Hill College receives $75,000 grant from the Texas Higher Board of Education
Jessyca Brown
Monday, March 18, 2024 8:16 AM
Academics
Hillsboro, TX
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) recently awarded Hill College a $75,000 Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education (TRUE) grant as part of a $500,000 joint award for Dallas College, Hill College, and Paris Junior College that supports completion of a certificate and/or an associate degree from the Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA).
The goal of the TRUE Grant Program is to support public higher education institutions to create, redesign, and expand short-term workforce education and training programs in high-demand occupations. The grant received by Hill College will allow students to benefit from resources and tuition support for cybersecurity certification, which can lead to an Associate of Applied Science degree.
The funds received will provide smartboards for improved instruction for both online and interactive teaching, laptops for students to use, a dedicated instructor for programming and professional development, tuition support for students from lower-income families, curriculum and test vouchers through CompTIA, as well as marketing support.
By utilizing the resources CompTIA offers, Hill College students can access information and training from one of the leading advocates for information technology. In addition to their relationships with industry professionals, CompTIA works with academic institutions around the world to educate, train, and certify individuals in the technology field. Hill College students who graduate with a CompTIA A+, Network+, and/or Security+ certification will enter the workforce fully prepared to meet industry needs and standards.
“This grant will provide various benefits to Hill College students. By offering tuition assistance and exam vouchers, this grant effectively addresses a significant obstacle faced by our students on their path to obtaining certifications. The elimination of financial barriers opens doors for students who might otherwise be unable to pursue these credentials.
“Furthermore, this grant facilitates a seamless transition for our students from Continuing Education (CE) to academic credit, paving a clear pathway toward earning certificates or degrees. Through our Prior Learning Assessment Program, students can leverage their CE courses to advance along their academic journey.
“By equipping our students with industry-recognized credentials and college credit, this grant empowers them to gain essential workforce expertise for in-demand jobs. This not only enhances their employability but also provides a competitive advantage as they engage with industry leaders.
“The flexibility offered in scheduling and modalities accommodates the diverse needs of our students, allowing them to select options that align best with their individual schedules and preferences. This personalized approach contributes to their overall success and ensures that they can fully capitalize on the opportunities presented by this grant,” said Dean of STEM Dr. Alisa Carter.
The TRUE grant was established in the 87th Texas Legislature in an effort to provide funds for institutions of higher education for training in programs that teach in-demand skills and lead to industry certifications and workforce credentials. Funds are also geared toward redesigning and developing new industry-aligned certification and workforce programs as well as expanding enrollment and providing student aid.
Hill College is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. For more information on cybersecurity at Hill College, visit https://www.hillcollege.edu/CD/Cyber.html.