Employment in Lacy Lakeview, Texas¶
Lacy Lakeview's economy is anchored by its proximity to major transportation routes and its role as a hub for technical education and aerospace. The city is home to Texas State Technical College and is adjacent to a major aerospace and defense contractor, making it a key employment center in McLennan County.
Major Industry Segments¶
According to Data USA, the largest industry segments for residents of Lacy Lakeview are:
- Manufacturing and Aerospace: This is a dominant sector, largely due to the presence of a major aerospace company.
- Education: The city is home to a major technical college.
- Healthcare and Social Assistance: A significant number of residents work in this sector, likely in facilities in the greater Waco area.
- Retail Trade: Retail is a key source of local employment.
Major Employers¶
Education¶
- Texas State Technical College (TSTC): The flagship campus of TSTC is located in Lacy Lakeview. As a leading provider of technical education in Texas, TSTC is a major employer and is actively expanding. Key 2025–2026 developments:
- Construction Technologies Center (opened March 26, 2026): A new 120,000 sq ft facility housing Building Construction Technology, Electrical Construction, HVAC Technology, Plumbing & Pipefitting, and Solar Energy Technology programs — each growing enrollment by 30–40%.
- The WorkSITE (opened February 2025): A $17 million accelerated training facility at Texas Central Park, developed with the City of Waco and McLennan County.
- AI Implementation Specialist Certificate program in development (target: fall 2027), funded by a $198,000+ Texas TRUE Grant.
- Lowe's Foundation funding received for the Waco campus in March 2026.
- Expected Roles: Instructors (welding, automotive, construction, computer science, HVAC, aviation, etc.), administrative staff, student services, and facilities management.
- Source: TSTC Waco Campus | TSTC Construction Technologies Center
- Connally Independent School District: The public school system serving the community.
- Expected Roles: Teachers, administrators, support staff, and other education-related positions.
Manufacturing & Aerospace¶
- L3Harris Technologies: A major aerospace and defense contractor with a large aircraft modification center at the TSTC Waco Airport. As of August 2025, L3Harris has over 900 employees in Waco and is actively growing. In August 2025, the company officially shifted OA-1K Skyraider II production from Oklahoma to Waco, establishing a Center of Excellence for the program. This brought ~70 immediate new jobs and could add up to 300 additional employees over the next five years. The program is on track to achieve Initial Operational Capability (IOC) by end of FY2026. L3Harris has a strong pipeline partnership with TSTC graduates.
- Expected Roles: Aerospace, mechanical, and electrical engineers, aircraft mechanics, avionics technicians, machinists, program managers, security personnel, and administrative staff.
- Source: KWBU — Skyraider II Expansion | L3Harris Press Release
Healthcare¶
While there are no major hospitals located directly within Lacy Lakeview, the healthcare and social assistance sector is a major source of employment for its residents. Proximity to major medical centers in Waco, such as those operated by Baylor Scott & White and Ascension Providence, provides numerous job opportunities.
- Expected Roles: Nurses, physicians, medical assistants, therapists, and administrative staff at nearby hospitals and clinics.
Retail and Other Services¶
Lacy Lakeview has a variety of local and national retailers, restaurants, and service businesses that provide employment opportunities. These include gas stations, convenience stores, and small businesses that cater to the local community and the student population of TSTC.
Career Opportunities¶
Lacy Lakeview offers significant career opportunities, particularly for those with technical skills. The presence of TSTC and L3Harris creates a high demand for skilled technicians, engineers, and other professionals in the aerospace and manufacturing sectors. The city's location within the Waco metropolitan area also provides residents with access to a broader range of jobs in healthcare, education, and other industries.
This information is based on publicly available data and is subject to change. For the most current job openings, it is recommended to consult online job boards and the websites of the companies listed.