Press release from SWTX

10/24/24

UVALDE, TEXAS

  Southwest Texas College (SWTX) has announced plans to significantly expand its technical education offerings with the launch of Phase Two of its Tech Expansion Project. The project, approved by the college’s Board of Trustees on October 17, aims to enhance educational infrastructure and provide students access to in-demand career programs.

 Phase Two’s key components include expanding Del Rio and Eagle Pass programs.

  Chittim Technical Campus Expansion:

  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.

  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.

  Building on Phase One Success:

  Phase One of the Tech Expansion Project, which focused on building a new warehouse, relocating the Powerline Technology and Construction Science programs, and adding Diesel Technology Specialized in Heavy Equipment, Professional Truck Driving, Cyber Security, and Surgical Technology Programs, has been a resounding success. The project has involved the construction of new facilities, paving, electrical work, and other infrastructure improvements.

  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.”

  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.

About Southwest Texas College
  Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The company’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

   To learn more about SWTX, visit swtjc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtjc.edu.