Tarrant County College (TCC) is on an unstoppable trajectory, setting new benchmarks in academic excellence, community engagement, and career readiness. In her annual State of the College address, Chancellor Elva LeBlanc declared 2024 as the most impactful year in the institution's history, marking significant milestones that continue to elevate TCC as a leader in higher education.

"No community college anywhere is doing more to ignite positive change, boost quality of life, and deliver an exceptional education,” Chancellor LeBlanc stated with pride. “With the unwavering support of our Board of Trustees, TCC Foundation board members, and our vibrant community, we are turning potential into reality for thousands of Tarrant County residents. We’re setting a high bar, and others are taking notice.”

Expanding Achievement and Opportunity

The Fall 2023 semester saw TCC's enrollment soar to nearly 45,000 credit students, with projections indicating a record-breaking headcount in Fall 2024, the highest since the pandemic. This surge reflects the growing demand for quality, accessible education in Tarrant County.

In Spring 2024, TCC celebrated the graduation of over 7,200 students, among them nearly 700 Early College High School graduates who simultaneously earned their associate degrees and high school diplomas. This achievement underscores TCC's commitment to providing innovative pathways to higher education.

Starting in September, TCC will launch an unprecedented dual enrollment initiative in collaboration with New Heights Education, offering nearly 600 adults who have aged out of traditional high schools the chance to earn their diplomas while completing certification in one of 10 career and technical education courses. This initiative, the only one of its kind in Texas, is open to all eligible Tarrant County residents, further expanding access to life-changing educational opportunities.

TCC’s affordability continues to be a hallmark of its appeal, ranking second among the most affordable Big 10 Community Colleges in Texas. In the last academic cycle, the TCC Foundation secured almost $2 million to support Trailblazers in fulfilling their higher education dreams.

Forging Stronger Partnerships and Innovative Programs

TCC’s impressive portfolio includes more than 240 high-quality degree and certificate options, making it a go-to institution for industry leaders seeking specialized training and workforce development. The college boasts partnerships with over 1,200 industry and business giants, ensuring its programs remain cutting-edge and relevant.

Fall 2023 witnessed the launch of the TCC film workforce development program—the Fort Worth Film Collaborative—thanks to a dynamic partnership with the Fort Worth Film Commission and 101 Studios. This initiative aims to build a robust film industry workforce in Tarrant County, supporting local talent and creating new opportunities in the creative sector.

Further solidifying its position as a national leader, TCC was named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense in October, playing a critical role in training skilled professionals to safeguard the global information infrastructure.

In collaboration with Siemens, a breakthrough partnership is creating a talent pipeline for nuclear medicine technicians, with TCC’s program being one of only five in Texas. Additionally, the college is partnering with Penn State and UT Arlington to offer a free 12-week Microelectronics and Nanomanufacturing Certificate program to veterans and their dependents, beginning next month, to strengthen applicants for semiconductor jobs.

TCC’s commitment to second chances is evident in its Next Phase Program, a partnership with the Tarrant County Jail, offering nonviolent offenders the opportunity to start certificate completion classes while serving their sentences and finish upon release. Moreover, TCC and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence have made it easier for students and area automotive professionals to take ASE certification exams right in Fort Worth, eliminating the need for travel.

TCC’s Public Safety Training Center continues to be a beacon of excellence, providing true-to-career preparation for first responders across 80 fire and law enforcement agencies. Last year, the center served more than 19,000 students and graduated five fire and six law enforcement academies, ensuring our communities are protected by the best-trained professionals.

Impact and Investment: A $2.1 Billion Economic Powerhouse

TCC’s impact extends far beyond the classroom, as revealed by a recent study by the nationally recognized labor market firm Lightcast. The study highlighted that TCC generates $2.1 billion annually for North Texas, with $1.7 billion coming from the higher earnings of its graduates and the increased productivity of the businesses that employ them.

Chancellor LeBlanc emphasized the undeniable value of a TCC education: “Without a doubt, there is great value in a TCC education. Our graduates not only enhance their own lives but also contribute significantly to the economy of Texas and beyond.”

On average, associate degree graduates from TCC can expect to earn $377,200 more over their lifetimes compared to high school graduates, equating to an additional $9,200 annually. For those who transfer to a four-year institution and earn a bachelor’s degree, the financial benefits are even greater, with an average annual increase of $29,100 compared to high school graduates.

This economic impact is bolstered by TCC's voter-approved bond program, which has facilitated the opening of four new buildings, including key structures in the redevelopment of the Northwest and Southeast campuses, along with technology upgrades in multiple classrooms. Looking ahead, state-of-the-art child care centers are set to open next year at TCC Northwest and South, enhancing student-parent attendance and early childhood education options.

2030 and Beyond: A Vision for the Future

As a crowning achievement of the 2024 academic year, TCC received its 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. This reaffirmation is a testament to TCC's unwavering commitment to transforming lives and communities through education.

Looking forward, TCC is preparing to unveil a new multiyear strategic plan, "Trailblazing Together: 2030," developed with extensive input from students, employees, and community and business partners. The plan, which will be presented to the trustees next month and fully rolled out in Spring 2025, is designed to guide the college through its next phase of growth and impact.

Chancellor LeBlanc concluded her address with a bold vision for the future: “Make no mistake, we are ready for our boldest academic year, our farthest reach, our most daring accomplishments. The best is yet to come.”

The 2024-25 academic year will be marked by numerous celebrations, including TCC’s 60th anniversary as Tarrant County’s community college, the 15th anniversary of the Trinity River Campus, the 10th birthday of TCC Connect, and a decade of outstanding achievements at the Erma C. Johnson Hadley Northwest Center of Excellence for Aviation, Transportation, and Logistics.

As one of the nation’s largest higher education institutions and a leader among Texas’ Top 10 community colleges, Tarrant County College continues to provide exceptional opportunities for learners of all ages and backgrounds. With six campuses and a comprehensive array of programs, TCC is more than a community college—it is a catalyst for success, empowering students and transforming communities.