Lamar Institute of Technology and TMAC Partner to Strengthen Workforce Training in Southeast Texas

1/28/2026

Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT) and the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) announce a partnership, expanding advanced workforce training and technical assistance opportunities for manufacturers across Southeast Texas. Community members, industry partners and employers are invited to learn more about the combined workforce capabilities of TMAC and LIT at the Regional Launch Event from 1-4 p.m. March 24 at the Paul and Connie Szuch Multi-Purpose Center.

TMAC is the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) designated center for the State of Texas, supporting seven regions statewide. TMAC is headquartered at the University Texas Arlington and is able to support small and medium sized manufacturing technology and training needs across Texas through subrecipient agreements with four academic institutions (UTEP, UTRGV, TTU, UH) and one research institute (SwRI). Lamar Institute of Technology has now joined the TMAC network of academic institutions that will proudly serve manufacturers in southeast Texas.

“LIT’s role as a TMAC subrecipient is impactful, as it is one of only two, two-year technical colleges in the state. We offer flexible, industry-aligned training options that meet the needs of both new and existing workers,” said Dr. Sid Valentine, LIT president. “LIT can provide face-to-face and online instruction with 24/7 access, and deliver customized, on-site training for local employers, which are capabilities that complement and enhance TMAC’s service offerings.”

TMAC-Southeast at LIT will serve Angelina, Chambers, Hardin, Jasper, Newton, Orange, Jefferson and Polk Counties. TMAC, as a statewide program, supports small and medium-sized manufacturers to help accelerate their profitable growth and competitiveness by improving their products, processes, technologies and/or their people through training and advice from trusted business advisors and field engineers. Together, LIT and TMAC offer a range of technical and professional development opportunities, from entry-level technician training to advanced leadership skills.

“TMAC’s leadership is excited about the opportunity to enhance workforce offerings in Southeast Texas and across the state with the onboarding of Lamar Institute of Technology as a TMAC subrecipient,” said Rodney Reddic, Executive Director of the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center. “LIT brings vital workforce training capabilities to TMAC’s portfolio of services that will help meet the growing demand for skilled talent in Texas manufacturing.”

For more information about TMAC services or workforce training opportunities at Lamar institute of Technology, contact TMAC Regional Manager Todd Boley at todd.boley@tmac.org or 409-951-5733.