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HCC, Fort Bend chamber to cement workforce training partnership at ceremony

Mar 3, 2025

Houston Community College (HCC) and the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will sign an agreement solidifying a workforce training partnership at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 5, at the HCC Missouri City campus.

The event celebrates the successful collaboration between HCC and the chamber, along with other area higher education partners, in securing the Texas Reskilling and Upskilling Through Education (TRUE) grant. The grant is aimed at expanding workforce training programs in high-demand technology fields, providing residents with industry-recognized certifications and creating career pathways in the region.

HCC’s Digital and Information Technology Center of Excellence will use the funding to provide scholarships for residents seeking job-ready certifications in A+, Network+, and Security+. In addition to technical training, students will receive soft skills training to enhance their interpersonal and leadership skills.

“’This collaboration marks a major milestone in broadening access to career-focused education in our community,” said Michael Webster, Ph.D., president of HCC Southwest. “Through industry-aligned training and certifications, students will develop the skills necessary to secure high-demand jobs and drive economic growth in the region.”

Keri Schmidt, president and CEO of the Fort Bend chamber, said the partnership exemplifies a commitment shared between HCC and the chamber to strengthen workforce development in the Fort Bend County region.

“Together, we are creating pathways that connect education with in-demand skills, empowering our community and fueling economic growth,” she said.

Local officials, community leaders and high school principals are invited to attend the signing ceremony at HCC Missouri City campus atrium, 1600 Texas Parkway, Missouri City.

For more information or to register, visit https://hcc.idloom.events/FBCC-mou-signing-ceremony, or email kim.mccullough@hccs.edu or call 713-718-7868.