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Group photo at signing of TJC Engineering Academy ribbon cutting.
From left to right: David Hudson, TJC trustee member; Dr. John E. Hurtado, interim vice chancellor and dean of engineering at Texas A&M; James Perkins, TJC Foundation board member; John Sharp, Texas A&M University System Chancellor; Dr. M. Katherine Banks, Texas A&M President; Dr. Juan E. Mejia, TJC president and CEO; John Hills, TJC trustee member; Dr. Deana Sheppard, TJC provost and vice president for academic and student affairs; and Dr. Cliff Boucher, TJC dean of School of Engineering, Mathematics and Sciences. | Image: Texas A&M Engineering

Texas A&M University and Tyler Junior College (TJC) have launched the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at TJC and will enroll the first cohort of students in fall 2023. This innovative co-enrollment partnership was developed to address the state’s growing need for engineers. Qualified students will be admitted to the Texas A&M College of Engineering, complete the first two years of coursework at TJC and finish their engineering degrees in College Station, Texas. The program will accept applications for the fall through July 31.

“As Texas continues to grow, so does the need for well-trained and trusted engineers. The co-enrollment partnership between TJC and the renowned Texas A&M University College of Engineering announced today demonstrates the collaboration and commitment both institutions have to a brighter future for Texas,” said Senator Bryan Hughes. “I am thankful for the leadership of Texas A&M Chancellor John Sharp, Texas A&M President M. Katherine Banks, and TJC President and CEO Dr. Juan E. Mejia for creating this program that will be a great blessing to our students, and Texas, for generations to come.” 

The Texas A&M Engineering Academy at TJC allows students to pursue one of 22 majors within the College of Engineering at Texas A&M.

“The Texas A&M Engineering Academy at TJC will help outstanding students from East Texas earn an engineering degree from Texas A&M,” said Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp. “Starting their college career closer to home like this allows them to save a lot of money while earning a degree from one of the best engineering schools in the country.”

In Texas, the projected need for engineers in the workforce is 51,000 by 2028. To meet this need, universities and two-year colleges must work together to bridge the gap and attract and retain students who are interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematic (STEM) fields. 

“Through initiatives like the engineering academies, Texas A&M demonstrates its commitment to serving the needs of Texans,” said Texas A&M President M. Katherine Banks. “Not only does this program provide invaluable educational opportunities, but it also offers substantial financial benefits for our students. The program truly embodies innovation, affordability and excellence in engineering education."

Students in the Engineering Academy enroll in math, science and core curriculum courses through TJC and have the unique opportunity to enroll in engineering courses taught by Texas A&M faculty on the TJC central campus.

“From day one, Engineering Academy students are Texas Aggies" said Dr. John E. Hurtado, interim vice chancellor and dean of engineering at Texas A&M. "They establish a strong sense of community in the academy that continues throughout their studies. At the end of their collegiate journey, these students will have a solid head start on their engineering careers."

While co-enrolled at both institutions, students will have opportunities to participate in student activities and organizations at both Texas A&M and TJC to the fullest extent possible.

“We believe wholeheartedly in authentic partnerships, as they are a key pillar of our strategic plan,” said TJC President and CEO Dr. Juan E. Mejia. “Texas A&M approached the College and laid out an innovative approach to this seamless pathway between our institutions — and in a high-demand field. This partnership will create even more success stories for our hard-working, deserving students, right here at home.”

Furthermore, the collaboration between Texas A&M and TJC will shape future engineers who will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the world.

“These future engineers will go out and change the world and hopefully tell the story of how opportunities like this incredible partnership between Texas A&M and TJC contributed to their professional success,” said TJC Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Deana Sheppard. “We are honored to be a part of this great endeavor that will greatly benefit the students of TJC who wish to pursue their four-year degree in engineering.”

Visit the Engineering Academies website for more information about how to apply and other details about the Engineering Academy.