Ribbon Cutting Celebrates New Opportunities for Students and Community at Nextlink Empowerment Center

As the ribbon was officially cut, applause reflected a shared sense of pride and optimism. Leaders from each partnering organization emphasized that the Empowerment Center represents more than a new facility — it marks a commitment to collaboration, education, and economic growth for Chilton and the surrounding communities.

Community leaders, educators, students and local partners gathered February 26, 2026 to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of the new Community Empowerment Center, a collaborative effort designed to expand educational access, workforce readiness, and community connectivity for residents across the region.

Nextlink Internet has partnered with Falls County Texas, Chilton ISD, and the City of Golinda to advance digital opportunities and community empowerment through reliable broadband access, technology resources, and innovative education and workforce programs.

The new center represents a partnership between Nextlink Internet, McLennan Community College (MCC), Chilton ISD, and Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas. Together, the organizations aim to create a space where education, career preparation, and community support intersect.

Located on the Chilton campus and serving residents throughout Falls County, the Empowerment Center will provide evening access to technology, training resources, and educational opportunities for students and adults alike. Extended hours are especially important for working families who may not have access to reliable internet or workforce services during the day.

“This center is about opportunity, and ensures the students and community members have the tools they need to succeed — whether that means preparing for college, entering the workforce, or learning new skills.”

A highlight of the initiative is its direct investment in local students. Two Chilton High School seniors, Xander Nowaski and Arisbeida Barcenas Perez, each received $500 Digital Navigator Scholarships. The positions are designed to provide real-world job experience while helping students build professional skills such as customer service, technology support, and workplace responsibility.

The Empowerment Center will include assistance with college enrollment, workforce training connections, job-search support, and access to online learning platforms. Organizers hope the center will become a hub where residents can pursue certifications, complete coursework, and explore career pathways without leaving the county.

Community members attending the ribbon cutting expressed excitement about the long-term impact of the project, noting that rural communities often face barriers to access that initiatives like this help overcome.

With doors now open in the evenings, organizers invite residents of all ages to visit, explore available resources, and take advantage of opportunities designed to strengthen both individual futures and the community.