This week, the Partnership highlighted the Texas Legislature’s work to deliver a new pathway for college, career, and military readiness in public schools. House Bill 120 expands programs that enable high school students to focus on career-oriented education. Building on that foundation is House Bill 20 (HB 20), which prescribes the types of high-growth, high-wage jobs for which Texas students can now earn high school credit. The goal of the bill is to improve outcomes for high school juniors and seniors by allowing them to focus their classwork on industry-aligned skills rather than solely traditional courses. Prescribed Career Programs HB 20 specifies 20 targeted high-wage, high-growth occupations. Here’s the list of eligible career fields: Automotive technology  Aviation maintenance Carpentry Construction management and inspection Diesel and heavy equipment Electrical Electronics technology Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning Industrial maintenance and processes Information technology and cybersecurity Manufacturing and industrial technology Masonry Mechanical and aerospace engineering Oil and gas exploration and production Plumbing & pipe fitting Refining and chemical processes Robotics and automation Sheet metal Transportation, distribution, and logistics Welding Partnering with Local Colleges and Universities The bill requires public school districts to partner with local colleges and universities to offer these courses. This builds on the Legislature’s work from the 2023 session to expand the ability of community colleges to provide credentials of value. One key change is that students participating in these courses will receive high school credit, and the classes will be factored into the per-student funding formula for school districts. Students may also earn a Level 1 or Level 2 certification, credentials that can make them immediately hirable for in-demand job opportunities after graduation.  Prepared to Extend the Program HB 20 limits the program to a five-year pilot period ending in 2031. However, lawmakers have the authority to extend the program based on the outcome. The Texas Education Commissioner is also authorized to adjust the prescribed industries every five years to match job market needs.   Ready to Explore High-Growth Careers? Start Here. Do you have a Texas high school student or recent graduate exploring their career path? The Kinder Institute offers a Workforce Demand Dashboard that highlights high-demand jobs and career clusters, with a focus on specific industries. This tool helps students make informed decisions using real-time data on skills, wages, and opportunities. 

Five years ago, the Partnership released a report highlighting the need to meet demand for middle-skill jobs across the greater Houston area. Since then, Houston’s labor market has continued to heat up, making it one of the top destinations for younger working Texans. In fact, the Kinder Institute has highlighted how the talent pool is continuing to get younger as lawmakers emphasize the importance of more career programs in high schools. Earlier this month, lawmakers delivered a slate of bills to give the next generation a giant leap forward in their careers and addressing workforce demand in key industries. When fully implemented, these policies could create the nation’s largest career pipeline for high school graduates. Leading the charge is House Bill 120 (HB 120), a sweeping overhaul of career and technology education programs in Texas schools. The legislation offers five key opportunities for students: Boosts career readiness Provides an additional $100 per student enrolled in P-TECH and R-PEP programs for urban and rural schools Improves data and accountability Requires more outcome reporting from the Texas Education Agency and requires schools to develop new, measurable goals for student performance in college and the workforce Expands support for graduates Funds post-graduate advising for up to two years, offering pathways to work, college, and wage goals  Increases funding for facilities  Supports career program facilities and covers the cost of up to two certification exams per student  Integrates military pathways  Includes military options in career readiness and provides resources about scholarship opportunities for service-bound students  Ultimately, the goal of HB 120 and the Legislature is to ensure students have access to tools that promote long-term success in college, the workforce, or the military. The legislation also establishes accountability measures to track progress over time. These insights will help Texas better respond to evolving workforce needs and identify emerging opportunities in fast-growing industries, ultimately making the state’s talent pipeline more responsive and competitive. The Partnership is proud to have supported this issue during the 89th Texas Legislature as one of its Executive Priorities. This policy supports a stronger, more inclusive workforce by expanding access to career-connected education and creating opportunity. By equipping more students with the tools to succeed in high-demand fields, Texas is investing in the long-term prosperity of individuals, families, and communities, while strengthening Houston’s position as a place where talent can thrive, and all residents can share in the region’s growth. More on the Lege Click here to learn more about our Legislative Outcomes Click here to download our End of Session Recap