Texas College Hosts Texas Construction Career Academy - KYTX CBS 19 Tyler Longview News Weather Sports

By Meghan McDermott

The recession forced many people out of highway construction, but federal stimulus funds are spurring a need for entry-level workers. Making the timing of Texas College's Construction Academy impeccable.

"It seemed like it would be very interesting to learn something different," said Vicki Britton-Hartsfield, a student at the Construction Academy.

Vicki Britton-Hartsfield is a stay-at-home mom wanting to return to the workforce.

"When they told us you can get certified in a couple of weeks I thought that would be a good opportunity to be able to go into a new career," said Britton-Hartsfield.

Britton-Hartsfield is part of this group looking for a better opportunity. Texas College is hosting the Texas Construction Career Academy. The course comes from Texas A&M University and it's partners at TxDOT and the Texas Transportation Institute. The first week is an introduction to heavy construction.

"They'll learn about the different equipment used in heavy construction. What potential entry-level positions are available to them," said James Holt, Project Coordinator for Construction and Safety for Texas A&M Systems.

On Friday, students will take the TxDOT certified flagger course.

"That means they're able to work on any highway or side roads, F.M., ranch roads for TxDOT," said Holt.

The second, and final, week will begin with a special course from the Texas Transportation Institute.

"They come in with other instructors and we teach them basic construction math," said Holt.

The Career Academy at Texas College wraps up with a resume building and mock interview workshop.