Let me introduce myself. My name is Matt Adams, and I am the program coordinator for the new low voltage program at Houston Community College. I have been working on this project for 2 1/2 years. We launch this coming fall. Because of this, I have been able to make a lot of connections in the low voltage world especially in Houston and in Texas.
I was talking with one of your former Geed Squad member that was doing in home installations, and he told me that he has a Texas unarmed alarm security installers license. I am trying to mainly get ahold of those people in Houston since I can help them the most. I do have resources though to help others with job in this arena. I would love to see what I can do about it.
I am proposing, if you need it also, 6 classes that can point you into this industry in a good way. You may not need them, but in case you do, Texas Workforce Commission can and will pay for you if you need it. There are more resources that I have so I don't want you to feel that you have to go it alone. I have been without work in 2010 and 2011, and I know what it feels like (it sucks).
Below is a copy of the email that I sent it. I hope that it help, and please feel free to reach out to me if you need some help here in Houston. I know just about every integration company in Houston and a ton in Texas.
This coming August, I am launching a certificate and a two-year associate degree in all thing's low voltage. I have been working on it for 2 ½ years, and I have made a lot of connections in this world. Since all you guys have your Texas unarmed alarm security installers license and your background at Best Buy, I know that you have a huge leg up into the world of integration. I am confident that I can help open a lot of doors for you guys, and not just in Houston. This industry is in need of people like you that have a clean background and a willingness to learn new things.
What new things might you ask? The areas of study will be structured cabling (ethernet and fiber optics), audio/video, lighting, security (cameras, access controls, etc), fire alarms, burglar alarms, retail and grocery store automation, medical automation, networking, and so much more. I have a lot of connections, and I feel that I can actually help all of you guys out. Also, in case any of you want to come to school to take classes to know more and get more, I can make that happen. Even though this degree launches this Fall, I do have a way that you can start this summer, by taking two or three classes and finishing in the Fall as a graduate in December. Also, if you have your security license, I can get you credit for up to two classes. We should talk.
I know this might mean a little bit of a setback in pay for some of you, but long term, this industry is huge and has lots of opportunities for you guys. I am attaching how to enroll as a student, a webinar I did last school year on this degree plan, the links to the degree plan, and some resources about scholarship, especially the Texas Workforce Commission one.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. Also, my cell phone is 281-702-8787. Have a great rest of your day.
How to enroll as a student
Smart Building Technology webinar
Smart Building Technology, C1
Smart Building Technology, AAS
These are a bunch of potential scholarships to look at. Just some of the great sources of funding in the trades. There is so much more. I promise this is just the tip of what is out there. You will need to hunt it to find out what more is out there.
HCC Foundation Scholarship
Texas Workforce Stuff
Mike Rowe Scholarship
Dewalt Scholarship
Veteran scholarships
Home Depot
