City, TC to host EPA job training

TEXARKANA, Texas— The Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 recently presented the city with a $500,000 grant to provide environmental job training.

The city of Texarkana, Texas, and Texarkana College are collaborating to host a job training event along with EPA Region 6, according to a news release. The EPA Brownfields Job Training event will take place at 2 p.m. Thursday at TC’S Mccullouch Industrial Technology Center, 1222 Coolidge Ave.

The purpose of the event is to spread information about the program, its benefits to residents and its positive implications for regional employers.

Attendees will have the option to choose between two different job training tracks while learning about the program curriculum and courses offered.

Training programs include hazardous water operations and emergency response (HAZWOPER), HAZMAT, OSHA 10, first aid/cpr/bloodborne pathogens, CNC machinist and much more.

“This workforce development component of the EPA Brownfields Program will empower Texarkana by offering industry certifications to approximately 61 unemployed or underemployed residents,” Mayor Bob Bruggeman said. “This is important to our citizens as well as our local industry.”

The $500,000 grant from the EPA is specifically tailored to address the environmental challenges posed by brownfield sites while creating opportunities for area residents who are unemployed or underemployed, equipping them with crucial job skills necessary for an enduring career.

Mendy Sharp, executive director of community and business education at TC, is excited about the partnership for the event.

“We are thrilled to embark on this journey with the city of Texarkana, Texas, and EPA Region 6,” Sharp said. “This initiative underscores our commitment to nurturing individuals for rewarding careers, unlocking their potential,and fostering economic prosperity throughout our region.”

Daphnea Ryan, city grants administration manager, is elated about what will come from this event for the community.

“Over the past 14 years, the Brownfields Program has expanded and offers life-changing opportunities for our citizens,” Ryan said.

The event is free for the public to attend. For additional information, contact Ryan at 903-7983934 or dryan@texarkanatexas.gov.