WC receives $66,500 JET grant for robotics training equipment
Weatherford College received a $66,500 Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant from the Texas Workforce Commission this month to purchase advanced robotics training equipment.
The funds will be used to purchase a Sprout humanoid robot for instruction in a robotics interfacing course, part of the college’s Robotics and Automation program. The robot will provide students with hands-on experience in robotics interfacing, programming, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair.
The 3.5-foot-tall humanoid robot features programmable motors that control arm, waist, knee and foot movement, allowing it to walk in multiple directions and navigate stairs. Students will use industry-standard programming languages, including Python and C++, while working with robotics operating systems commonly used in commercial and industrial applications.
The state awarded 84 JET grants this month totaling more than $20 million. The grants help schools purchase equipment needed to launch or expand career and technical education programs that lead to high-demand occupations.
“Students deserve a clear and affordable path to high-paying careers,” said Texas Governor Gregg Abbott. “By investing in our students today, we are building a stronger Texas for generations to come.”