Whitehouse Economic Development Corporation staff reported Jan. 29 that they have connected with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) and Workforce Solutions and are now on TWC email lists to attend meetings and explore grant opportunities.
Staff said a TWC representative (Mr. Vanderbilt) indicated willingness to help with grant applications. As an example, staff cited a prior instance in which a culinary department received full kitchen equipment funded through such programs; staff proposed setting up meetings with the local school superintendent and the CTE director (named in the packet as Cindy) to identify needs and pursue funding for lab equipment or training aligned to employer demand.
The board discussed workforce development as part of the EDC's work plan, and staff said potential grants could help prepare students for local jobs and support employer recruitment. No specific grant applications were announced or approved during the meeting.