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The Workforce of Tomorrow
DCOA Manufacturing Certification
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The DCOA created a Manufacturing Certification for the Abilene Region. The custom curriculum is facilitated by Texas State Technical College, Hardin-Simmons University, and the Texas Manufacturers Assistance Center. In conjunction with a $20,000 matching grant by the DCOA to receive the Texas Workforce Commission’s High Demand Job Training Grant, this will train up to 20 individuals at no cost to the participant.
Workforce Study by Site Selection Group
In 2022, the DCOA commissioned a workforce study by Site Selection Group to provide insight and define opportunities for growth in Abilene’s workforce.
A $35,000 matching grant was committed by the DCOA for the Texas Workforce Commission’s Industry Partnership Grant. Key highlights of strategic recommendations and opportunities include:
Abilene’s Inaugural Military Spouse Professional Network
In 2022, the DCOA, the Dyess Air Force Base Military and Family Readiness Center and the Military Affairs Committee launched the Military Spouse Professional Network. The network provides spouses of military personnel with career development and networking opportunities.
Further enhance and invest in education and training
Childcare Study by Crescendo
In partnership with the Community Foundation of Abilene for Thrive ABI, the DCOA commissioned a $35,000 childcare study to gain insight and define the main childcare issues our local Type A Businesses face.
What’s Next? - Senior Event
A day for graduating seniors to assist in developing a plan for life after high school.
Participants included:
105 Students
14 School Districts
15 Employers
6 Post-Secondary Partners
Commissioner Aaron Demerson Visit
Texas Workforce Commissioner Aaron Demerson visited Abilene to tour local manufacturers and discuss under-served labor populations.
The DCOA invited local Type A companies to a reception to speak with Commissioner Demerson on ways to create and retain a viable workforce.
World of Work
The DCOA sponsored the World of Work (WOW) event, a career and post-secondary exploration fair for high school students in the Abilene Region.
Participants included:
2,000+ Students
45 School Districts
40 Employers (14 manufacturers)
18 Post-Secondary Partners
The DCOA owns and operates two business and industrial parks for the benefit of promoting Abilene as the premier location for business expansion. We are leveraging our available sites and land in order to support company growth and expansion.
