun 25, 2014
Houston Community College announces its support of the Greater Houston Partnership (GHP) initiative UpSkill Houston an industry-led action plan that addresses the growing need for skilled workers in Houston and training them for tomorrow’s jobs.
A key characteristic of UpSkill Houston is connecting leaders from industry, education and social service organizations to address workforce challenges, to build a quality workforce that meets employer’s needs and to ensure that Houston-area residents have the skills and opportunities necessary to enter the workforce and build successful careers.
As a vital workforce education resource for the region, HCC welcomes the opportunity to work with local industry and community leaders to define the job market and education needs of the Greater Houston Area.
“HCC has been creating dynamic platforms for workforce development for more than 40 years, while at the same time creating pathways for our students to transfer to higher education,” said Dr. Cesar Maldonado, chancellor at HCC. “Through this collaborative partnership with business, industry and education, HCC will do its part to increase certification and degree completion rates and accelerate education development as much as possible.”
HCC has long been a leader in workforce training, offering short-term certificate programs and associate degrees to support the demands of the major industry sectors of the region and Houston’s growing economy. From oil and gas to manufacturing, healthcare, construction, maritime and petrochemical, HCC’s established programs, convenient locations and affordability provide easy access to in-demand training for skilled workers.
UpSkill Houston is a comprehensive plan that ensures that critical workforce needs and challenges are addressed. The initiative’s goals include raising awareness among potential workers and improving the quality of applicants through skills training and education. The initiative focuses on middle-skills occupations that require employee candidates to have more than a high school diploma, but do not require a four-year degree.
Houston currently lacks enough skilled workers to fill jobs that are readily available. HCC supports the Greater Houston Partnership (GHP) initiative UpSkill Houston and will be a strong partner filling the workforce gaps while creating rewarding careers for students.