Texas A&M-Kingsville Announces Broadband Workforce Development Award
Texas A&M University Kingsville
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS (News Release) - Texas A&M University–Kingsville hosted a special event Tuesday, Oct. 21, to announce a preliminary award aimed at expanding training and workforce development for Texas’ growing broadband industry.
The proposed funding, which has not yet been finalized, represents a major investment in the state’s efforts to boost economic growth and expand digital access.
Through the Building the Texas Broadband Workforce Grant Program, about $24.6 million in preliminary awards were designated for seven applicants across Texas. The grants will help enhance fiber optic training programs that certify Texans and strengthen the broadband workforce. The awards will not be finalized until all grant agreements are officially executed.
Photo courtesy of Texas A&M University Kingsville.
The four-year initiative will train broadband technicians through a statewide network of instruction and hands-on labs, focusing on upskilling and reskilling individuals in rural communities while also providing postsecondary pathways for high school graduates. Participants will earn stackable industry recognized credentials including NCCER, OSHA, and Fiber Optic Association certifications, preparing them for in-demand careers such as broadband installation, fiber splicing, wireless deployment, and network maintenance.
“This award is a transformative milestone for both Texas A&M University–Kingsville and the state of Texas,” said Dr. Robert Vela, President of TAMUK. “Expanding broadband access is not just about technology; it’s about, opportunity, and economic growth. WIRE positions TAMUK as the hub for preparing a new generation of skilled technicians who will connect our communities and close the digital divide.”
“As a local broadband provider, Rivera Telephone Company is honored to support this groundbreaking initiative,” said Bill Colston III, General Manager and President of RTC. “Our partnership with TAMUK ensures that the training aligns directly with the skills needed by technicians in the field. By investing in people, we are building a workforce that will expand broadband access and strengthen rural Texas.”
With federal and state initiatives driving broadband expansion, the demand for skilled technicians is expected to grow steadily over the next decade.
Graduates of the WIRE program will be prepared to secure competitive-wage careers that support their families while strengthening the economic future of Texas as well as pursue a four-year engineering degree.
Speakers at the event included Dr. Robert Vela, president of Texas A&M University–Kingsville, and Bill Colston III, general manager and president of Riviera Telephone Company.
The announcement took place in the Founder’s Room at Lewis Hall.
