Houston, Texas, Oct. 7, 2026 – Houston Christian University has been awarded a $2,665,566 dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Labor on behalf of the U.S. Department of Education to fund the Engineering Pathways to Opportunity: Strengthening Student Success and Workforce Outcomes project at the University.

The project launches the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MEEN) program designed to strengthen institutional capacity and improve academic outcomes for low-income students. Through the grant, HCU will expand the infrastructure for the new mechanical engineering program, which will launch in Fall 2027, grow enrollment, increase graduation rates for first-time, full-time degree-seeking students, including Pell-eligible students, and improve employability and post-degree earnings of graduates.

“We are grateful for this investment in our students and the future of Houston’s workforce.  This grant will help us expand access to mechanical engineering education and connect classroom learning with hands-on experience and meaningful careers,” said HCU Acting President Sandra Mooney.

The multi-million-grant will support renovation of the Engineering Annex Building, integration of industry-standard equipment, hiring a director of industry partnerships, embedding internships, project-based learning and certification pathways, expanding access to post-degree workforce data and pursuing ABET accreditation.

As a part of the project, HCU will implement a structured, career pathways model aligned with employer-defined workforce needs. The project also establishes an Industry Advisory Board and employer-led training pipelines, integrates opportunities to earn additional recognized postsecondary credentials (an industry certificate and a pre-licensure exam), and expands access to professional mentorships and other work-based learning experiences.

“We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Education for once again entrusting us with resources meant to support equipment and infrastructure to educate the ethical, work-ready engineers of tomorrow. This project supports a full inventory of tools, fabrication and lab equipment, and demonstration models for the launch of our hands-on, project-based mechanical engineering curriculum, aligned to meet the workforce needs of Houston,” said Dr. Katie Evans, Dean of the College of Science & Engineering.

The project team will engage workforce development organizations, engineering professional associations and industry partners across engineering, manufacturing, energy and technology sectors. Partners will support curriculum development, provide internships and project-based learning and assist with job placement. Additional partners include the U.S. Census Bureau, which will provide data on graduates’ earnings and employment outcomes. The Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors will also encourage MEEN students to complete the Fundamentals of Engineering exam.

For more information on HCU’s Mechanical Engineering program, visit the College of Science & Engineering website.

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About Houston Christian University

For more than 60 years, Houston Christian University has equipped students to lead, collaborate and embody a deep sense of spiritual purpose. The University offers a wide range of majors, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs, as well as NCAA Division I athletics in the Southland Conference. Located in the heart of one of the nation’s largest metropolitan centers, HCU’s culture of excellence molds the next generation of educated disciples to be pillars in their communities, preparing them to think critically and biblically as they impact the world