Articles
Let’s upskill to build a talent strong Houston
By Margaret Ford Fisher, Ed.D., Chancellor, Houston Community College
Nov 11, 2024
The United States has long been hailed as the land of opportunity, a place where individuals can improve their lives irrespective of their backgrounds. Whether through entrepreneurial ventures, inventions, talents and abilities, acquired skills or academic attainment, outstanding examples of such “Horatio Alger” success stories are all around us.
In a January 2024 article by Jesse Mendez entitled, “How the Most Successful People take Advantage of Opportunities,” Mendez writes that “most successful people come at life instead of life coming at them.” Community colleges such as Houston Community College (HCC) encourage students to “come at life” by making them aware of the bounteous options for education and training needed to qualify for in-demand, high-paying jobs in Houston and throughout the region.
A TALENT STRONG TEXAS
Recognizing the need for a talent strong Texas, the 88th Texas Legislature approved House Bill 8 which creates additional pathways for Texans to “come at life” and earn credentials that lead to high demand jobs and the opportunity for a better quality of life. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board aligned with this legislation by developing a strategic plan which acknowledges that the Texas economy is changing; therefore, employee skillsets must also change if the state is to have an available, well-trained talent pool to fill emerging jobs now and in the future. Texans must have opportunities to continuously improve their skills to be prepared for expanded openings that training creates.
A TALENT STRONG HOUSTON
If Houston is to remain “talent strong,” many more residents must seize the opportunity for education and training. Many who could benefit most from advanced skill training are already in the workforce but trapped in minimum-wage jobs. According to the United Way of Houston, 13% of households across Greater Houston are living below the federal poverty threshold, and another 31% are experiencing ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). These adults are hardworking but cannot afford basic necessities, those who can benefit most from short-term credentials the workforce needs. For them, HCC provides a systematic process to deliver “Just-in-Time” training when students need it, rather than at a scheduled time.
WHAT IS NEEDED
First, it is important that employers tell their employees about skills training that provides upward mobility. Employees need to know that if they invest the time at a community college, their employers will reward them.
Second, employer-sponsored scholarships to support current employees in the form of direct support or forgivable loans is also critically important for many who are marginalized. And company apprenticeships to ensure Just-in-Time training for staff and internships in collaboration with the local community college will help identify staff for these important jobs. Likewise, companies should take advantage of on-site training provided by the local college.
THE VALUE PROPOSITION
The value proposition is clear: everyone wins. Employers win with competent, reliable talent. Employees win through upward mobility and job security. Society wins as businesses succeed and individuals contribute to the quality of life in the community.
CONCLUSION
Clearly, Houston has a skills gap, the demarcation between the skills employers need and those their employees currently have. Yet, working together, business and higher education can address these gaps and create a talent strong Houston. Imagine the success of our economy and the bright prospects of our residents if we provide opportunities for the personal growth our underserved population deserves.
Let’s build a talent strong Houston by expanding workforce training opportunities to all.