News & Announcements

Are you passionate about children and eager to positively impact their lives? Do you dream of opening your own child care center but feel overwhelmed by the process? Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services (WSET-CCS) is here to help! Why Child Care? Starting a child care center is a significant undertaking, but it's achievable with the proper guidance and resources. WSET-CCS provides personal insights, practical tips, and expert advice to help you navigate the complexities of launching and managing a successful child care business. Partnering with Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services We understand that turning your dream into reality requires more than passion and determination – it requires support and resources. Here's how WSET-CCS can help: Funding Assistance: Securing funding is often one of the biggest challenges for aspiring child care providers. Our team can guide you through grants and funding streams to support establishing and expanding child care centers. Whether you need help covering startup costs or investing in facility upgrades, we can guide you through the application process and connect you with the resources you need to succeed. Support Services: Starting a child care business involves many tasks, from developing a business plan to navigating regulatory requirements. Our team provides personalized support services to help you confidently tackle these challenges. Experienced staff offers guidance from licensing and accreditation to curriculum development and staff training, ensuring you have the knowledge and resources to operate a high-quality childcare center. Hiring Assistance: Building a team of qualified and dedicated staff is essential for the success of your child care center. Workforce Solutions East Texas offers recruitment and hiring assistance to help you find the right candidates for your organization. Whether you're looking for teachers, caregivers, or administrative staff, their job placement services can connect you with talented individuals who share your passion for early childhood education. Professional Development: Continuous learning and professional development are crucial to staying competitive in the child care industry. Our team provides resources for in-person and online training programs and workshops to help you enhance your skills and knowledge as a childcare provider. Our resources empower you to grow and thrive as a child care provider, from early childhood education best practices to business management strategies. Join Our Community! Are you ready to turn your vision of owning a child care center into a reality? We're here to support you every step of the way. Give us a call or meet with one of our staff members to learn more. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families in our community. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!

In the diverse landscape of neurodiversity, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents a unique set of challenges and strengths for individuals seeking employment. Just as each person with ASD is unique, their needs and aspirations in the workforce are too. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) plays a crucial role in assisting individuals with ASD in their journey towards a successful career. VR counselors work hand in hand with individuals and contracted providers to explore job opportunities, evaluate accommodations, and create personalized employment plans. Supported Employment Services, a cornerstone of VR, offers structured guidance, enabling individuals to integrate into the workforce while gradually building their support networks. By considering geographical preferences, desired work hours, and on-the-job training goals, individuals with ASD can chart a course toward sustainable employment. This tailored approach ensures a smooth transition into the workforce, fostering a sense of confidence and competence. For more information and resources, consider reaching out to your local Vocational Rehabilitation Office. Remember, there's support available to help you navigate the path to employment with confidence. Visit www.easttexasworkforce.org/vocational-rehabilitation-services . 

The National Association for the Education of Young Children invites you to celebrate and spotlight your classroom, advocacy, and family engagement activities during the Week of the Young Child (WOYC).

The Marshall Economic Development Corporation, in collaboration with the City of Marshall, Workforce Solutions East Texas, and the Texas Workforce Commission's Jobs Y'all program, recently hosted an extraordinary event that illuminated the pathways to success for students, parents, businesses, and educators alike. The "Spring Training: Building Together, Winning Together Career Fair 2024" went far beyond the traditional job fair format, transforming into a dynamic platform for career exploration and discovery. Held under one roof, the career fair provided a comprehensive overview of the myriad career opportunities thriving in Marshall and across East Texas. With over 700 students, representatives from 50 local companies, and multiple colleges in attendance, the event was a resounding success, sparking enthusiasm and igniting aspirations. This immersive experience offered students invaluable insights into potential career paths and tailored educational opportunities. Through interactive demonstrations and engaging discussions, attendees directly engaged with industry professionals, gaining firsthand knowledge of the skills and qualifications required for various professions. Executive Director of Marshall Economic Development, Rush Harris, CEcD, was enthusiastic about the participation across sectors. “We saw students from five ISDs come to Marshall, Texas, to visit with all kinds of businesses and educators and learn what their future jobs might look like. It’s not just for the students, though. The event also lets businesses and educators communicate about skills training demand and supply. Additionally, it connects all parties to Workforce Solutions East Texas. We could not do events like this without their partnership!” The presence of local businesses underscored the vibrant economic landscape of Marshall, shedding light on the diverse job opportunities available within the community. The "Spring Training: Building Together, Winning Together Career Fair 2024" exemplified the power of collaboration and collective effort in shaping the future workforce. By bringing together students, parents, businesses, educators, and workforce professionals, the event fostered a sense of community and shared purpose, laying the foundation for a thriving and prosperous future for Marshall and the East Texas region.

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has launched a new mobile app to help Texans explore potential career pathways and discover step-by-step resources to achieve their goals. With the launch of MyTXCareer app , job seekers can now find personalized occupation matches and recommended career paths based on their skills, interests, and experience. “The continued growth of Texas’ record-breaking economy creates opportunities for Texans to advance their careers,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “The MyTXCareer app will be an important tool for Texans to discover potential career paths and match to a job opportunity with a Texas employer.” MyTXCareer app is a free resource designed to guide users to potential careers through three easy steps: browse occupations, explore pathways, and get support. While browsing occupations, users can view the average salary for the position, job demand, and position descriptions. “The MyTXCareer app will help Texans unlock potential opportunities and discover career pathways in high-demand industries,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “I encourage job seekers and people wanting a career change to download the app and begin to build the skills needed for a new career in the Lone Star State.” Users can take a career personality quiz, and add their career goals, education, work experience, and skills. The app provides several possible career paths and information about resources and training. Users can request more information, which will connect them with their local Workforce Solutions office and TWC’s TX Credential Connect team. “The launch of MyTXCareer app is great news for Texas employers because it helps them hire people who are passionate about what they do in the best state in the nation,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “This is one of the many innovative services TWC provides to make sure skilled workers are available for Texas employers who need them.” MyTXCareer is available for download in the App Store and on Google Play for iOS and Android mobile phones. The application is provided free to users and does not include advertising or in-app purchases. 

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Mark Shaw found himself unemployed like hundreds of others across East Texas. From his military experience, Mark was determined to overcome the challenge and find employment. Through Workforce Solutions East Texas, he was introduced to the National Displaced Workers Grant (NDWG) and was placed at CampV as the facility manager. Mark's work ethic and drive quickly caught the attention of CampV director Travis Gladhill. Throughout the eight-month program, Mark demonstrated his value through dedication and exceptional performance. Gladhill recognized his potential and offered him a permanent position following the grant period. Mark's journey didn't end with securing a job at CampV. As he settled into his role, his leadership qualities became evident. His dedication to the community and ability to engage with others led him to the role of Community Engagement Manager. Reflecting on his journey, Mark acknowledges the role that Workforce Solutions East Texas played in his life. The NDWG grant gave him a job and a lifeline to other veterans. With his newfound stability, Mark has achieved significant milestones, including financial security, homeownership, and a higher quality of life. In a recent interview with WSET, Mark expressed profound gratitude for the support he received. He emphasized how Workforce Solutions East Texas empowered him to overcome challenges and realize his potential. Mark Shaw's journey from pandemic displacement to community leadership shows that resilience and determination can lead to profound personal and professional growth. His story reminds us that with the proper support, individuals can overcome and emerge stronger than ever before. To learn more about programs and services through WSET, visit → www.easttexasworkforce.org/career-seekers . To learn more about veteran resources and Camp V, visit www.campvtyler.org .

Living with epilepsy presents a unique set of challenges, impacting various aspects of daily life, including employment opportunities. Whether you're considering returning to work or seeking employment for the first time after an epilepsy diagnosis, understanding your condition and accessing the proper support is crucial for success. Tailoring Work Environment to Individual Needs One key to successful employment after diagnosis is recognizing potential environmental triggers and making appropriate accommodations. For instance, if sensory overload or high stress causes seizure episodes, seeking a job with minimal public interaction or having the flexibility to step away from tasks when needed can be vital strategies. The Role of Vocational Rehabilitation Services Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors can help individuals with epilepsy navigate the job market. By understanding their unique needs and challenges, these counselors can connect them with the right services and support. Accessing Vocational Rehabilitation Services Just as individuals with brain injuries can benefit from Vocational Rehabilitation Services, those with epilepsy can also find valuable assistance through these programs. Whether exploring job opportunities, finding necessary accommodations, or accessing community support, Vocational Rehabilitation Services is here to help. Living with epilepsy doesn't have to hinder your ability to find and maintain employment. Understanding your condition, identifying triggers, and accessing appropriate support can increase your chances of long-term success in the workforce. Remember, you're not alone on this journey, and reaching out for help can make all the difference. For more information and resources, consider reaching out to your local Vocational Rehabilitation Office. Remember, there's support available to help you navigate the path to employment with confidence. Visit www.easttexasworkforce.org/vocational-rehabilitation-services .

Securing access to top-notch job training is critical to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), covering adult, dislocated worker, and youth programs. Eligibility hinges on meeting WIOA's criteria, which include demonstrating the need for training and meeting specific income and dislocated worker status thresholds. The goal? Equipping individuals with the skills necessary for self-sufficiency. In East Texas, the available training options are strategically aligned with the occupations outlined in the East Texas Targeted Occupations List , ensuring their direct relevance and applicability to the region's workforce demands. The Statewide Eligible Training Provider List for Texas is a critical tool in facilitating access to these training programs. East Texas proudly hosts fourteen schools, encompassing community colleges and technical institutions, featured on this list, offering 460 distinct training programs. While medical, truck driver training, and mechanical/technical occupations have shown popularity over the past five years, the comprehensive Targeted Occupations list for East Texas opens up a multitude of career preparation pathways through eligible training providers. The endeavor is to present a diverse array of choices that align with both individual preferences and the dynamic employment landscape in East Texas. If you are interested in learning more about our WIOA program, complete the application at www.easttexasworkforce.org/apply .