SAN ANTONIO, TX Alamo Academies' newest Academy hosted its first class graduation on last month. Thanks to this newly minted Heavy Equipment program, and through hands-on learning in and out of the classroom, the students are entering the workforce with specific, industry-aligned skills and education. The Heavy Equipment program, along with four other industry tracks at Alamo Academies, is helping the San Antonio community address "skills gap" issues plaguing the workforce with high-demand, high-tech, high-skilled talent. Along with Alamo Academies, Mayor Ivy Taylor and many industry leaders were on hand to celebrate these 11 high school seniors and recognize their accomplishments.

The Heavy Equipment Academy senior class graduates this month from the following high schools: East Central High School, Jourdanton High School, Kennedy High School, New Braunfels High School, Sam Houston High School, Somerset High School and Southwest High School. Each of these students have completed 33 hours of college credit while earning a Marketable Skills Award in Diesel Light/Heavy Truck Technology Mechanic Helper, OSHA certification, and Level I Certificate of Completion with the Alamo Colleges.

Gene Bowman, Executive Director Alamo Academies stated "We are proud of our dedicated students who worked hard to achieve this success. We are especially thankful to our partners, the various industries, the Alamo Colleges and other education and community members who helped build this workforce talent pipeline."

Along with the Heavy Equipment Academy graduates, more than 100 graduates from the Academies' programs (Aerospace, Advanced Technology and Manufacturing, IT and Security, and Health Profession) were recognized for their accomplishments in their STEM-based areas of study. Students have dedicated their junior and senior year to earn over 30 hours of college credit, industry certifications, all while completing the rigors of their high school curriculum.  

In partnership with local industry leaders, ASCO, City of San Antonio, CPS Energy, HOLT CAT, RDO, ROMCO, and Closner Equipment; Alamo Academies hosted the first 11 graduates of the Heavy Equipment program, with more than 100 students walking the stage. Through hands-on learning in and out of the classroom, these students are entering the workforce with specific, industry-aligned skills and education.