Governor Greg Abbott today announced two Skills Development Fund grant awards for $567,597 and $303,206 to Del Mar College by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) in partnership with Gulf Island Services and ArcelorMittal, respectively. The more than $870,000 in awards will provide customized training for more than 460 employees and students in fabrication, construction, mechanics, raw material operations, and laboratory technology.
 
"The State of Texas continues to build tomorrow’s workforce by investing in programs that provide customized training opportunities for Texans looking to jumpstart their career in high-demand industries," said Governor Abbott. "With these Skills Development Fund awards, Del Mar College will increase upskilling educational programs for Texans in the Coastal Bend region looking to improve their skills in the Texas steel and offshore drilling industries. I thank the Texas Workforce Commission and Del Mar College, in partnership with Gulf Island Services and ArcelorMittal, for their collaboration in expanding opportunities for hardworking Texans to unleash their full potential and meet the needs of our state’s growing economy." 
 
“The Skills Development Fund grants help Texas employers develop their workforce to meet technological advancements and improve efficiencies needed for today’s economy,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “TWC congratulates Del Mar College for being an important partner in the economic growth and development of the Coastal Bend.”
 
Del Mar College’s customized training programs will also include courses in offshore welding, petrochemicals, and process technology.
 
Earlier today, TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson presented the awards to representatives from Del Mar College and businesses partners at a ceremony held in Corpus Christi.
 
The Skills Development Fund grant program has provided training opportunities in partnership with more than 4,800 employers to upgrade or support the creation of nearly 420,000 jobs throughout Texas since the program’s inception in 1996.