(HARLINGEN, Texas) – More than 240 high school seniors took a step toward their future studies at Texas State Technical College during the NC3 National CTE (career and technical education) Letter of Intent Signing Day event held on Thursday, April 10.
The celebration brought together school representatives, families, TSTC program team leads and staff members to honor the future students as they marked the start of their journey at TSTC’s Harlingen campus.
Applause echoed throughout TSTC’s Wellness and Sports Center as students proudly signed their letters of intent.
Each student was awarded a $1,000 scholarship to support their technical education in the fall. The scholarships were made possible by The TSTC Foundation through the support of the Harlingen Economic Development Corp. and the Rio-South Texas Education and Community Development Foundation (RSTEF).
Rafael Tapia, grant manager for RSTEF, said the scholarships will have a positive impact on the students’ educations in the region.
“RSTEF is focused on postsecondary education and workforce development in order for our region to have the skilled labor pool to sustain a vibrant economy,” he said. “The CTE scholarship aligns with our focus as it removes the obstacles for students to enroll and invest in themselves.”
Jesus Contreras, a senior at San Benito High School, will enroll in TSTC’s Diesel Equipment Technology program.
“Some family members work in the diesel equipment field, and I’m following in their career pathway,” Contreras said.
Carson Tamez, a senior at Raymondville High School, will enroll in TSTC’s Electrical Lineworker and Management Technology program.
“I feel we need more electrical lineworkers because of their purpose for serving the community,” Tamez said.
Eladio Jaimez, provost at TSTC’s Harlingen campus, said the event reflected the enthusiasm of future students who recognize the value of a college education.
“This event marks an exciting step toward the futures of these high school seniors, where they will gain the skills needed for rewarding careers in high-demand industries,” Jaimez said.
For more information about NC3 (National Coalition of Certification Centers), visit https://nc3.net.
Registration for TSTC’s summer and fall semesters is underway. For more information, go to tstc.edu.
