Mike Feinberg Bridges Education-Employment Gap for Underserved Communities

Dr. Mike Feinberg, president and co-founder of Texas School Venture Fund, has dedicated over three decades to expanding educational opportunities in underserved areas. His focus has shifted from college preparation to developing comprehensive career pathways for students of all backgrounds.

“When we started in the early ’90s, expectations were just about keeping kids in school,” Feinberg notes. “Now we’re recognizing that college prep doesn’t need to mean college for all.”

This realization led to the creation of WorkTexas in 2020, which provides skills-based training across various trades including electrical work, welding, carpentry, and more recently, medical assistant and culinary skills training. The program partners with over 140 employers who contribute directly to curriculum development.

What makes the initiative distinctive is its holistic approach. Beyond technical skills, participants receive critical soft skills training and ongoing support addressing challenges like transportation, housing, and childcare.

“A lot of people we train are one flat tire away from disaster,” explains the workforce development advocate. “You’re not going to do well in your job if you’re homeless or hungry, or your car stops working.”

This comprehensive strategy has yielded impressive results. Approximately 70% of graduates secure new or better employment with an average starting wage of $19.10 per hour.

Through the Texas School Venture Fund, Feinberg has also launched Neighborhood Preschools and Project Remix Ventures, programs designed to create a continuum of support from early childhood through career placement.

Feinberg’s innovative approach represents a significant evolution in educational philosophy, addressing both immediate workforce needs and long-term career sustainability for participants and their families.