Forestburg Independent School District has been awarded a substantial $131,838 grant from the Texas Workforce Commission to establish a comprehensive welding training program for students. The initiative will train 33 students in welding skills through a partnership with North Central Texas College's Gainesville campus. The grant represents a significant investment in workforce development for rural Cooke County, addressing the growing demand for skilled welders across North Texas. By partnering with NCTC's established career and technical education programs, Forestburg ISD students will gain access to industry-standard equipment, certified instructors, and hands-on training that prepares them for immediate employment or further education. This Texas Workforce Commission funding is part of a broader state initiative to expand career and technical education programs in rural school districts. The investment recognizes the critical need for skilled trades workers in Texas and the importance of providing students with alternative pathways to career success beyond traditional four-year college degrees. The partnership between Forestburg ISD and North Central Texas College exemplifies effective regional collaboration in education. NCTC's Gainesville campus brings decades of experience in technical training, while Forestburg ISD provides the community connections and student population that will benefit from these expanded opportunities. Welding represents one of the most in-demand skilled trades in Texas, with consistent job opportunities in construction, manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure sectors. Graduates of the program will enter the workforce with marketable skills and industry certifications that command competitive wages. The program is expected to launch in the coming academic year, with recruitment and enrollment details to be announced by Forestburg ISD administration.