Enrollment at Texas State Technical College West Texas has increased significantly this fall. As of August 27, 2013, there are 1,331* students enrolled at TSTC West Texas. In fall 2012 the college enrolled 810 students.

“The increase in enrollment means that we are in a good position to help meet the workforce needs for the state of Texas,” said Gail Lawrence, TSTC West Texas President. “TSTC West Texas is focused on training these students with the skills necessary to find a quality career.”

At the Sweetwater campus, two new programs launched this semester aimed at providing qualified skilled workers for the oil and gas industry.  The Downhole Tool and Pipe Welding programs were developed with input from local oil and gas representatives. Both are fast-track programs, one and two semesters respectively.

Additionally, the Welding Program (located at the Breckenridge and Brownwood campuses) and Diesel Technology (located in Sweetwater) have seen significant growth since the start of classes in 2012. Both programs have a wait list for the spring 2013 semester.  At the Abilene campus Computer Aided-Drafting and Emergency Medical Services have an increased number of students compared to fall 2012.

* This number is uncertified until final reports are available later this semester.