Skillpoint Alliance's Successful Workforce Development Programs Receive Funds for Second Year

AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Workforce Commission has awarded a $500,000 Workforce Development grant to Skillpoint Alliance for the second consecutive year to develop and implement Gateway rapid training and employment programs. Skillpoint Alliance, a nonprofit organization serving Central Texas, and Austin Community College have delivered the nationally acclaimed Gateway Construction program since 1994. In January 2010, Skillpoint expanded the program with Gateway Electrical. Since 2010, Gateway has again expanded programming to include workforce training in plumbing, HV/AC, Certified Nurse Aide, Certified Medication Aide, Office Administration and Bookkeeping.

All Gateway programs provide intensive, high-quality instruction and award industry-recognized credentials for entry-level jobs. Additionally, Skillpoint Alliance works with state and local veterans’ organizations to recruit qualified military veterans, especially those who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, to serve as program instructors. Funds provided through last year’s grant went towards implementing Gateway Allied Health Programs, training 108 people in Medical Office and Insurance Billing. Funds from this year’s grant will be used to bolster Gateway’s existing slate of programs, develop new programs and reach people from more rural, lower income areas who otherwise could not be served.

“For 17 years, Gateway Construction has given participants hope by building their confidence and self-esteem, and putting them on a path toward financial stability and independence,” said Margo Dover, executive director of Skillpoint Alliance. “We’re so pleased to be able to offer Gateway programs to more Central Texans in more trades.”

Along with Skillpoint Alliance, Workforce Solutions – Capital Area and Rural Capital Area, area workforce boards, Goodwill, and other social services providers will recruit Gateway participants and target individuals who need a second chance, including those who are under- and unemployed, homeless, recovering addicts, former offenders and receiving public assistance.  Longtime Gateway partner Austin Community College will assist with the development and delivery of Gateway programs and Skillpoint Alliance and its industry partners will support Gateway graduates with self-sufficiency skills so that they can gain employment into entry-level jobs.