Austin Community College District (ACC) hosted a special event celebrating a $1.5 million gift from Samsung Austin Semiconductor to support the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC at the Highland Campus on Tuesday, Feb. 18. This innovative partnership between ACC, Texas A&M University, and Samsung Austin Semiconductor provides an affordable and accessible pathway for aspiring engineers while addressing a critical workforce need in Texas.

“This partnership is transforming the way we prepare students for careers in engineering,” says ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart. “At ACC, we are committed to creating systemic change that removes barriers to opportunity and ensures every student has the support they need to succeed. Together with Texas A&M and Samsung, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive pipeline of engineering talent that will shape the future of our region.”

“We appreciate the unwavering support from Samsung Austin Semiconductor and Austin Community College. This pivotal partnership means students who might otherwise lack the resources to move to Aggieland, as freshmen, can continue to embark on their Texas A&M Engineering journey,” says Dr. Robert H. Bishop, vice chancellor and dean of the Texas A&M College of Engineering. “Together, we’re equipping more students for thriving careers in engineering and technology, directly addressing the state and national demand for engineers.”

Samsung Austin Semiconductor’s $1.5 million gift underscores ACC’s commitment to creating affordable and accessible pathways for students. The funds will support scholarships, expand program resources, and enhance student services.

“Samsung Austin Semiconductor has had strong connections with both schools. We are excited to amplify these partnerships with a $1.5 million investment to the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at Austin Community College to inspire high school students to become engineers,” says Jon Taylor, executive vice president of Samsung Austin Semiconductor. “Our commitment to these schools will provide aspiring engineers the opportunity to pursue higher education without the higher cost. Access to these programs is crucial to boosting participation in engineering programs and fortifying Texas’ semiconductor ecosystem.”

About the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC

The Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC, the first program of its kind, allows students to co-enroll at ACC and Texas A&M. Students complete their foundational courses at ACC, benefiting from small class sizes, personalized support, and state-of-the-art facilities before transitioning to Texas A&M to complete their engineering degrees.

Since its launch in 2017, the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC has enrolled 710 students, with 134 graduates since 2021. Currently, 327 students remain enrolled at ACC or Texas A&M, reflecting the program’s 65% retention rate.

Engineering Job Demand

The Academy will play a crucial role in preparing engineers, which is critical as Texas continues to experience explosive growth in technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure. According to the JobsEQ Occupational Report, engineers in Texas earn an average salary of $118,200, with opportunities in multiple fields, including Civil, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, Petroleum, and Aerospace Engineering.

With over 154,000 engineers employed across Texas and projected growth of 1.8% annually, the need for engineering talent is clear. The Engineering Academy is uniquely positioned to meet these demands while creating pathways for students to achieve well-paying and meaningful careers.

“Engineers are the backbone of innovation,” says ACC Provost Dr. Monique Umphrey. “By supporting this program, we’re addressing the urgent workforce need while empowering students with the tools and knowledge they need to lead in their field. Our partnership with ACC and Samsung ensures that more students can access this opportunity and help meet the critical need for engineers across our state.”

For more information about the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at ACC, visit austincc.edu/engineeringacademy.