Abacus proves an influential partner
Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning, and Electrical has proved to be an influential partner of the San Jacinto College Plumbing Technology Program.
To help launch the program in fall 2023, Abacus and one of its longtime suppliers, National Wholesale Supply, donated tools, equipment, piping, hardware, and other materials to outfit the hands-on training lab.
“To build an exceptional plumbing program along the Gulf Coast requires a great amount of support from industry, and Abacus has stepped up to support this project and ensure we have the right facility to fill the workforce gaps,” said Durrell Dickens, consumer services and legal professions department chair. “If you were to define the ideal workforce partner and advisory member, it would look just like Abacus. They never hesitate to help with any need, even supporting our electrical and HVAC programs.”
Established in 2003, the greater Houston area company has garnered a reputation for top-notch service and high-quality workmanship.
“Abacus is committed to helping develop the workforce of the future by forming partnerships like the one we have with San Jac,” said Tony Patiño, Abacus president. “It is important for us to help provide a pathway to the industry for future plumbers and educate students about the opportunities in the trades.”
According to Dickens, Abacus has also supported the program by mentoring students and hosting field trips to their facilities.
“Originally, our focus was solely on plumbing, but it soon became apparent that there was also a significant demand in the HVAC and electrical sectors,” said Patiño. “Hosting these students at our facility and offering them a real-world glimpse into the trades has been a tremendously positive experience for everyone involved.”
Joey Scheffler, Abacus business development representative and plumbing advisory committee chair, has spoken at local high schools to advocate for craft trades and recruit dual credit students for the plumbing program. Scheffler also helped recruit and hire the program’s only full-time instructor, a retired Abacus plumber.
“There is a major shortage of plumbers, HVAC technicians, and electricians. The average age of most plumbers is 50 and above,” said Scheffler. “With an aging workforce, it is important that we educate students in high school about careers in those fields. The opportunity to partner with San Jac and help shape the curriculum sets those students up for success and prepares them to work for us or any other company as soon as they graduate.”
The collaboration between Abacus and San Jac has already begun to show its positive impact. By investing in education and training, Abacus not only helps bridge the skills gap but also contributes to the growth and development of the local community. This partnership shows the power of industry and education working hand in hand to create a brighter future for all.
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About San Jacinto College
Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris County, Texas, since 1961. The College is ranked second in the nation among more than 1,100 community colleges, as designated by the Aspen Institute and was named an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction in 2020. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution that spans five campuses, plus an online college, San Jacinto College serves approximately 45,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding bond ratings of AA+ by Standard & Poor’s and Aa2 by Moody’s.
