Goodwill Central Texas, a 27-year member of the Austin Chamber, recently celebrated the grand opening of its first Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI) Training Lab.

The BICSI Training Lab, part of the Goodwill Career and Technical Academy (GTCA) Training Program, will offer certified training courses to students in basic information technology cable installation, copper installation, optical fiber installation, and technician training. The inaugural class was welcomed in June.

Once certified, students will have a direct pathway to more than seven business partnerships that will hire low-voltage installers and technicians. The average number of positions available in the Central Texas area ranges from 110 to 200 with a starting wage of $12 or $14 an hour depending on experience.

Established in Austin in 1958, Goodwill has become the multi-dimensional non-profit deeply intertwined with business and job growth, the environment, and the overall spirit of Central Texas. The Austin facility will become one of 32 active locations nationwide to offer these certifications.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held June 14. For more information on the program, email GCTA@goodwillcentraltexas.org or call 512-637-7131.

If you are a Chamber member and would like to coordinate a ribbon-cutting ceremony, contact Melanee Ferrier at 512-322-5684.