Building a Stronger Future: Lone Star College’s Commitment to Career Training and Economic Growth

The area supported by the Westwood Magnolia Parkway Improvement District (WMPID) has experienced significant growth. Comprising the region between Conroe, Magnolia and The Woodlands just north of Houston, TX, WMPID is expected to experience continued growth that will result in the evolving needs of employers in the area. The Lone Star College System (LSCS) offers a comprehensive array of educational offerings from numerous regional locations, all tailored to ensure the local community is prepared to meet those needs.

“Lone Star College System is one of the best educational institutions in the business,” said Rob Eissler, WMPID Executive Director. “Their delivery structure and course offerings are the future of higher education, and we are fortunate that their facilities are near the businesses and residents in our district.”

LSCS’s bachelor, associate, certificate and adult education programs are designed to equip students of all ages with the skills and certifications necessary for immediate employment and career advancement. These programs are crafted to meet the evolving demands of the workforce, helping develop graduates who are job-ready for high-demand careers with both the knowledge and practical, hands-on experience to be highly sought-after by employers in various industries throughout the region.

“We value  dialogue with  our school districts and industry partners to ensure a pipeline of highly-skilled workforce is available to area businesses,” said Dr. Christina Hagerty, LSCSInterim Chief Academic Officer. “At the same time, our programs develop individuals who can stay relevant in the workplace and obtain liveable wages.”

A new addition to LSCS will be in the WMPID at the LSC-Magnolia Center. Construction on the center near Magnolia West High School is expected to be completed by the end of 2025 to be available for classes in spring 2026. Students will participate in HVAC and EMT/Paramedic workforce programs to help address the growing need in those industries. The 51,871-square-foot facility will also house academic and continuing education classrooms, labs, a testing center and more.

“We want to meet the demands existing in the community, both in terms of individuals and area companies,” said Hagerty. “While we are excited about the LSC-Magnolia Center, we want to emphasize the location nearest you can get you started on your path to success!”  

Meeting the community’s needs

LSCS consists of eight colleges, seven satellite centers, eight Workforce Centers of Excellence and Lone Star Corporate College, serving more than 91,000 students in spring 2025. Educational opportunities exist on numerous paths, each designed to provide students with the academic training to meet their career goals. 

Bachelors Degree Programs

• Cybersecurity Bachelor of Applied Technology
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Emergency Management
• Energy, Manufacturing, & Trades Management Bachelor of Applied Science
• Nursing Bachelor of Science

Associate Degree and Certificate Programs

LSCS develops two-year programs that direct students into the workforce or other educational institutions to continue their journey.
"These programs serve both the individual beginning their post-secondary education and the current employee or entrepreneur who loves their trade and wants to stay in it,” said Hagerty. “LSCS’s offerings  can help them extend their business opportunities.”

Popular LSCS Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees and Workforce Education Certificates in fields include:

• Automotive Technology
• Computer Information Technology
• Emergency Medical Services Professions
• Engineering Technology
• Construction and Skilled Trades
• Health Sciences
• Business and Management
• Hospitality and Culinary Arts
• Manufacturing and Industrial Technology

High School Programs

LSCS recognizes that career aspirations can begin at an early age and has designed numerous programs that allow high school students to succeed in college.
“So much of that is giving students the realization and confidence they can start and complete college,” said Hagerty.

• Dual Credit/Exceptional Admission
• Early College High Schools
• High School Articulation
• iSchoolHigh at LSCS-Montgomery
• iSchoolHigh at LSCS-University Park

Adult Education

Through Continuing Education programs, LSCS offers individuals opportunities to update skills or pursue new career paths, supporting workforce adaptability and resilience. 

Fostering a robust local economy

By offering training in high-demand fields, LSCS’s programs play a pivotal role in strengthening the local economy and community by ensuring local businesses can access a pool of qualified candidates prepared to meet productivity and competitiveness goals. Furthermore, LSCS graduates often secure employment within the community, increasing their economic mobility and improving their quality of life and overall community well-being. 

LSCS collaborates with local businesses to align the curriculum with industry standards, ensuring students acquire relevant skills. These partnerships also facilitate internships and job placements, creating a seamless transition from education to employment. 

Beyond the new Magnolia Center, Lone Star College's staff and administration will continue to strive to be an integral part of the local community and businesses. WMPID is proud to work with such an institution that seeks to provide a skilled workforce, support economic development, and foster industry partnerships that contribute to the region's prosperity.

To explore the other ways WMPID focuses on safety and improvements and see how you or your business would benefit from being in our Texas community, visit our website. Please follow us on LinkedIn for current news and project updates.