Austin Community College District (ACC) joined The Other Ones Foundation (TOOF), Workforce Solutions Capital Area, and other community partners to celebrate a special graduation. Twenty-three (23) students earned new workforce certifications from a vocational training program designed to create new pathways to stability and success. Dozens turned out to recognize the program’s inaugural cohort, Wednesday, August 6, at the John Paul DeJoria Skills Center.

“This is what happens when a community comes together in service of the best of who we are. It makes the work we do meaningful and powerful. I couldn’t be more proud of the students and the employees that made it happen,” said ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart. “ Our role as a College is to glue these resources together to do bigger and more magical things. This is just the beginning.”

The graduates, many of whom have experienced homelessness, completed hands-on training in HVAC and automotive fields through an ACC-led program that connects education with employment and a better future. 

“This graduation is more than a celebration – it’s proof of what’s possible when we invest in people and their potential,” said Elizabeth Baker, Executive Director of TOOF. “As we look ahead, we’re excited to expand our vocational program and open even more doors to economic opportunity for those we serve. Everyone deserves the chance to thrive, and this is just the beginning.”

ACC’s partnership with TOOF offers students a second chance to build stability and self-sufficiency through skills that lead directly to employment in high-demand industries. Students live on-site at the Esperanza Community while completing the program at the skills center. They finish with job-ready experience and also earn licenses to begin working immediately in technical careers. 

“It really is a community. Everyone is here to support each other. The support we get from the staff is immeasurable,” said Jewdon Priestley, HVAC graduate. “Anytime you are feeling down or you are having issues jumping through hoops to different social services, these guys are there.”

“The way that they are doing for people out here. They are struggling. No matter if you are homeless because you were incarcerated, you are disabled, or if you are older, they do it the right way,” said  Manuel Garcia, Auto Technician graduate. “It’s gonna help a lot of people. TOOF saved my life, but ACC has now given me life. It’s my graduation, but it is just the beginning for me.”

Check out the photos from the event below.

A new cohort is expected to begin classes this month.

Tags: auto tech, Continuing Education, HVAC, John Paul DeJoria Skills Center, The Other Ones Foundation, Workforce Solutions Capital Area