FORT WORTH, Texas — Tarrant County College celebrated the next generation of workforce talent this week as students at TCC Northwest and TCC South signed commitments to pursue careers in high-demand technical fields.
Eighty-six institutions nationwide participated in the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) National Letter of Intent Signing Day. Modeled after athletic signing days, the events recognize students who choose pathways in aviation, automotive, business, HVAC, welding and electrical line technician programs. At TCC, more than 250 Trailblazers committed to their futures during the 2026 NC3 National Signing Day.
This year, TCC South expanded CTE Signing Day, broadening the traditional NC3 event to include students from across all career and technical education programs.
To further broaden access, TCC South also partnered with Crowley Independent School District for a separate CTE Signing Day ceremony on Feb. 20, where 77 students were recognized for committing to workforce pathways.
“We’re always proud to host CTE Signing Day as it marks an important beginning in each student’s educational pathway,” said Dr. Daniel Lufkin, TCC South president. “This milestone is a meaningful step in their journey, and we’re grateful to NC3 for their continued commitment to supporting our students’ professional development.”
Speakers included Matt Ruiz, a solutions design specialist with Advanced Technologies Consultants, and Brent Franks, president of North Texas Automobile Dealers. Both emphasized the growing demand for skilled workers and the value of hands-on training.
At Northwest, NC3 National Signing Day brought together College leadership, local officials and industry partners, including Saginaw Mayor Todd Flippo; Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, who provided remarks via a prepared video; Fort Worth Mayor Pro Tem Carlos Flores; Blair Hess with FAA STEM Aviation and Space Education; and keynote speaker Ratu Tuuhetoka with Alliance Aviation Services.
Students were recognized individually and connected with industry leaders during a reception.
“NC3 Signing Day marks more than the start of an academic pathway — it reflects a commitment to purpose,” said Dr. Zarina Blankenbaker, TCC Northwest president. “These students are choosing careers that strengthen our workforce and expand opportunity across our region. We are proud to stand alongside them as they take this important step forward.”
That alignment is already translating into meaningful opportunities for students. NC3 selected TCC South automotive students Angel Mendoza and Deontre Jones as recipients of the 2026 Skilled Trades — 3M Transformational Scholarship.
“Receiving the 3M Scholarship is proof that my hard work is paying off,” Mendoza said. “This helps push me to continue working toward my goals.”
Student success like this continues to drive TCC’s with NC3. CTE Signing Day reflects the College’s ongoing investment in accessible pathways to in-demand careers, strengthening student outcomes and the North Texas workforce.
Tarrant County College serves nearly 100,000 students each year, offering accessible, affordable pathways to in-demand careers and university transfer. Across multiple campuses and TCC Connect — a fully online learning option — the College partners with more than 1,200 employers to help build the workforce that drives North Texas forward. Bold Steps. Better Futures.