Tarrant County College Supports Students and Companies Across DFW

To say that Tarrant County College (TCC) belongs to Fort Worth alone is far too limiting. The college’s reach extends across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, serving dynamic, fast-growing cities like Grapevine, Texas.

With six convenient locations and ample online coursework, learning is flexible and attainable. Students can build their education around work and family. TCC has more than 1,200 corporate partnerships that prepare employees today for the careers of tomorrow.

“Businesses want to know that tomorrow’s graduates have the skills needed to succeed, while students want to feel confident in their ability to find work,” says Steven Jones, Senior Business Engagement Manager with Grapevine Economic Development. “TCC builds a bridge between residents and companies, from education to employment, creating better experiences for everyone involved.”

TCC’s $2.3 billion economic impact is fueled by these collaborations. Students studying to become automotive technicians, for example, can participate in two-year internships with Autobahn Fort Worth. Students gain hands-on experience and a direct pipeline into stable careers, while the dealership benefits from a steady stream of well-trained technicians.

A Legacy of Innovation and Service

For 60 years, TCC has strengthened Fort Worth and surrounding communities, offering more than 240 degree and certificate options. Today, it is one of the nation’s 25 largest higher education institutions.

“Name almost any high-growth career, and we likely have a program for it,” says Elva LeBlanc, Chancellor at TCC. “If we don’t, we’ll create one. We’re proud of this can-do spirit. It’s who we are.”

TCC’s culture is rooted in problem-solving and community service. It supports students pursuing degrees, adults returning to the classroom, and career-changers preparing for their next chapter. 

Programs Built Around Employer Demand

TCC continues to invest in programs tied to DFW growth industries, such as healthcare, film, aviation, hospitality, and more. The college recently launched an alternative teacher certification pathway for bachelor’s-prepared adults seeking to become educators.

Beyond technical training, TCC strengthens power skills like leadership, communication, and customer service. Depending on employer need, offerings range from short-term training to full-semester courses. TCC leadership teams regularly partner with businesses to identify skills gaps or hiring needs that aren’t being met. This enables the college to pivot quickly and offer resources that impact the area economy.

Recently, TCC met with leaders from across the healthcare sector to identify the most in-demand jobs and competencies. Industry partners ranked critical skills, giving the college a roadmap to design relevant, future-ready training.

“Companies approach us asking for help, and we’re happy to provide fresh learning opportunities and certifications,” says Dr. LeBlanc. “Listening to local businesses ensures our curricula stay modern, responsive, and meaningful.”

TCC is adding four new certifications in the spring to train film production crews, which is timed perfectly as Texas invests $1.5 billion over the next 10 years to supercharge its film industry.

The college also supports small businesses through the Tarrant County Small Business Development Center, where entrepreneurs can tap into training, resources, and expert guidance.

Opening Doors for High School Students

TCC’s impact begins long before students graduate high school. Through strong partnerships with area K-12 school districts, students can earn an associate degree and a high school diploma simultaneously. Many walk across two stages in the same week: one at their high school and one at TCC’s commencement celebration.

“More and more high school students want to prepare for the future early on,” says Dr. LeBlanc. “By giving them access to college-level coursework at no cost, we’re opening doors sooner and empowering families across our region.”

These programs are earning national recognition. In 2024, the U.S. Department of Education named the Grapevine-Colleyville ISD Collegiate Academy at TCC a National Blue Ribbon School, one of 356 schools nationwide. Other districts across DFW, like Hurst-Euless-Bedford, are following Grapevine’s lead.  

Serving Learners of All Ages

Learners come from all backgrounds and have various educational goals. At New Heights High School, located at the TCC Opportunity Center, eligible adults 18-50 can concurrently earn a high school diploma and a college-level certification for free.

“When we help every North Texas resident succeed, we reposition the trajectory of entire families for generations to come,” says Dr. LeBlanc. “The opportunity to learn is the opportunity to earn.”

Demand at New Heights is soaring. After receiving more than 1,200 applications in its first year, enrollment is now approaching 800.

“If we’re going to address workforce needs, we need people coming through non-traditional channels,” says Jones. “We want the community to know that career changes are possible.” 

Learn More About Higher Education in Grapevine 

Tarrant County College is part of a powerful ecosystem of DFW higher education institutions shaping economic mobility. Explore additional colleges and universities serving the Grapevine region. From state institutions to private universities, there’s something for everyone at TCC based on budget, timeline, and education targets.

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