Background: Plano residents are served by four public school districts. Plano ISD, the city’s largest school district, reported the completion rate for the class of 2023 was 94.1%. % Of those graduating students 70% attended college during the fall of 2023. With more than 25 colleges and universities in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, Plano companies have a pipeline of 190,000 students currently enrolled in four year universities. An additional 170,000 students are attending community colleges.
Collin College offers more than 100 degrees and certificates in a wide range of fields. The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) is a four-year emerging research university providing numerous undergraduate and advanced degree programs to Plano residents. Through specially designed undergraduate and graduate degree programs, these universities enhance professional development for working adults pursuing advanced education.
Workforce development programs by local schools and organizations, are also offered to enrich personal development skills. Collin College and Plano ISD have initiated a new Collegiate Academy starting in Fall 2024 that will offer Plano ISD students a streamlined pathway to earn an associate degree and a high school diploma at the same time, allowing students to enter the workforce much sooner. The Young Professionals of Plano, Leadership Plano, and The Women’s Division are all Plano Chamber of Commerce initiatives that have specialized training for specific workforce groups to receive instruction on career development and business leadership.
Through collaborative efforts with the education and business communities, the City of Plano can assist in developing a competitive workforce. TEDxPlano, a Chamber initiative, provides a platform to explore innovative ideas, emerging business trends and best practices – inspiring further development of local companies. Additionally, the City offers job and skills development grants through the Economic Development Chapter 380 grant program, which aims to retain and attract high-wage jobs, train and recruit talent through workforce partnerships, and encourage companies to hire Plano residents.
To attract and retain this selective employee base as residents, Plano will need to enhance the existing community character and provide a superior quality of life by creating interactive social spaces, diverse housing options, and excellent municipal services to distinguish itself from neighboring communities. Education, business, and local government efforts provide the foundation to attract skilled workers and ensure competitive job skills that provide area businesses with an ever-improving employee base.
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