Training Texans for Skilled Trades Jobs Fast

Before joining Skillpoint Alliance, Mariah worked in security, where her schedule and hours changed week to week, and the work wasn’t always steady. She wanted a career that offered more predictable hours and higher earnings.

In five weeks, Skillpoint Alliance prepared Mariah for an HVAC technician role through hands-on training developed with employers hiring across Central Texas. Today, she works as a start-up technician with Houk AC, where she inspects and tests new HVAC systems before they reach customers.

Mariah’s story reflects a broader opportunity across Texas. Many adults are looking for ways to increase their earnings and advance their careers, while employers struggle to fill roles in electrical, HVAC, manufacturing, and plumbing fields.

Traditional training programs often take months or years to complete, cost thousands of dollars, and may not connect directly to available jobs. Skillpoint Alliance takes a different approach. It’s free, five-week training programs are built with employers hiring right now, so participants train for open positions companies need to fill today instead of training for jobs that may become available later.

Training Designed With Employers

Participants earn industry-recognized certifications, visit job sites, and train on electrical systems, HVAC equipment, and plumbing installations designed to reflect real working environments. They also receive mentoring and job placement support.

Employer connections shape every part of the program, creating a direct link between training and employment. As a result, 78% of graduates secure jobs after completing the program.

“What stood out then still stands out today — Skillpoint prepares students to enter skilled trades careers ready to learn and succeed on the job,” said George Drazic, owner of Efficient AC, Electric & Plumbing and chair of the Skillpoint Alliance board.

“Real-world experience matters in these fields. Skillpoint prepares students to learn quickly, while incorporating serious content in a short time. That’s why our company has continued hiring graduates from the program.”

Graduates earn an average of $3,600 per month after completing training, and increase their earnings by an average of 150%, quickly moving into careers with higher wages and opportunities for advancement.

Expanding Access Across Central Texas

Skillpoint Alliance is expanding training capacity in South Austin and New Braunfels so more Texans can access skilled trades training. The organization is upgrading facilities, hiring additional instructors and support staff, and operating up to three concurrent cohorts at each site.

The expansion will allow more qualified applicants to begin training while maintaining instructional quality and safety standards.

Creating Faster Pathways to Skilled Trades Careers

Texas continues to face growing demand for skilled trades workers across critical industries. Skillpoint Alliance is addressing that challenge through shorter, employer-connected pathways into careers that keep homes powered, buildings running, and communities growing.

For participants like Mariah, five weeks of training can open the door to more opportunities — connecting them to stable careers, higher earnings, and a pathway to long-term economic mobility. For employers, it creates access to trained workers prepared to step into essential roles faster.