FORT WORTH, Texas — Tarrant County College signed another dynamic recruiting class for the 2025-26 academic year. Thursday’s ceremonies, however, featured a twist on the popular signing period for athletes.
More than 350 scholars committed to enroll in a career and technical (CTE) program during National CTE Letter of Intent Signing Day at TCC Northwest and TCC South. Established by the National Coalition of Certification Centers, the annual event celebrates those seeking an education that leads to a career in an in-demand field.
Four students won the Skilled Trades – 3M Transformational Scholarship, a national award offered through NC3 and 3M. Aaron Hernandez, Nathan McPherson, Jade Murtallal and Richard Wasson each received $1,000 to use next fall.
Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker and Saginaw Mayor Todd Flippo welcomed students at Northwest who committed to earning a CTE degree or certificate.
More than 140 participants from the Castleberry ISD, Lake Worth ISD and Northwest ISD joined scholars from TCC’s Aviation, Logistics, Nondestructive Inspection Testing and Evaluation, and Welding programs — to name a few — to sign letters of intent. Other popular majors included health science, professional pilot, horticulture and construction.
“This is more than a signing ceremony; it is a recognition of the dedication and ambition of students stepping into industries that power our economy,” noted TCC Northwest President Zarina Blankenbaker. “By taking this step, they are investing in their own futures and strengthening the workforce that supports our region.
“At TCC Northwest we’re committed to providing the education and industry partnerships that ensure these students are prepared for rewarding careers. Their journey begins today, and we look forward to seeing their contributions to the skilled trades and technical professions.”
TCC Northwest’s role as one of the nation’s top NC3 Leadership Schools was highlighted during the 10th anniversary celebration for the Erma C. Johnson Hadley Center of Excellence for Aviation, Transportation and Logistics. The recognition further solidified the community college’s commitment to workforce development and career readiness. NC3 Leadership Schools are known for their ability to model top-tier CTE programs serving as National Centers of Excellence.
The TCC South community celebrated 222 signees this year, with 92 students from Crowley ISD, 62 from the TCC South/Fort Worth ISD Collegiate Academy and 68 TCC Trailblazers currently enrolled in general CTE programs signing letters of intent.
Several industry partners attended TCC South’s ceremony, including NC3 Executive Director Roger Tadajewski; Matt Ruiz, Advanced Technologies Consultants regional sales manager; and Snap-On Sales Manager Dan Hickman.
TCC South President Daniel Lufkin: “We are thrilled to host NC3 National Letter of Intent Signing Day. Just as we celebrate athletes on signing day, it is equally important to recognize these future skilled professionals who will play a critical role in keeping our economy strong. These careers offer not only a family-sustaining wage but long-term opportunities for growth and advancement.”
Five CTE programs — Automotive Collision Repair, Automotive Service Technology, Electrical Line Technician, Electronics Technology and Business — dominated this year’s popular majors at TCC South.
TCC’s dedication to building a robust CTE talent pipeline to Tarrant area companies is directly addressing growing talent shortages in various sectors.
“Autobahn Fort Worth is committed to helping uplift Tarrant County youth with CTE programs that meld job-specific training with internships and career paths,” said Brendan Harrington, president of Autobahn Fort Worth and chair for the Fort Worth Chamber’s Automotive Task Force.
“TCC has proven to be a great partner to cultivate these opportunities.”
View TCC Northwest event gallery
About Tarrant County College
Celebrating 60 years of excellence and impact in 2025, Tarrant County College is one of the nation’s largest higher education institutions and boasts the second lowest tuition of Texas’ Top 10 community colleges. A comprehensive community college with six campuses in Tarrant County, TCC offers a range of opportunities for learners of all ages and backgrounds, including Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees; workforce and economic development programs; technical and skilled trades programs; and customized training for area businesses and corporations.