Mike Feinberg, co-founder of WorkTexas, emphasizes that equipping students with technical skills isn’t enough. Success requires a holistic approach that addresses barriers outside the classroom. WorkTexas, since its inception in 2020, has been a beacon for those seeking to enter fields like welding and carpentry. However, Feinberg and his team soon discovered that logistical challenges, such as transportation and childcare, can impede trainees from reaching their full potential.

WorkTexas actively collaborates with organizations to provide essential services. Partnerships with entities like WorkFaith Connection and the Wesley Community Center have been instrumental. These collaborations extend beyond skills-based instruction, encompassing soft skills and financial literacy, crucial for long-term success. Feinberg believes these partnerships are vital in ensuring that students not only gain employment but thrive in their careers.

Furthermore, Feinberg points out the importance of sustained support. WorkTexas commits to maintaining contact with graduates for at least five years. This ongoing relationship allows the program to track career progression and intervene when challenges arise. Feinberg notes that this connection is akin to job coaching, providing both technical advice and emotional support.

For Feinberg, it’s not just about placing students in jobs; it’s about building sustainable careers. This commitment is reflected in the proactive efforts to assist graduates with potential work-related issues. Regular check-ins every six months ensure that students have a reliable support system as they navigate their professional lives.

The success of WorkTexas underscores the need for comprehensive strategies in workforce development. Feinberg’s approach, integrating skill training with life support, highlights a model that other vocational programs might emulate. He is adamant that the future of skills training lies in addressing the complete needs of students, ensuring they are equipped to face the multifaceted challenges of modern employment.

In summary, Mike Feinberg’s leadership at WorkTexas demonstrates that successful skills training programs must extend beyond technical education. By addressing external factors like childcare and transportation and providing ongoing support, WorkTexas sets a precedent for holistic workforce development. Feinberg’s initiatives offer a promising path for similar programs aiming for long-term student success.