Building Tomorrow: The Essential Role of Skilled Trades in WMPID’s Growth

National Skilled Trades Day occurs annually on the first Wednesday of May. However, a critical awareness of the crucial role of skilled trades professionals within the Westwood Magnolia Parkway Improvement District (WMPID) exists daily.

WMPID focuses on infrastructure and public safety projects in the FM 1488/2978 junction area and has grow significantly since its inception in 2003. Skilled tradespeople, including electricians, plumbers, construction workers and engineers, are essential to these projects. They ensure the quality and longevity of the district's infrastructure, such as the extension of Research Forest Drive and improvements to Tamina Road, which enhance accessibility and safety.

Beyond wiring and pipefitting

Skilled trades individuals are professionals vital to the functionality and safety of the areas we all live and work, handling tasks ranging from wiring schools to repairing infrastructure and everything in between. Their work ensures essential services and public safety, often under challenging conditions.
These skilled trades make a significant economic impact by providing stable, well-paying jobs and fostering entrepreneurship. During crises or natural disasters, these individuals are relied on to restore services and maintain essential functions. 

As infrastructure ages and the demand for new technologies increases, the importance of skilled trades grows, becoming indispensable in building, maintaining and protecting systems that support daily life. Recognizing and investing in these professions is essential for community success and resilience.

Local education options

WMPID recognizes the importance of investing in skilled trades as a sustainable workforce by supporting vocational training and partnerships with local businesses and educational institutions. The District is home to several colleges and universities that offer residents opportunities to further their education and provide employers with workforce training solutions. Two existing Lone Star College System (LSCS) campuses - Montgomery and University Center - offer academic transfer courses, as well as corporate and workforce training programs.

One major workforce training center spans over 83,000 square feet across two buildings and includes classrooms, labs and hands-on training spaces. The center also provides advising and registration services, on-site bookstore, testing center, library and multipurpose room. Located in a large industrial park, the facility is a hub for customized corporate training through Lone Star Corporate College, the system’s dedicated corporate training division. This center has partnered with numerous local manufacturing and service companies to deliver ongoing workforce development tailored to regional business needs.

A new LSCS facility, the Magnolia Center, is currently under construction within the WMPID near Magnolia West High School. Expected to be completed by the end of 2025 and open for classes in spring 2026, the 51,871-square-foot facility will offer workforce training programs in HVAC and EMT/Paramedic fields—sectors experiencing growing demand. The center will also include academic and continuing education classrooms, labs, a testing center and other essential student resources.

Additionally, Sam Houston State University – The Woodlands Center provides opportunities for those pursuing careers in skilled trades, expanding the region’s educational and training influence.

Up your skill today!

Skilled trades professionals are the unsung heroes behind the growth, safety and resilience within WMPID. With continued investment in infrastructure and public safety, the value of tradespeople will only continue to expand.

Every day, beyond National Skilled Trades Day, WMPID is proud to recognize, support and invest in the trades, calling the entire community to engage through local training programs and vocational education to help strengthen the workforce that builds our future. Learn more about the impact these professionals play and how you could start your career today!