Made in Texas: Industry, Education & Workforce Development

Education and workforce development in Bastrop County are currently undergoing a major transformation, driven by massive industrial growth from companies like SpaceX and The Boring Company. 

University of Austin (UATX): This new "startup university" is establishing a significant physical presence in Bastrop County. In early 2026, it was revealed that UATX is deepening its partnership with The Boring Company through a new 18,000-square-foot applied engineering lab located at FM 1209 and Walker Watson Road. This lab is designed for hands-on, industry-aligned learning.

Austin Community College (ACC): While there is no flagship campus in the city of Bastrop, ACC serves the county through its Elgin Campus and local centers. ACC provides over 235 associate degrees and certificates, including high-demand workforce training in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and computer science.

Texas State University (Initiative): As of late 2025, Bastrop leaders have formally launched an initiative to attract a Texas State University campus or instructional center to the area to support local technology and healthcare priorities. 

Bastrop’s workforce strategy is shifting toward technical skills to match its "tech-industrial corridor" growth. 

Create A Job, Save A Job Program: A new $2 million initiative launched in late 2025 aims to recruit and train 125 Bastrop County residents annually for high-paying healthcare careers within the county.

Smithville Workforce Training Center: This center connects local job seekers with industry-based credentialed courses and placement services.Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area: This organization hosts quarterly job fairs (such as the January 2026 event) and provides no-cost recruitment and apprenticeship programs for local employers.