Skilling, Upskilling and Reskilling Our Community

by Frank Graves, Ed.D., Dean, Workforce and Public Service, McLennan Community College

Career-Building and Employee Recruitment Support with MCC’s Workforce Education Programs

At McLennan Community College (MCC), we make it our mission to provide Central Texans with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Our Workforce Education programs offer college degrees and career training that increase employability and occupational success. These programs not only provide short- and longterm educational opportunities, but they also play a vital role in meeting the specific educational and vocational needs of our community employers. With affordable tuition and flexible scheduling, MCC’s Workforce Education programs are designed to help students achieve their dreams. We believe that when our students succeed, our community thrives. Whether students are looking to gain new skills, start a new career, or simply take the next step on their educational journey, MCC’s Workforce Education programs provide the tools and resources needed for student success.

MCC’s Workforce Education programs are structured around pathways, which are designed to provide students with entry points to clear paths for in-demand occupations. Students choose from pathways including Health Professions, Business & Industry, Creative Arts, Public Services, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). MCC also offers Adult Education and Literacy programs, which focus on basic literacy and employability skills needed to enroll in a college program or to broaden employment opportunities for individuals.

At MCC, we are proud to offer a variety of health professions programs that lead the way in healthcare education and training. The high-quality instruction taught by our exceptional professors results in several programs earning 100% pass rates on licenser exams as well as 100% job placement rates year after year.

With 88% of the MCC student body residing in Central Texas, most MCC graduates intend to continue living and working in our community after graduation, which provides a pipeline for graduates seeking employment and for employers seeking qualified, well-trained applicants. These are just a few ways that MCC’s Workforce Education programs are making a positive impact in our community.

Workforce Education Students Persist and Succeed

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a student overcome the odds and earn a college credential. At McLennan Community College, we celebrate the achievements of our Workforce students at an awards ceremony each semester. Many of these students are working to support their families, maintaining their responsibilities outside of the classroom, and mastering the skills needed to complete their education. It’s an honor to showcase their achievements and help them reach their full potential. These are the stories that inspire us to continue our work in higher education. Every student deserves access to quality education, and we’re committed to making that happen.

Innovative Solutions for Talent and Workforce Issues

In a recent Central Texas Regional Workforce meeting, employers expressed the need for shorter training times, access to students, and challenges attracting and keeping quality employees. MCC’s goal is to increase engagement with industry partners by receiving consultation on program and curriculum development, on-campus access to students for employment opportunities, and assistance with recruiting students for internships. MCC has forged long-standing, strong partnerships with local companies to gain insight into their needs and overall outlook of the job market. With MCC’s Workforce Education programs, we strive to provide individuals with necessary skills and knowledge for success in a variety of industries, and employers have expressed confidence in the quality of MCC graduates.

Many employers also mentioned offering flexible schedules and incentives to attract and retain employees who want to further their education. McLennan Community College fully supports these efforts by providing several course options from face-to-face, hybrid, and online offerings. We believe that college should be accessible and affordable for everyone.

Partnerships to Offer Access to Quality, Affordable Education

In order to address the shortage of early childhood educators, MCC has partnered with the local Heart of Texas Workforce Board and developed an Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program. Through the program, students can earn a college degree while working full-time as an apprentice in an early childhood center. The “earn while you learn” strategy is designed to support working adults who may not otherwise have had the opportunity to pursue a higher education. MCC is committed to providing access to quality education and training that will lead to sustainable, family-supporting careers.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on our workforce. In response to this challenge, MCC sought Reskilling Funds from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. These funds will provide up to $2,500 per semester for students who were prevented from starting or continuing their college education due to the pandemic. With these funds, MCC is providing a highquality education to students who might not return and finish their education.

With MCC’s partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission on Skills Development Training Grant and the most recent release of the Heart of Texas Workforce Board Incumbent Funds, there are opportunities to provide customized training opportunities for businesses that need on-site training. Through MCC’s Corporate Training Department, companies are able to develop training plans to meet the immediate needs of their workforce utilizing state and local funds. For individuals seeking workforce training, MCC partners with Prosper Waco’s UpSkill Waco program to provide flexible and accessible skills training and job placement support in high demand occupations across McLennan county.

Finally, MCC has created stackable, short-term credentials to provide a pathway from Workforce Continuing Education courses to an associate degree. These stackable credentials may ultimately result in students obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s degree from one of our University Center partners like Tarleton State University or Texas Tech University. By taking advantage of stackable credentials, students can earn the education they need without spending a fortune.

The Future looks Bright for Workforce Education

The outlook for MCC’s Workforce Education programs is very encouraging. MCC understands the value of an industry recognized certificate and the many skills that can be obtained via short-term workforce continuing education. Additionally, the Waco Chamber of Commerce’s success in attracting new employers provides great opportunities for individuals seeking to enhance their skills to take advantage of the growing career opportunities. The future looks bright for individuals and local businesses participating in MCC’s Workforce Education. For more information, go to mclennan.edu/pathways. If you have general MCC questions call 254-299-8640 or email highlandercentral@mclennan.edu. Together – we can make a difference!