Sanger Industrial Development Corporation Launches Workforce Grant to Strengthen Career and Technical Education

A check for $234,075 is presented to Sanger Independent School District to launch the Sanger Workforce Achievement Grant (SWAG)—a groundbreaking initiative aimed at expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities for students.

The Sanger Industrial Development Corporation (SIDC), in partnership with the Sanger Education Foundation and Sanger Independent School District (SISD), proudly announces the launch of the Sanger Workforce Achievement Grant (SWAG)—a groundbreaking initiative aimed at expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities for students.

With a total grant allocation of $234,075, SWAG directly invests in programs that equip students with industry-relevant skills, ensuring they are workforce-ready upon graduation. The grant will support automotive, business marketing, and cosmetology programs, aligning educational opportunities with high-demand industries and fostering economic growth in the Sanger community.

Expanding Career Training for Sanger’s Future Workforce

CTE programs play a vital role in building a skilled workforce that supports Sanger’s economic development. Currently, Sanger ISD offers 15 CTE programs, 80 courses, and 33 industry certifications, providing hands-on training in fields that lead directly to employment. Through SWAG, students will gain greater access to state-of-the-art facilities, a modernized curriculum, and expanded industry partnerships.

Key Program Enhancements:

• Automotive Technology – Expansion of the automotive training facility, repurposing the former Sanger Middle School gym into a fully equipped space to better prepare students for careers in transportation, logistics, and distribution.

• Business Marketing – Development of a curriculum focused on entrepreneurship, marketing, and graphic design, giving students a competitive edge in various business sectors.

• Cosmetology – Establishment of a new, in-house cosmetology center, eliminating the need for students to travel to North Central Texas College (NCTC) and tripling enrollment capacity.

A Collaborative Approach to Workforce Development

The SWAG initiative reflects a strategic collaboration between the SIDC, Sanger ISD, and the Sanger Education Foundation. They share a vision of strengthening career pathways for students while supporting the needs of local businesses.

“By investing in career and technical education, we are not only empowering students with the skills they need for success, but we are also ensuring that Sanger remains a thriving hub for business and industry,” said Shani Bradshaw, Director of Economic Development for the City.

Jennie Flaa, Deputy Superintendent of Sanger ISD, emphasized the importance of this initiative for students and the local workforce. “Our students deserve access to the best possible career training opportunities, and SWAG ensures that they graduate with the skills and certifications needed to thrive in high-demand industries. This investment in career and technical education will create lasting benefits for our students, their families, and the entire Sanger community.”

The program also fosters mentorship networks, internship opportunities, and job placement services by partnering with local businesses to bridge the gap between education and employment.

Building a Stronger Future for Sanger

By aligning education with workforce demands, SWAG ensures that students graduate with valuable industry certifications, positioning them for immediate career opportunities. This initiative also strengthens Sanger’s economic landscape, providing local employers with a pipeline of skilled, job-ready professionals. Additionally, it allows students to offer services such as cosmetology and automotive repair at a reduced rate to the community while under the supervision of professionals in a classroom environment, giving them hands-on experience while benefiting local residents.

For more information on the Sanger Workforce Achievement Grant and how to get involved, please contact Shani Bradshaw at sbradshaw@sangertexas.org or Valerie Foster at vfoster@sangereducationfoundation.org  or visit https://sangertxedc.org/workforce/SWAG.

About Sanger Industrial Development Corporation

The Sanger Industrial Development Corporation is dedicated to fostering economic growth by supporting workforce development, local businesses, and community-driven initiatives. By investing in education and industry partnerships, the SEDC continues to create opportunities that benefit both residents and employers in Sanger.