Mike Feinberg Creates Comprehensive Support System for Career Success

Recognizing that technical skills alone often aren’t sufficient for sustainable employment, educational leader Mike Feinberg has developed a holistic approach to workforce development that addresses multiple barriers to career success.

After decades in education that began with Teach for America in 1991, Feinberg identified critical gaps in how traditional educational systems prepare students for employment. This insight led to the creation of several interconnected initiatives under the Texas School Venture Fund, established in 2018.

The fund’s flagship program, WorkTexas, offers free training in high-demand trades including electrical work, welding, and medical assistance. What distinguishes the initiative is its comprehensive support system extending well beyond technical instruction.

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

To address these challenges, Feinberg has forged strategic partnerships with organizations providing housing assistance, transportation support, and childcare services. The program has established three childcare centers and supports a network of 17 more through public-private partnerships, addressing what Feinberg describes as “childcare deserts” in the communities they serve.

The workforce development innovator has also created Project Remix Ventures, offering entrepreneurial opportunities for justice-involved youth. The program allows participants to earn income creating products they learned to make during training, providing critical workplace experience in a supportive environment.

“Our kids are all involved in the juvenile justice system,” notes program director Vanessa Ramirez. “Project Remix Ventures allows us to continue to provide guardrails until they’re equipped with the life skills to make that transition.”

Through this integrated ecosystem of support, Feinberg demonstrates how education and training programs can effectively address complex barriers to employment while creating sustainable pathways to economic mobility for underserved communities.