Blinn College Customs Specialist Scholars Training Program

Issue:

The finding trained, entry-level Customs Compliance Specialists represents a critical concern for U.S. importers and exporters, and U.S. industries that depend on the movement of goods across our borders.

Objective:

This project will help fill the need for entry-level Customs Compliance Specialists by supporting the launch of a new non-degree, workforce training program at Blinn College. Also to enhance the professional development and career interests of students and make them aware of career opportunities within the homeland security enterprise. 

Value Proposition:

This effort combines the strengths of Blinn College’s applied technology, workforce development expertise with a leading industry certification program developed by the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America. The Blinn Customs Specialist Scholars Training Program will provide opportunities for students to develop hands-on technical skills and conduct research to help provide solutions to DHS mission-relevant problems.

Project Lead	Blinn Community College Bryan, Texas
Research Team	Co-PI: Jimmy Byrd, Ph.D. Blinn College District Co-PI: Karla Flanagan, MBA Blinn College District Co-PI Jay Anderson Blinn College District Co-PI: Katlin Shoemaker CBTS Industry Mentor: Cynthia F. Whittenburg National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America
Budget	$20,460
Duration	August 2023 – July 2024

CBTS Contact: Katlin Shoemaker – Katlin.Shoemaker@ag.tamu.edu

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Materials for program participants