Midland College (MC) is actively engaging with the citizens of Midland to advocate for a $450 million bond proposal. The college recently shared a video on Facebook featuring faculty, staff, and community members discussing the institution's challenges. According to MC, the current building space is limited, and the bond would enhance "our ability to continue serving the community we were created for."
Terry Gilmour, a professor of government at MC, emphasized that community colleges were established to provide services such as workforce training and academic studies. Gilmour said that the school excels in both areas. "There are a lot of needs with the oil and gas industry here in Midland, and we have to keep training those people to go into the workforce," she said.
Adrain Carrasco, from the Midland College Board of Trustees, highlighted the rising demand for jobs in the oil industry, which is crucial to the region. Carrasco noted that by 2040, an additional 180,000 jobs will need to be filled in this area. "So, we need to listen to industry and adapt those programs to the industry," he said.
Midland College continues emphasizing the importance of a skilled workforce as part of its campaign for voter approval of the bond measure set for consideration in May. Of the proposed $450 million bond, $277 million is designated specifically for career and technical education (CTE) programs. The college believes this funding will support its efforts to meet local workforce demands and improve campus facilities.