IMPACT Project
Texas - IMPACT Project
Workforce Innovation Submitted By: Workforce Solutions for North Central Texas
Community Challenge/Problem
Texas is the 3rd largest user of H-1B visas and the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metropolitan Area (DFW) represents twice the share of employment in these sectors. The robust technology base of DFW and the continued growth of the information technology, research & development, and science sectors are major drivers fueling the region’s economy. A critical skilled labor shortage forces local firms to search the world for talent necessary to meet the need for innovation and expansion. Though unemployment rates have stabilized, they are still high, and as companies adjust to a reduced workforce, chronic unemployment continues for many workers without up to date skillsets.
Board Solution/Innovation
Workforce Solutions for North Central Texas partnered with local employers, (AT&T, IBM, Lockheed Martin, and Labinal) to form the North Texas IMPACT Project and was awarded the H-1B Technical Skills Training Grant to train and certify workers within IT and STEM-related occupations. The employer partners identified qualified incumbent workers who, with appropriate training, could be promoted to H-1B level positions, thereby avoiding the need to outsource the job or seek an H-1B visa holder to fill the opening.
The necessary training was provided by in-house training staff and North Central Texas College (NCTC). Participants qualified to obtain industry-recognized credentials which enabled advancement on a career pathway.
Outcomes & Results
The goal of the IMPACT Project was for 4,601 workers to begin training. The success of the project was more than impressive as 6,454 began training, 5,821 completed training, and 5,742 received a credential. The goal for average wages was $44.00, but at the end of the grant, the average wage of those who had completed the program was $48.70.
Besides exceeding its goals, the IMPACT Project provided a lasting benefit to workers, as well as value to employers. Sustainability was built into the IMPACT Project by providing a cutting edge Cisco Training Lab to NCTC which continues to produce a pipeline of qualified workers in North Central Texas to grow the IT and STEM regional industry.
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