TJC receives $325,293 state workforce grant for Veterinary Technology program
Tyler Junior College received a $325,293 Jobs and Education for Texans grant from the Texas Workforce Commission to support training for veterinary technologists and technicians through the College’s Veterinary Technology program. The grant, previously awarded through the 2025 Jobs and Education for Texans grant cycle, was recognized Friday during a ceremony at TJC where TWC Commissioner Brent Connett presented the awards alongside state and local officials and TJC staff.
Left to right: Dr. Juan E. Mejia, TJC President and CEO; Dr. Adam Palacios, TJC North Dean; Jennifer Council, TJC North Veterinary Technology Department Chair; Commissioner Brent Connett, Texas Workforce Commission; Dr. Lee Grimes, TJC Associate Vice Provost; Dr. Deana Sheppard, TJC Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs; Amber James, TJC Director of Grants Development and Compliance; and Dr. Cliff Boucher, Dean of the TJC School of Engineering, Math, and Sciences.
The funding will help TJC purchase and install veterinary medical training equipment and is expected to initially support training for 27 students preparing for high demand careers in animal health care.
“These grants will provide students in East Texas the real-world training and technical education they need to have a successful career,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “The future of our state is in good hands because of the education we are providing to young Texans today.”
TJC President and CEO Dr. Juan E. Mejia said the grant reflects the college’s continued commitment to workforce education and meeting regional industry needs.
“This investment allows TJC to provide students with advanced training that prepares them for meaningful careers in the field of animal healthcare, in this case, our veterinary technicians,” Dr. Mejia said. “We are grateful to the Texas Workforce Commission and the state of Texas for supporting programs that strengthen the East Texas workforce and create gainful employment opportunities for our graduates.”
The ceremony also recognized several East Texas schools receiving JET grants, including Hawkins ISD, which received a $334,330 grant to train 20 students as emergency medical technicians in partnership with TJC, and Mineola ISD, which received a $274,989 grant to train 165 students as automotive service technicians and mechanics, also in partnership with TJC. Additional JET grant recipients included: Central Heights ISD, Frankston ISD, Kemp ISD, Kilgore College, Martinsville ISD, and Northeast Texas Community College.
Through programs like Veterinary Technology, Automotive Technology, and Emergency Medical Service Professions, TJC continues to prepare students for high demand careers with hands-on training, industry relevant experience, and workforce focused education that supports employers across East Texas and beyond. More information about TJC Workforce Training programs is available at TJC.edu.
Photos from the grant presentation ceremony are available at TJC.edu/2026JetGrantPhotos.
About TJC
Tyler Junior College is a comprehensive public community college located in East Texas. Currently celebrating its Centennial year, TJC was founded in 1926 and offers a wide range of programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate’s degrees, certificates, and workforce or vocational training. The College offers more than 135 programs of study in areas including arts, sciences, health professions, business, technology, and trades, helping both traditional students and adult learners.
TJC serves almost 20,000 students annually across its credit and non-credit programs, with more than 16,000 in credit programs and nearly 4,000 in continuing studies. TJC strives to provide an outstanding educational experience that prepares students for success in their careers and communities.
Throughout its 145-acre central campus and multiple sites, TJC features rigorous academics, 70 national athletic championships, stellar fine and performing arts programs, modern residential facilities, and organizations and clubs that promote student engagement and diversity.