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Upcoming Central Texas infrastructure projects may bring 10,000 new jobs, report finds

Between Project Connect and an expansion of Hwy. I-35, Austin is slated to see major mobility changes in the coming decade.

October 16, 2023 • 
London Gibson
ATX_WatsonMobiltySummit

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson speaks at last week’s summit on Central Texas’ mobility and infrastructure workforce.

Photo provided by Workforce Solutions Capital Area

10,000. That’s how many new mobility and infrastructure jobs it may require to complete upcoming capital projects in Central Texas — annually.

In a summit last week, local political and transit leaders unveiled the results of Central Texas’ first mobility workforce study. As the Austin area embarks on major developments like Project Connect and the I-35 expansion, here are three other takeaways from the findings:

  • In-the-works transit projects are expected to double the number of mobility and infrastructure occupations in the area, including positions for mechanics, operators, and engineers.
  • Recruiting women, who currently account for ~14% of the mobility and infrastructure workforce, could play a substantial role in addressing the projected demand for workers.
  • Improving wages may be key in filling roles, particularly for workers in general construction and skilled trades.

Learn more about training opportunities from Workforce Solutions Capital Area.

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