Tag Archives: HCC

Houston Politics

Houston Airport System, Community Colleges Announce Major Job Training Partnership

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Even as oil prices continue in an unpredictable turn, city leaders in Houston are soldiering on with bold new initiatives aimed for the future of Southeast Texas. In particular with the Houston Airport System, they are aiming high.

On what Mayor Annise Parker called “a great day for the City of Houston”, a new partnership was announced that plans to not only improve air and space travel, but also create a pathway to job training skills for area workers.  Spearheaded by Council Member Jerry Davis, the project’s initial goal will be training workers to build the new Terminal at IAH.  Here is more information via City of Houston press release…

HOUSTON – The Houston Airport System (HAS) is taking a major step forward in enhancing the levels of both safety and efficiency surrounding the various construction projects taking place at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and Ellington Airport (EFD).  A new training center is set to be built at an existing IAH warehouse, designed to enhance the skillset of various employees working on HAS-designated construction projects.

“Continuing education and training are important in just about every professional field but it’s especially vital in the area of construction,” says Houston Mayor Annise Parker.  “This new training center will help to ensure that our vital airport facilities are growing in a manner that’s both safe and efficient.”

Under the plan approved by Houston City council members on January 28, 2015, the Houston Area Construction Education Collaborative (HACEC) creates a mutually beneficial partnership between the Houston Airport System and the following institutions of higher learning: Houston Community College (HCC), San Jacinto College and the Lone Star College System.

After constructing the education training center, to be located along Lee Road at IAH, all employees working on  HAS-designated construction projects will be required to attend a mandatory training class where OSHA and Houston Airport System safety and security guidelines and requirements are laid out in a detailed fashion.  Contractor employees will be given a sense of what it’s like to work in a dynamic airport environment.  The center will also be available to those same employees as they look to upgrade their craft skills by receiving training in various construction-related fields.

“It is in the best interest of the Houston Airport System to have a well-educated, highly qualified workforce spearheading our various construction projects,” says Houston Aviation Director Mario C. Diaz.  “Whether that person is employed by HAS or a private sector company, they need to have a solid grasp on the skills that are needed to perform their job and that skillset needs to be constantly evolving.”

With a 200,000 student population among the three community colleges, the specialty workforce training center is likely to have an expert pool of talent to choose from.  But as was hinted in the press conference, the facility’s usefulness could go much further than a couple of major airport projects.  With rapid growth throughout Southeast Texas, this center has the potential to train many new construction workers that would start and the airport system, and take their skills and expertise to other area projects.

“Across the community, we have been discussing the fact the Houston has a booming economy even with lower oil prices.”  said Mayor Parker.  “There’s a lot of new construction going on, yet we have a gap in the workforce.  Contractors are literally cannibalizing each other to get their projects done.  At the same time, we have lots of folks across the community who are under-employed or unemployed, and would be perfect to fill in the gap.”

Long a voice for some of Houston’s most under-served communities, Council Member Davis seemed to sum it up best… “We talk about economic development. This is people development.” Programs like this one will hopefully serve to build a bridge for the abundance of young, under-employed workers out there looking for opportunities.  If you have an interest in construction work, go and sign up at Houston Community College, San Jacinto College or Lone Star College.  The city of Houston is ready to do some ‘people development’.

Per the Mayor, the center is expected to come online this year.

Check out the Mayor’s comments below…

 

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TLCQ 2013: Adriana Tamez

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In the Thirteenth installment of the 2013 Texas Leftist Candidate Questionnaire, we hear from Adriana Tamez , candidate for Houston Community College Board of Trustees, District 3.

Please note: Responses have been received directly from the candidate, and have been posted ver batim from the email received. This is done out of fairness to all candidates. Publishing these responses does not constitute an endorsement, but will be considered during the endorsement process.

TL: What is your name, as it will appear on the ballot? 



AT: Adriana Tamez

TL: Are you a current or former elected official? If so what office(s)? 



AT: NO

TL: As a political candidate, you clearly care about what happens in certain levels of government. In your own words, why is government important? 



AT: Government is important, since it is the mechanism and place where the voice of the people is to be heard and subsequently brought to life; however, it is vital to remember that this mechanism/place must be guided and structured according to the principles established by our Constitution.

TL: If elected, what is your top priority in office for the upcoming term? Describe how you plan to accomplish it. 



AT: I cannot single out one priority; however, there are three major areas that I have identified as top priorities to address upon election:

–The search, identification, and employment of a Chancellor

— Effected by implementing a transparent process to identify someone possessing the knowledge, skills and abilities that would best serve HCC,

— Agreement among the board that external and internal candidates must meet same criteria,

— Agreement among the board that there is no place for cronyism in the search/selection process;

— The alignment of HCC programs and practices to meet workforce demands, needs and development

— A comprehensive strategic plan, painstakingly created, that would necessarily include an honest assessment of current programs and services in relation to changing needs of students and business,

— Redesign of programs and services that are timely, regardless of past success – all programs and services must meet current and future needs, as well as potentially creating new income sources for HCC;

— The work to regain the community’s confidence and trust

— With the board as standard bearers, their work must be timely and transparent,

— The board must demonstrate through its productivity that it considers seriously the needs of the community and students in creating and implementing programs and services,

–The board must not engage in activities that would be cause for any suspicion of cronyism or self-serving for individual board members.

TL: As our nation’s educational and professional landscape continues to evolve in the 21st century, institutions like HCC stand to be a critical part of that important process. In your opinion, is HCC ready for the monumental changes coming to education? What can the system do to best prepare? 



AT: I believe every Houstonian can be proud of HCC’s work to-date; however, there are significant challenges awaiting a response by the HCC system. The nation’s educational and professional landscape is constantly changing, due in great part to the influences of an ever-expanding global community and marketplace. Additionally, the exponential development of technology presents a challenge to the HCC system. These two factors, alone, challenge HCC to strategically establish a fast track for becoming aware and well-informed of community residents’ needs to be well-prepared for career or continuing university studies. At the same time, HCC must nurture relationships and be engaged with local, state and national business leaders to remain abreast of latest workforce development trends and needs. Finally, HCC must accept the challenge to develop modes of delivery of its programs and services so they may be offered not only to the local community, but the global community, too.

TL: What makes you the best candidate for this office? 



AT: It’s time for me to give back, and I very much want to do so. I have extensive experience and knowledge in the K-12 system, including involvement with the P-16 initiative. I have been privileged to enjoy a senior level school district position with HISD, which catapulted my leadership skills to a level worthy of service on the HCC board.

TL: When not on the campaign trail, how do you like to spend your free time?

AT: My free time is spent with my son, as well as enjoying my parents and extended family.

Thanks to Dr. Tamez for her participation.

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TLCQ 2013: Robert Glaser

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In the Eleventh installment of the 2013 Texas Leftist Candidate Questionnaire, we hear from Robert Glaser, candidate for the Houston Community College Board of Trustees, District 5.

Please note: Responses have been received directly from the candidate, and have been posted ver batim from the email received. This is done out of fairness to all candidates. Publishing these responses does not constitute an endorsement, but will be considered during the endorsement process.

TL: What is your name, as it will appear on the ballot?

RG: ROBERT GLASER

TL: Are you a current or former elected official? If so what office(s)?

RG: NO

TL: As a political candidate, you clearly care about what happens in certain levels of government. In your own words, why is government important?

RG: GOVERNMENT PROVIDES SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES TO COMMUNITIES THAT ARE OFTEN NOT BEST OR PRACTICALLY PROVIDED BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR. IT PROVIDES A MECHANISM TO PROMOTE IMPORTANT PUBLIC VALUES.

TL: If elected, what is your top priority in office for the upcoming term? Describe how you plan to accomplish it.

RG: THERE ARE TWO THAT ARE AT THE ‘TOP OF THE LIST’. FIRST, RESTORE UNQUESTIONABLE INTEGRITY TO THE BOARD BY REVIEWING CURRENT ETHICS POLICIES AND IMPROVING THEM AS REQUIRED SO AS TO SATISFY COMMUNITY CONCERNS. SECOND, COMPLETE THE TASK OF SELECTING AND HIRING A NEW, PERMANENT, CHANCELLOR FOR THE SYSTEM BY SUPERVISING THE CURRENT SELECTION COMMITTEE PROCESSES AND ACTIVELY SEEKING OUT AND PERSONALLY INTERVIEWING QUALIFIED CANDIDATES FOR THE POSITION.

TL: As our nation’s educational and professional landscape continues to evolve in the 21st century, institutions like HCC stand to be a critical part of that important process. In your opinion, is HCC ready for the monumental changes coming to education? What can the system do to best prepare?

RG: HCCS IS ‘BECOMING’ READY. BY IMPLEMENTING THE EXPANSION OF TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR THE SKILLS NEEDED IN OUR LOCAL ECONOMY, EXPANDING THE ‘DUAL CREDIT’ PROGRAM FOR HS STUDENTS, AND INCREASING THE NUMBER OF CLASSES PROVIDING CREDITS THAT TRANSFER TO OTHER TEXAS PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES, HCCS IS RESPONDING TO THE NEEDS OF A 21ST CENTURY COMMUNITY. FOCUSING ON TECHNOLOGY TO BETTER DELIVER CURRICULUM AND TRAINING TO STUDENTS WITH DIVERSE SCHEDULES IS AN AREA THAT HCC MUST CONTINUE TO DEVELOP. HCC MUST ALSO LEAD THE WAY IN AFFORDABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY FOR ITS STUDENTS TO BEST SUCCEED IN THE PROGRAMS AND PATHS CHOSEN.

TL: What makes you the best candidate for this office?

RG: I AM A NATIVE HOUSTONIAN, A PRODUCT OF THE LOCAL PUBLIC EDUCATION SYSTEM AND HAVE LIVED IN THE DISTRICT ALMOST MY ENTIRE LIFE. AS A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS OWNER IN THE ENERGY INDUSTRY FOR OVER 25 YEARS, I EMPLOY SKILLED LABOR AND I UNDERSTAND THE NEED FOR A QUALIFIED AND SKILLED WORKFORCE IN OUR COMMUNITY. I ALSO UNDERSTAND THE FINANCES OF RUNNING AN ORGANIZATION AND AM SKILLED AT FOCUSING ON OBJECTIVES AND COMMITTING THE NECESSARY RESOURCES TO ACCOMPLISHING GOALS. BEING MARRIED AND HAVING THREE CHILDREN, I ALSO UNDERSTAND THE BENEFIT OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND HOW THE AVAILABILITY OF THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EVERYONE IN OUR COMMUNITY IS A BENEFIT TO OUR COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE. THE SKILL SET I WILL BRING TO THE BOARD WILL BE VALUABLE IN GUIDING THE INSTITUTION ON A PATH TO CONTINUING ITS MISSION FOR THE COMMUNITY.

TL: When not on the campaign trail, how do you like to spend your free time?

RG: I DIVIDE MY TIME BETWEEN MY BUSINESS, MY FAMILY, AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES.

Thanks to Mr. Glaser for his participation.

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TLCQ 2013: Neeta Sane

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In the Tenth installment of the 2013 Texas Leftist Candidate Questionnaire, we hear from Hon. Neeta Sane, incumbent Houston Community College Trustee, District VII. She is running for reelection.

Please note: Responses have been received directly from the candidate, and have been posted ver batim from the email received. This is done out of fairness to all candidates. Publishing these responses does not constitute an endorsement, but will be considered during the endorsement process.

TL: What is your name, as it will appear on the ballot?

NS: Neeta Sane

TL: Are you a current or former elected official? If so what office(s)?

NS: Yes, I am a current elected official. I was elected in 2007 to serve as a Trustee of Houston Community College (HCC) and I am seeking re-election to this public office. I represent HCC District VII which is comprised of Stafford, Missouri City and a portion of Alief. Alief was annexed into HCC system in 2008 with overwhelming support of the Alief Community. The annexation of Alief expanded the educational opportunities and workforce programs for the students and the community of Alief. More information is on www.NeetaSane.com

TL: As a political candidate, you clearly care about what happens in certain levels of government. In your own words, why is government important?

NS: I believe that in order to accomplish common goals for public good, it is necessary that government provides a platform for two major functions – 1) To uphold the values that take into account humanity, social justice and public safety 2) To ensure the growth of a society or a region in terms of productive populace and better means of living. That is why, I believe, government is important.

TL: If elected, what is your top priority in office for the upcoming term? Describe how you plan to accomplish it.

NS: Appointing a highly qualified and experienced Permanent Chancellor to lead day-to-day operations of HCC – I will continue to ensure that the Chancellor Search uses best practices including involvement of HCC’s stakeholders.

 Completing the 2012 bond program effectively– I will continue to provide governance and oversight on behalf of the constituents of HCC to ensure that 2012 bond program produces the desired outcome.

 Graduating more students for the 21st century academia and workforce – I will continue to strengthen the partnerships and dialogue that I initiated with area school districts and industry sectors. I will continue to work hard to ensure that students graduating from high schools are ready to take college-level courses and student graduating from college are equipped with knowledge and skills necessary for the 21st century job market.

TL: As our nation’s educational and professional landscape continues to evolve in the 21st century, institutions like HCC stand to be a critical part of that important process. In your opinion, is HCC ready for the monumental changes coming to education? What can the system do to best prepare?

NS: Yes, HCC continues to position itself well as one of the leading institutions in the educational and professional landscape. HCC continues to remain responsive to the regional needs for the academic and workforce training opportunities. By offering educational opportunities in over 70 different career pathways, HCC is paving the way for 1) industry sectors to have skilled workforce and 2) regional economies to have educated and productive base of citizens.

HCC also enables students to have workplace skills to succeed in the 21st century marketplace. HCC’s highly diverse student body plays a significant role in widening students’ educational and professional horizon enabling them to have experiences to interact with peers who have varied perspectives and backgrounds. These experiences are highly valued by the 21st century employers in the workplace.

HCC continues to collaborate with area schools and businesses to ensure success for our students in the classroom and in the workplace. HCC, being an affordable choice that offers quality education, continues to remain highly innovative in bridging the gaps in the educational and professional arena. As a dedicated Trustee of HCC, I have been instrumental in establishing productive partnerships for HCC.

Overall, it is crucial for the success of the students and the economy of our nation that we build a foundation that strengthens the educational pipeline from high schools to colleges to careers.

TL: What makes you the best candidate for this office?

NS: I am seeking re-election to HCC Trustee District VII. As a Houston Community College Trustee for the past six years, I have a proven track record of leadership, dedication and stewardship focusing on student success, faculty empowerment and community partnerships.

The following are the highlights of my leadership accomplishments that I believe exhibit my commitment to students’ success. I believe that my effective service to HCC, students and the community as a whole makes me the best suited candidate with six years’ experience as HCC Trustee.

My Leadership Accomplishments:

 –Propelled HCC to greater heights with the following programs in the growth areas  New educational and workforce initiatives – HCC Alief: Early College High School, UT Tyler Engineering Degree Program, Certified Nursing Assistance Program, upcoming Bissonnet Workforce Building, HCC Stafford: Fine Arts Center, Expanded Learning Hub, AAS degree in Logistics and Global Supply Chain Management, upcoming Stafford Workforce Building, HCC Missouri City: upcoming Center for Entrepreneurship, Health Sciences and Technology, Athletics and Intramural sports at HCC.  $140M investment for educational programs and buildings in HCC District VII

 –Instituted Workforce Support Scholarship for HCC Students

 –Instituted HCC-ASPIRE Scholarship Program in support of Diversity and Inclusiveness for HCC Students

 –Leadership Summit for Alief Early College High School Students

 –Workforce Summits to align HCC’s educational offerings with industry needs  Built Community & Industry Partnerships for HCC

Honors and Awards:

 -Special Congressional Recognition Certificate (2013) – from Congressman Al Green

 -Certificate of Recognition (2013) – from Harris County Judge Ed Emmett

 -Recognition & Resolution from State of Texas (2011) – from House of Representatives

 -2013 Greater Houston Service Award – from Volunteer Houston

 -2012 Leadership Award – from Asia Houston Network

 -2010 Minority Achievers Award – from YMCA

 -2010 Community Entrepreneur of the Year Award –from Asian Chamber of Commerce

 -2009 DiversityFirst Award – from Texas Diversity Council

TL: When not on the campaign trail, how do you like to spend your free time?

NS: When I have some free time, I spend as much time as possible with family.

Thanks to Ms. Sane for her participation.