Coastal Bend College and Goodwill Industries of South Texas marked the official kickoff of a workforce training partnership during an event held February 27 at the Goodwill Rockport Store and Job Connections Center, designed to connect hands-on job training with college-recognized credentials and strengthen workforce pathways across the Coastal Bend region.
While the event symbolized the formal launch of the partnership, participants have already begun taking advantage of the opportunity to earn Continuing Education credit and Occupational Skills Awards (OSAs) that appear on an official Coastal Bend College transcript. The collaboration creates a direct bridge between workforce training and higher education, providing participants with portable credentials recognized by both colleges and employers.
“Our collaboration with Goodwill Industries of South Texas reflects Coastal Bend College’s commitment to meeting students where they are and providing flexible, accessible pathways to education and employment,” said Dr. Zachary Z. Suarez, President of Coastal Bend College. “By awarding Continuing Education credit and Occupational Skills Awards, we are helping participants translate hands-on training into credentials that support long-term career growth.”
Attendees also heard from Ashley McCowen, a program participant who shared her personal experience and the ways she feels the partnership has already benefited her, including increased confidence, clearer career direction, and the value of having her training formally recognized through college credit.
The kickoff event was attended by community partners and leadership, including John Owen, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of South Texas, underscoring the shared commitment to workforce development and economic mobility throughout the region.
The training programs supported through the partnership are aligned with regional employer needs, ensuring participants gain relevant, in-demand skills while receiving formal academic recognition. By documenting training on an official college transcript, the partnership strengthens the connection between workforce development and postsecondary education.
Looking ahead, the partnership also plans to host a special commencement ceremony later this year to recognize participants who have completed training and earned college-recognized credentials.
Learn more at coastalbend.edu/goodwill.
Photo credit: Edgar De La Garza, DLG Photography