Warren ISD Awarded $298K JET Grant to Boost Welding Program

Warren Independent School District has been awarded a $298,470 grant to enhance its welding program, thanks to funding from the Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) program administered by the Texas Workforce Commission.

The grant, announced by Governor Greg Abbott’s office on June 12, is part of a $794,546 investment in Southeast Texas schools to support career and technical education (CTE) programs that prepare students for high-demand jobs. Warren ISD’s grant will specifically support the training of 60 students as welders in partnership with Lamar State College–Orange.

The JET grant will be used to purchase specialized welding equipment for Warren ISD’s Agricultural Mechanics program. This equipment is expected to provide students with hands-on experience aligned with industry standards in fields like construction, manufacturing, and agriculture. The goal is to prepare students for immediate entry into good-paying, high-demand careers following graduation.

According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the JET program aims to defray startup costs for CTE programs by funding training tools and technology that align with workforce needs. Grants are awarded to public community colleges, technical colleges, school districts, and open-enrollment charter schools to expand access to workforce training across Texas.

The funding awarded to Warren ISD reflects a broader investment in the region. Other recipients included Lamar State College–Orange, Lamar State College–Port Arthur, and Vidor ISD. Combined, the four awards total over $794,000 and are expected to help train more than 260 students in fields like nursing, welding, and commercial driving.

State Representative Trent Ashby, who serves House District 9—including Tyler County, where Warren ISD is located—congratulated the district on receiving the grant.

“This critical funding, over $635,000 combined [for Warren ISD and Angelina College], will be used to purchase welding equipment and help train students for high-demand careers in our region.”

The JET program is made possible through funding provided by the Texas Legislature each biennium. Additional grant awards are expected to be announced later this year.

Learn more about TWC’s JET grant program.