Michael and Susan Dell
The philanthropic organisation founded by Michael Dell and Susan Dell has spotlighted the growing impact of free skilled-trades training in Texas, reporting that a large majority of participants secure employment shortly after completing the programme.
According to a 2026 update from the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, 78% of graduates from Skillpoint Alliance find jobs after completing their training, while graduates earn an average of $3,600 per month and increase their earnings by an average of 150%.
How the training works
Skillpoint’s pitch is speed and a direct link to employers. Traditional training programmes, the foundation notes, often take months or years, cost thousands of dollars and may not lead to available jobs.
Skillpoint instead builds its free five-week courses with employers who are hiring now, so participants train for open positions companies need to fill today.Participants earn industry-recognised certifications, visit job sites and train on electrical systems, HVAC equipment and plumbing installations designed to mirror real working conditions. They also receive mentoring and help with job placement.
Industry certifications and job placement support
Participants in the programme receive hands-on training, earn industry-recognised certifications, visit job sites and receive mentoring and job placement assistance.
According to the organisation, employer partnerships shape every aspect of the curriculum, creating a more direct pathway from training to employment. The results have been significant. The foundation reports that more than three-quarters of graduates secure jobs after completing the programme, while many move into careers that offer greater stability, higher wages and long-term advancement opportunities.
Addressing Texas' skilled worker shortage
The programme comes as Texas continues to face growing demand for skilled workers across critical industries. According to the foundation, many employers struggle to fill essential roles, while adults seeking career advancement often face barriers such as lengthy training periods and high educational costs.The organisation highlighted the story of a graduate named Mariah, who transitioned from security work into an HVAC technician role after completing five weeks of training.
She now works as a start-up technician, inspecting and testing newly installed HVAC systems before they reach customers.
Expansion planned across Central Texas
To meet growing demand, Skillpoint Alliance is expanding its operations in South Austin and New Braunfels. The organisation is further planning to increase the training capacity by updating the families, hiring more instructors and support staff and also running multiple cohorts. The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation claimed that the expansion is aimed at helping more Texans gain access to fast, employer-connected training programmes that can lead to stable careers and improved economic mobility while helping businesses fill critical workforce gaps.