Grayson College Celebrates Completion of First Bond Project: Newly Renovated Electrical Engineering Technology Lab
Grayson College (GC) passed a $456,500 bond in May 2024, and today proudly celebrates the completion of its first bond project with the official ribbon cutting for the newly renovated Electrical Engineering Technology (EET) Lab. The state-of-the-art facility, now encompassing nearly 7,000 square feet, features cutting-edge equipment and technology, designed to provide students with the hands-on learning experiences necessary to excel in the high-demand semiconductor industry.
The renovation, valued at approximately $1 million, includes approximately $1.5 million in advanced tools and equipment, one-third of which was funded through grants, including the prestigious state JET grant. This newly equipped lab will serve as a hub for GC’s award-winning EET program, recently recognized as the 2024 TACTE Program of Excellence. It is also part of a broader effort to help prepare students for careers in the semiconductor and manufacturing automation sectors, which continue to see rapid growth in North Texas and beyond.
The Electrical Engineering Technology program at GC equips students with the skills and training needed to succeed in the rapidly expanding semiconductor industry, a sector critical to North Texas’s economic development. The program was developed through collaboration with leading industry partners such as Texas Instruments, Global Wafers and Coherent, as well as participation in the North Texas Semiconductor Workforce Development Consortium. This consortium, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, includes five local community colleges, including GC, and plays a central role in workforce development as part of the Texoma Semiconductor Tech Hub, recognized by the Economic Development Agency.
Instruction began in August 2023 with a pilot group of 24 TI employees on the South Campus in Van Alstyne, most of whom completed their training in August 2024. The program was moved to open enrollment in Spring 24.
“We are proud to open this newly renovated lab, which will provide our students with cutting-edge tools and technologies to train for high-paying careers in the semiconductor industry,” said Dr. Jeremy McMillen, GC President. “This is just the beginning. The support we’ve received from our industry partners and the local community through the bond, grants and collaborative efforts has set us on a path to help shape the workforce of tomorrow.”
The EET lab also reflects Grayson College's ongoing commitment to providing accessible education to diverse student groups, including adult learners, dual credit students and industry professionals. Through flexible scheduling options, including full and part-time options, GC ensures that all students have the opportunity to advance their skills and careers. The EET program offers certifications in areas such as Universal Robots, NC3 Electrical Basics, Mechanical Systems, Hydraulics, Pneumatics and Industry 4.0.
As part of its forward-thinking initiatives, Grayson College continues to foster relationships with key industry players like Global Wafers America/Globitech, Coherent and Texas Instruments, enabling further program expansion and an even greater impact on workforce development in the region.
For more information, visit the EET Program Webpage.