Austin, Texas—Skillpoint Alliance—a Central Texas 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides fast-paced, no-cost job training in the skilled trades to lower-income, underserved and under-accessed populations—announced today that the organization will receive approximately $100,000 from the Texas Workforce Commission that will support its “Veteran Workforce Outreach Initiative,” a program designed to help veterans improve their lives by attaining sustainable careers in the electrical, HVAC manufacturing and plumbing fields.
“For many veterans, transitioning to civilian life can be a difficult process that requires a dedicated support system,” Kevin Brackmeyer, CEO of Skillpoint Alliance, said. “The funding from the Texas Workforce Commission will allow us to offer our training programs free of charge to 50 veterans, helping them to successfully assimilate back into society by attaining recession-proof jobs that offer great pay, benefits and upward mobility.”
The Veterans Workforce Outreach Initiative is a partnership between Skillpoint Alliance and Helpers or Change, an Austin-based nonprofit organization that provides veterans and their families with assistance with employment placement, housing, financial literacy, counseling, and meals in a supportive and nurturing environment.
“At Helpers of Change, we are committed to creating an environment that encourages helping others, growing together and making a positive impact,” Regina Wiley, Director of Operations of Helpers of Change, said. “By partnering with Skillpoint Alliance, we can ensure that the veterans in our community have the tools and support they need to positively contribute to the local economy, and ensure they have access to the resources they need to lead a fulfilling life.”
The Texas Workforce Commission grant will cover the operating cost of Skillpoint Alliance’s manufacturing or skilled-trade training programs for 50 veterans.
The certified technician manufacturing program covers manufacturing safety, quality practices & measurement, manufacturing processes & production, and maintenance awareness. The course includes hands-on work with a CNC mill, soldering station, 3-D printer, VR headsets and a Skill Boss. Graduates will leave the course with their OSHA-10 safety certification and Lean Six Sigma White Belt certification.
The HVAC program covers basic construction and Level One HVAC Tech training. Students learn construction fundamentals which include construction math, tool safety, and job site safety. The program also includes hands-on experience and instruction on building codes, pipe fittings, diagnosing malfunctions, and air duct systems for commercial, industrial and residential buildings. Participants will obtain their OSHA 10 certification and assistance in applying for their HVAC Registered ACR Technician License from the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration (TDLR). At the end of the program, participants sit for their Environmental Protection Agency 608 Universal exam.
The pre-apprentice electrical program covers electrical safety, hand tools, power tools, and the differences between residential and commercial employment job functions. Participants obtain their OSHA 10 certification during the program and will receive assistance to obtain their Texas Department of Licensing and Registration (TDLR) Electrical Apprentice License.
The pre-apprentice plumbing program covers plumbing and construction math, safety, the proper handling of power tools, as well as the difference between various types of pipe—plastic, steel, and copper, and how to effectively build a drain-waste-vent system. Participants obtain their OSHA-10 certification and receive assistance in obtaining their Plumber’s Apprentice License from the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration/Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
Throughout each program, students will meet with potential employers, attend employer site visits, prepare resumes and cover letters, and participate in mock interviews. Upon completing the program, Skillpoint Alliance will leverage its vast network of employer partners to help graduates secure employment.
Participants of the Veterans Workforce Outreach program will also receive financial assistance to cover the costs of physical and mental health services, housing and utility services, childcare, transportation, and tools/work attire.
For more information about Skillpoint Alliance, please visit https://skillpointalliance.org/permian-basin/
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About Skillpoint Alliance
Skillpoint Alliance is a 501(c)3 workforce development organization that provides in-demand workforce training to vulnerable members of the Central Texas and Permian Basin communities. The organization partners with local industry to offer unique professional training and educational opportunities at no cost to participants. Skillpoint Alliance was founded in 1994 and has since become the premier provider of rapid workforce training in the nine-county area in and around Austin. Skillpoint Alliance works continuously to build strong partnerships with local businesses, foundations, community-based organizations, and government agencies in order to grow and support its mission of connecting low-income individuals with career pathways in growing local industries. In 2018, Skillpoint Alliance launched a redesigned and customized Pre-Apprentice Electrical class, followed by a Pre-Apprentice Plumbing program in 2019—and concurrently offers HVAC Technician training, Certified Production Technician, and various other short-term and customizable training options. www.skillpointalliance.org
About Helpers of Change
Helpers of Change is a dedicated 501c3 organization committed to empowering veterans and facilitating their transition into civilian life. Founded on the principles of compassion, support, and community, we provide a range of services including job placement, housing assistance, and personal development programs. Our mission is to offer veterans the tools and resources they need to thrive, fostering independence and success. With a statewide network of volunteers and partners, we strive to create meaningful change in the lives of those who have served. For more information or to get involved, visit our website, helpersofchange.now.site or contact us at 512-843-2598, ext. 2. “Honoring veterans through dedicated support.”