By Amanda Fenwick, San Jacinto College
San Jacinto College announced a partnership today with Nuro, a leading autonomous vehicle (AV) company, to create the first AV technician certificate program in Texas as part of Nuro’s national Autonomous Upskilling Initiative.
San Jacinto students will be able to start this unique, one-year certificate program starting Fall 2023. It includes hybrid coursework allowing students to merge computer design and automotive engineering skills, and prepare for jobs in the AV industry. The AV delivery service industry has the potential to create and sustain 3.4 million jobs annually between 2025-2035, according to a Steer report.
“San Jacinto College has a rich history of being at the forefront of helping students build industry-relevant skills. From maritime, aerospace, and automotive technician training, to supporting the petrochemical and medical industries in our region, our college has always done a great job preparing the workforce for the future. We’re excited to partner with Nuro to create the state’s first autonomous technician certificate program for our students, and we appreciate their partnership,” said Dr. Brenda Hellyer, San Jacinto College Chancellor.
Nuro sees tremendous potential in the AV industry. There is a massive demand for autonomous delivery at scale, which the company aims to meet by partnering with some of the world’s leading brands and making last-mile deliveries in communities with its zero-occupant, zero-emission electric delivery vehicles. By scaling up this service, Nuro wants to strengthen local commerce and drive equitable access to fresh food and other essential goods to underserved communities across the United States.
“Nuro’s expansion in the Houston area will benefit from our ability not only to attract talent but also to meet the growing demand in this field. What’s unique about this program is that it’s open to everyone from first-year students to experienced professionals who want to explore the electric and autonomous vehicle industry. I’m excited to be a part of an effort that will redefine how we train and retain the future workforce in this industry,” said EV Ellington, Head of On-Road Operations at Nuro.
Nuro has the California Bay Area-based De Anza College as part of its Upskilling Initiative to create education and training opportunities in AV.
