A Testament to the Power of Workforce Assistance Programs: Bobbie Garza

Workforce Solutions East Texas • August 1, 2023

In a world where opportunities can seem scarce, Bobbie Garza's journey stands as a shining example of how workforce assistance programs can significantly impact individuals' lives. When Bobbie received a letter from Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET), little did she know that it would lead her to a life-changing orientation with the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).


Initially attending the orientation with modest expectations, Bobbie quickly realized the potential benefits that awaited her. Enrolling in the CHOICES program, which was designed to assist individuals receiving HHSC benefits, Bobbie found herself on a path toward personal and professional growth.


With her determination to find employment and the added support of program funding, Bobbie landed a job at Hawkins Creek Assisted Living and Memory Care. Six months into her tenure, she received two pay raises and was recognized as the Employee of the Month for April. Her exceptional work ethic and genuine care for visitors and residents have earned her the prestigious Life Award Recipient title.


Bobbie's success story is a testament to her hard work and dedication, but it also highlights the crucial role WSET and the CHOICES program played in her achievements. Their guidance and support have helped Bobbie secure employment and nurtured her potential to become an invaluable team member at Hawkins Creek.


With a warm smile and a friendly personality, Bobbie's interactions with the residents at Hawkins Creek have left a lasting impact. Going above and beyond her job duties, she creates an atmosphere of genuine care and compassion, making the residents feel valued and loved.


When asked about her journey, Bobbie expressed her heartfelt appreciation for WSET's unwavering support. The opportunities provided to her have truly been life-changing, and she credits the program for paving the way for her success.


Bobbie Garza's story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of workforce assistance programs. It demonstrates how, with proper support and dedication, individuals can overcome challenges and find fulfilling careers that benefit them and enrich the lives of those they touch. As more people like Bobbie are empowered through such programs, we can build a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone has the chance to thrive and contribute positively.


To learn more about the WSET CHOICES program, visit www.easttexasworkforce.org/adults.

TWC Launches New Grant to Address Workforce Readiness Gaps

By Workforce Solution East Texas • June 24, 2025
 The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is now accepting applications for Skills for Success, a special initiative with Texas State Technical College (TSTC) designed to equip Texas workers with essential workforce readiness skills. “TWC is proud to partner with TSTC on Skills for Success, a program that directly aligns with our mission to connect Texans with rewarding careers,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “We are committed to ensuring our state’s employers have access to a skilled and adaptable workforce.” Through the Skills for Success grant, TWC covers all costs of specific TSTC training courses for eligible employers to create customized training packages. Employers of any size can select courses to meet their business and staffing needs. Courses train on skills such as communication, organization, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, digital literacy, conflict resolution, time management, and more. “Skills for Success isn’t just a training program; it’s a launchpad for Texan careers,” said Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “By equipping individuals with essential soft skills, we’re empowering them to earn better wages, secure fulfilling jobs, and build stronger futures for their families and communities.” Funded through the state’s Skills Development Fund, Skills for Success is available to private employers with full-time employees working anywhere in Texas. By developing and emphasizing the importance of these foundational skills, this program aims to improve employee performance, increase retention rates, and foster a more adaptable workforce to meet the evolving needs of Texas employers. “Small, medium, and large employers across the state have expressed the need for motivated employees who demonstrate technical and workforce readiness skills, like flexibility, leadership, and attention to detail,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “The Skills for Success program will bridge a skills gap and create a stronger workforce for Texas employers.” Texas businesses interested in participating in the Skills for Success grant are encouraged to visit www.twc.texas.gov/sfs for the application, course catalog, eligibility requirements, and contact information.

East Texas Job Fairs Expand Access to Opportunities Across the Region

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • June 23, 2025
Workforce Solutions East Texas continues to strengthen its mission of connecting talent with opportunity through two recent job fairs held in June 2025, each serving a unique purpose and community need. Windows of Opportunity Job Fair (June 12, 2025) Hosted across multiple Workforce Solutions East Texas offices, the quarterly Windows of Opportunity Job Fair drew 330 job seekers and 51 employers from industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and education. The event gave attendees a chance to meet directly with hiring managers, explore job openings, and participate in on-the-spot interviews. Employers praised the turnout and the quality of candidates, while job seekers appreciated the chance to connect in person without the formal barriers of traditional hiring processes. The next Windows of Opportunity Job Fair is planned for the last quarter of 2025. For updates, visit www.easttexasworkforce.org/hiring-events . Panola County Job Fair: A Local Partnership with Big Impact (June 17, 2025) Separately, Workforce Solutions East Texas partnered with the Panola County Chamber of Commerce to host the Panola County Job Fair, focusing on connecting local job seekers and employers in a rural setting. The event welcomed 44 job seekers and 7 local employers, highlighting the value of direct outreach in communities often underserved by broader economic development efforts. “Rural areas are the backbone of East Texas, but they are sometimes overshadowed by the needs and resources of larger cities,” said Deanna Alexander, Community Engagement Area Manager. “That’s why partnerships like the one we have with the Panola County Chamber of Commerce are so essential.”  The success of the Panola County event shows how strong rural partnerships can drive long-term economic development and workforce engagement.

Texas Sets New Record High Job Count for Sixth Month in a Row

June 23, 2025
The Texas labor market set new record highs in both total jobs and the size of the civilian labor force in May. Texas added 28,100 positions over the month to reach a total of 14,340,800 nonfarm jobs. The state added 213,300 jobs over the year, which left the annual nonfarm growth rate unchanged at 1.5 percent and outpaced the national growth rate by 0.4 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force achieved another new record high of 15,839,400 after adding 24,900 people over the month and marking 59 of 61 months of growth. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 270,900 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas remained steady at 4.1 percent. “With more than 28,000 jobs added across nearly all major industries over the month, Texas exhibits a skilled workforce,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “Texas continues to be a top state for growth and economic success with thousands of jobs added by employers in May.” The Trade, Transportation, and Utilities industry had the largest over-the-month increase in May after adding 8,400 jobs. Leisure and Hospitality added 8,200 jobs over the month while Private Education and Health Services added 4,300. In addition, the Construction industry grew by 3.4 percent over the year in Texas and outperformed the industry’s growth rate nationally by 1.9 percentage points. “The strength of Texas' economy lies in its hardworking people, attracting businesses and fueling growth across numerous industries,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “Through strategic investments in apprenticeships and training, we're empowering Texas workers with the skills they need to thrive in high-paying, fulfilling careers, ensuring the state remains a beacon of economic opportunity for all.” The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.0 percent in May, followed by the Amarillo and San Angelo MSAs at 3.1 percent. “Texas employers are pioneering new technologies, embracing innovation, and creating tens of thousands of new jobs in the process,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “As Texas businesses define the cutting edge of an evolving, global market, TWC resources like Skills Development Fund grants and Upskill Texas are helping them meet their workforce needs.”  Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. *All estimates are subject to revision. To access this and more employment data, visit TexasLMI.com . The Texas Labor Market Information Data for June is scheduled to be released on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).
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