Dr. Robert H. Bishop addresses attendees at an event celebrating the support of Samsung Austin Semicon Doctors at Texas A&M Engineering Academy at Austin Community College.
Emily Oswald/Texas A&M Engineering
Austin Community College District (ACC) held a special event to celebrate a $1.5 million gift from Samsung Austin Semicon Doctor to support the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC on the Highland Campus on Tuesday, February 18th . Samsung Austin Semiconductor also provides affordable and accessible routes for aspiring engineers while addressing the critical workforce needs of Texas.
“This partnership is changing the way students prepare themselves for engineering careers,” says ACC Prime Minister Dr. Russell Lowry Hart. “ACC is committed to removing barriers to opportunity and creating systematic changes to ensure that all students have the support they need to succeed. With Texas A&M and Samsung, we , building a stronger, more comprehensive pipeline of engineering talent that will shape the future of our region.”
“We are grateful for the unwavering support from Samsung Austin Semiconductor and Austin Community College. This pivotal partnership lacks the resources to move to Aggieland so that freshmen can continue to embark on their Texas A&M engineering journey. It means students who may be.” “Together we equip more students for a thriving career in engineering and technology, addressing the state and national demands of engineers.”
(LR) Tim Smith II, John Taylor, Andy Brown, Quie Run Theo, Dr. Robert H. Bishop, Dr. David Fonken, Dr. Nan McCraven, Jeffrey Go, Justin Bryant, Gigi Edwards • Bryant, Dr. Russell Lowry Hart, and Dr. Manny Gonzalez.
Emily Oswald/Texas A&M Engineering
Samsung Austin Semiconductor’s $1.5 million gift highlights the ACC’s commitment to creating affordable, accessible routes for students. The funding supports scholarships, expands program resources and enhances student services.
“Samsung Austin Semiconductor has strong connections with both schools. Jon Taylor, executive vice president of Samsung Austin Semiconductor, said: “Our commitment to these schools is It offers aspiring engineers the opportunity to pursue higher education at no higher costs. Access to these programs is important for enhancing participation in engineering programs and strengthening the Texas semiconductor ecosystem is.”
About ACC’s Texas A&M Engineering Academy
The first program of its kind, ACC’s Texas A&M Engineering Academy, can co-register with ACC and Texas A&M. Students complete basic courses at ACC and benefit from small class sizes, personalized support and cutting-edge facilities before moving to Texas A&M for an engineering degree.
Since its launch in 2017, ACC’s Texas A&M Engineering Academy has registered 710 students with 134 alumni since 2021. Currently, 327 students are enrolled in the ACC or Texas A&M, reflecting the program’s 65% retention rate.
Demand for engineering jobs
The Academy will play a key role in preparing engineers as Texas continues to experience explosive growth in technology, manufacturing and infrastructure. According to JobSeq’s occupational report, Texas engineers earn an average salary of $118,200, with opportunities in multiple fields, including private, industrial, mechanical, electrical, oil and aerospace engineering.
With over 154,000 engineers employed in Texas and forecasting annual growth of 1.8%, the need for engineering talent is clear. The Engineering Academy is uniquely positioned to meet these requirements and creates pathways for students to achieve a well-paid, meaningful career.
“Engineers are the backbone of innovation,” says Dr. Moni Kuunfrey, Provost, ACC. “By supporting this program, we are enhancing the tools and knowledge needed to help students lead their field while addressing the needs of the urgent workforce. Partnership with ACC and Samsung “This will allow more students to access the opportunity and meet the critical needs of engineers across the state.”
For more information about ACC’s Texas A&M Engineering Academy, visit austincc.edu/engineeringacademy.
