NRG Energy is investing $103,000 in Houston City College to expand apprenticeship opportunities in instrumentation and controls, helping prepare students for high-demand careers in Texas' growing energy industry.
How will the investment expand opportunities for students?
Houston City College (HCC) has received a $103,000 investment from NRG Energy, Inc. to expand apprenticeship pathways in instrumentation and controls.
The programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on training developed alongside industry employers. Students will gain the technical skills needed to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot automated systems used in power generation and industrial operations.
HCC Chancellor Margaret Ford Fisher: "Industry is no longer simply advising higher education; it is helping shape it. Through partnerships like this with NRG, Houston City College is preparing students for careers that are in demand today while building the workforce Texas will need tomorrow."
Why is the partnership important?
NRG President of Wholesale Matthew Pistner said the company is looking for partnerships that can help develop the skilled workforce needed to meet the energy industry's growing demands.
NRG President of Wholesale Matthew Pistner: "NRG is proud to support the Houston City College Foundation with this donation that will help students gain real-world skills, prepare for rewarding careers, and help keep good jobs rooted in Houston."
The investment comes as HCC expands its broader workforce development efforts. The college recently received a $17 million investment from Bloomberg Philanthropies to expand apprenticeships, skilled trades training, and dual-credit opportunities for high school students. HCC is also working with the Lowe's Foundation through a Gables Grant to expand local training programs.
What does this mean for Houston?
HCC serves more than 100,000 students annually and operates 20 campuses throughout the Houston region. The college works with employers and industry partners to align workforce programs with the skills businesses need.
The partnership with NRG is intended to strengthen the pipeline of skilled workers entering Texas' energy sector while giving Houston-area students opportunities to gain practical experience and prepare for careers close to home.
