Texas has over 13,500 firearm-related businesses and 31,000+ firearm industry jobs, yet no public college in our state offers a dedicated gunsmithing program. I’m Legizurea Minaudo, an expert in gunsmithing specializing in repair and customization while using hand tools, welding, and finishing. I’m urging Paris Junior College (PJC) to launch Texas’s first public Gunsmithing Associate's Degree and Certificate program in Spring 2026.

This program will strengthen Texas by training skilled gunsmiths to meet industry and community needs. PJC, with its rural Paris roots and a legacy of precision training (like its Horology program), is the ideal place to pioneer this effort. Here’s what it offers:

Practical Skills: Students will learn to repair, customize, and maintain firearms using hand tools like files and jigs, GTAW welding, and finishes like bluing and Cerakote, plus how to apply for state and federal licenses (e.g., FFL, SOT).
Economic Impact: Graduates can fill over 31,000 Texas firearm jobs—repair technicians, customizers, sales roles—earning $36,000-$50,000 annually, supporting local shops and companies like Maverick Arms.
Firearm Safety: Trained gunsmiths will enhance firearm safety and promote responsible ownership, critical in a state where 45.7% of households own guns.
Flexible Training: A 60-credit Associate’s Degree and a 30-credit Certificate provide options for quick workforce entry or advanced mastery.
Other states like California have public gunsmithing programs—Texas, with its massive firearm industry, deserves one too. Dr. Stephen M. Benson can approve this 4-semester program at PJC, and Rep. Gary VanDeaver can secure state resources to make it happen. Together, they can keep talent in Northeast Texas and set a new standard for vocational education.

What We’re Asking:

Dr. Benson: Approve the Gunsmithing program for Spring 2026, starting January 11, 2026, with a 60-credit AAS and 30-credit certificate.
Rep. VanDeaver: Advocate for state funding and support to launch this first-in-Texas initiative.
Sign this petition to bring gunsmithing education to Texas’s public colleges. Share it with friends who value skilled trades, firearm safety, and local jobs. Let’s make PJC a leader in equipping Texans for the firearm industry!

About me"I hold two Associate’s degrees in Firearm Repair and Gunsmithing from Lassen Community College, along with several gunsmithing certifications obtained through Lassen. I am also a certified NRA Firearms Instructor for pistol, rifle, and shotgun disciplines. With over 10 years of experience as a gunsmith and four years (as of July 2025) teaching gunsmithing as a college professor, I offer extensive expertise and a proven commitment to advancing firearms education and craftsmanship."

Sincerely,
Legizurea Minaudo
Gunsmithing Expert and Proposed PJC Program Lead