Austin Community College District (ACC) conducted a noteworthy event marking a $1.5 million donation from Samsung Austin Semiconductor aimed at supporting the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC, hosted at the Highland Campus on Tuesday, February 18. This groundbreaking collaboration among ACC, Texas A&M University, and Samsung Austin Semiconductor offers a cost-effective and inclusive route for aspiring engineers while tackling a significant workforce demand in Texas.
“This collaboration is revolutionizing how we prepare students for engineering careers,” states ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart. “At ACC, we are dedicated to fostering systemic change that eliminates obstacles to opportunity and guarantees that every student receives the support required for their success. In conjunction with Texas A&M and Samsung, we’re establishing a more robust, inclusive pipeline of engineering talent that will influence the future of our region.”
“We greatly value the steadfast commitment from Samsung Austin Semiconductor and Austin Community College. This essential partnership enables students who may lack the means to relocate to Aggieland as freshmen to continue on their Texas A&M Engineering path,” remarks Dr. Robert H. Bishop, vice chancellor and dean of the Texas A&M College of Engineering. “Together, we’re preparing more students for prosperous careers in engineering and technology, directly addressing the state and national demand for engineers.”
The $1.5 million contribution from Samsung Austin Semiconductor emphasizes ACC’s dedication to establishing affordable and accessible routes for students. The financial support will fund scholarships, enhance program resources, and improve student services.
“Samsung Austin Semiconductor has developed strong ties with both educational institutions. We are thrilled to strengthen these partnerships with a $1.5 million investment towards the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at Austin Community College, aimed at motivating high school students to pursue engineering careers,” expresses Jon Taylor, executive vice president of Samsung Austin Semiconductor. “Our pledge to these institutions will give aspiring engineers a chance to pursue higher education without the financial burden. Access to these programs is essential for increasing participation in engineering fields and bolstering Texas’ semiconductor industry.”
About the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC
The Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC, pioneering in its approach, enables students to co-enroll at both ACC and Texas A&M. Students undertake their foundational courses at ACC, enjoying smaller class sizes, individualized support, and cutting-edge facilities before transitioning to Texas A&M to complete their engineering education.
Since its inception in 2017, the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC has admitted 710 students, with 134 graduates since 2021. Presently, 327 students are still enrolled at ACC or Texas A&M, indicating a retention rate of 65% for the program.
Demand for Engineering Jobs
The Academy will be instrumental in training engineers, which is vital as Texas experiences rapid growth in technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure. As indicated by the JobsEQ Occupational Report, engineers in Texas have an average salary of $118,200, with job openings in various fields including Civil, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, Petroleum, and Aerospace Engineering.
With over 154,000 engineers currently working in Texas and an anticipated annual growth rate of 1.8%, the necessity for engineering professionals is evident. The Engineering Academy is uniquely equipped to fulfill these needs while providing avenues for students to secure well-compensated and rewarding careers.
“Engineers are central to innovation,” states ACC Provost Dr. Monique Umphrey. “By supporting this initiative, we’re responding to the pressing workforce need while equipping students with the skills and knowledge they require to excel in their fields. Our collaboration with ACC and Samsung ensures that more students gain access to this opportunity, contributing to meeting the crucial demand for engineers statewide.”
For additional information about the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC, please visit austincc.edu/engineeringacademy.
The article Samsung Austin Semiconductor Supports Texas A&M Engineering Academy At Austin Community College With $1.5 Million Gift was first published on Texas A&M Today.