BlackRock invests $30M for Texas electricians

BlackRock, an equity firm, has committed a $30 million investment in Texas to address the growing demand for AI infrastructure. This funding will be distributed to technical training schools across the state over the next three years, with the goal of training 12,000 new electrical workers. State capital correspondent Adam Schwager reported from Texas State Technical College in Waco, highlighting it as a potential beneficiary. Larry Fink, BlackRock CEO, emphasized the critical shortage of skilled workers, noting that Texas has experienced significant population growth and requires an estimated 10,000 new electricians immediately. A major factor contributing to this demand is the rapid expansion of data center construction within the state. Gene Lantrip, an Abilene custom home builder, illustrated the impact, stating his company has 15 houses awaiting electricians due to tech companies like Oracle "putting out a call for 500 electricians." Fink stressed the urgency of the investment, as companies cannot afford slow rebuilding of the electrician workforce. TSTC Chancellor Michael Reeser confirmed the grant would enable the college to accelerate the expansion of its electricity and power programs, helping the state catch up with its workforce needs.