Two San Jacinto College educators are spearheading an effort to raise the education level, and thus improve the economy of the North Channel area, through a new group called the North Channel Education Consortium.

San Jacinto College educators Dr. Sarah Janes and Dr. Robert Vela have a vision of higher education levels and an improved economy for the North Channel area.

San Jacinto College North’s Dr. Sarah Janes, academic dean, and Dr. Robert Vela, dean of student development, collaborated on the idea for the consortium. The group includes representatives from San Jacinto College North; the Channelview, Galena Park and Sheldon school districts; Holy Trinity Episcopal School; members of the North Channel Chamber of Commerce; representatives from various local government offices; and, representatives of various community businesses and industries.

“After having such successful advisory committee meetings with all three school districts, Robert Vela and I thought that a similar group involving more community leaders could do great things for the community as a whole,” commented Janes. San Jacinto College will lead the effort at first, but the group’s intention is to pass that role to other members of the consortium to better serve the community in a true collaborative alliance.

Both longtime educators firmly believe it is imperative for people to a obtain college education and training in today’s economy. “For those who want to be engineers, teachers, lawyers, and accountants, the need for a college education is obvious,” Janes said. “However, those who have interest in the technical areas can no longer rely on their innate abilities to get them the long-term jobs that pay enough to provide a living.” She added that employers in such areas as auto collision repair, diesel mechanics, and air conditioning are now seeking individuals with computer skills and specific training. Employers are looking for entry-level employees who have earned at least a one-year college certificate, which can be obtained at San Jacinto College.

Vela points out that nothing opens doors to career choices better than a solid college education. “It is estimated that most people change jobs and careers multiple times during their lives and the days of working for one employer are over,” he stated. “The lack of a college education can also act as an economic ‘trap.’ Once in the ‘trap,’ it can be difficult for many to thrive and achieve personal and career success.”

Janes says there is a direct correlation between the education level of a community and its economic health. “New companies tend to look for communities that have employees who will meet their needs,” she noted. “If there’s a perception that a community lacks a skilled and educated workforce, new businesses will go elsewhere. The higher the education level of the community, both in college degrees as well as technical certificates, the better chance the community has of attracting new business and industry.”

The consortium held its first meeting on Feb. 18 at San Jacinto College and another meeting has tentatively been set for early April.