Southwest Texas College press release
Southwest Texas College announced plans Thursday to significantly expand its technical education offerings here with the launch of Phase Two of its Tech Expansion Project.
The project, approved by the college’s board of trustees on Oct. 17, aims to enhance educational infrastructure and provide students access to in-demand career programs.
However, for Del Rio’s state representative, who helped write the bill that brought the money to the college, it goes even deeper.
“Vocational and trade school opportunities like this will reap substantial benefits that will empower the continued economic growth for the region,” said Texas Rep. District 74 Eddie Morales (D-Eagle Pass). “Our vision is for the border to be the next frontier for investment and opportunities that will catapult the state to even higher economic success.”
Del Rio Campus Expansion:
Welding and Construction Science Program: A 12,000-square-foot building will be constructed to house these programs, addressing the need for skilled workers in these industries.
Power Line Technician Program: A 20,000-square-foot Power Line Tech pad will be developed to support the launch of this program, which will offer students practical training in this essential field.
“This is the largest expansion of our technical education programs we have had here,” said Connie Buchanan, vice president of the SWTX Del Rio campus. “We now offer nursing, cyber security and aviation, and we are looking to expand even more in the near future.”
The Eagle Pass program’s technical education program also got additional support.
Chittim Technical Campus Expansion in Eagle Pass:
Cosmetology Program: A new 7,000-square-foot building will be constructed to accommodate the growing demand for cosmetology education.
HVAC Program: A dedicated 7,000-square-foot facility will be built to support the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning program, which will provide students with hands-on training.
Law Enforcement Academy: Move the program to the Eagle Pass Annex campus.
SWTX President Dr. Hector Gonzales expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This expansion is a testament to our commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities and programs, we are equipping our students to become leaders in their chosen fields.”
Gonzales added, “We are grateful for the leadership of Tracy King, Texas State Representative District 80, whose efforts in the legislature were instrumental in securing a $5 million special appropriation in state funds to expand the college’s technical programs.
“The college also extends its sincere thanks to Texas State Senator Roland Gutierrez and Texas State Representative Eddie Morales for their unwavering support throughout the legislative process, ensuring the funds were included in the final state budget. This critical funding will play a pivotal role in advancing SWTX’s mission to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in today’s job market,” Gonzales added.
During the November 2023 board of trustees meeting, SWTX board members voted to approve the first phase of a tech expansion project.
The in-house build process cost is $1.5 million of the $4 million set aside for the first phase of its tech expansion. The $2.5 million difference came from state funds allocated to help develop technical programs in the Southwest Texas region.
