Rio Grande Valley, TX (KRGV) — Gov. Greg Abbott announced more than $20 million in career training grants across Texas, according to a news release from the governor's office.

The 84 Jobs and Education for Texans grants, awarded by the Texas Workforce Commission, went to public junior, state and technical colleges, school districts and open enrollment charter schools.

The money will help schools buy equipment to start or improve career and technical education programs. In the first year, the new equipment will help train more than 7,400 students.

South Texas College received $216,293 to train 200 students as licensed practical and vocational nurses.

Texas State Technical College received $339,480 to train 254 students as automotive service technicians and mechanics.

La Joya ISD and Mercedes ISD received funding to train students as HVAC mechanics and installers in partnership with STC. La Joya ISD received $353,686 to train 30 students and Mercedes ISD received $272,556 to train 14 students.

Lasara ISD received $321,328 to train 80 students as HVAC mechanics and installers and Raymondville ISD received $198,973 to train 50 students as registered nurses. Both districts are in partnership with Texas Southmost College.

The grants help eligible schools cover start up costs for career and technical education programs tied to jobs in demand.