Celebrating the Success of the 2023 Summer Earn & Learn (SEAL) Program

Workforce Solutions East Texas • August 25, 2023

Once again, the Summer Earn & Learn (SEAL) program has proven its transformative power for students aged 14 to 22 with disabilities. This innovative initiative provides a unique avenue for these individuals to learn hard and soft skills while earning an income. By establishing intern-style partnerships with local businesses, the program creates opportunities during the summer and paves the way for these students' future entry into the workforce.


Workforce Solutions East Texas takes immense pride in the impact of the SEAL program on students' skill development and overall personal growth. Throughout the summer, these students have broadened their horizons and refined their abilities. The program strongly emphasizes hands-on experience, supported by the unwavering commitment of the students and their job coaches.


The true success of the SEAL program is best conveyed through the accomplishments of its participants. Let's look at a selection of exceptional students who've not only completed the program but have also impacted their respective work sites.


Meredith Morgan at The Upshur County Library

Meredith Morgan's journey embodies the essence of the SEAL program, as she completed a five-week internship at the Upshur County Library. Her exceptional customer service and organizational prowess were evident during her time at the front desk. Meredith aspires to become a veterinarian, and the skills she learned through this program will help her achieve her dreams.


LaDarrion Ford, Skylah Slaten, & Micah Johnson at Goodwill in Marshall

A trio of achievement, LaDarrion Ford, Skylah Slaten, and Micah Johnson united for a Work Experience Internship at Goodwill in Marshall. Their commitment, hard work, and mentorship from job coach Thecela Cooks resulted in acquiring invaluable skills. From sorting and hanging clothing to aiding customers, these students can walk away with communication skills for future careers.


Jayden Medellin & Parker Vinson at Elijah's Retreat

Jayden Medellin and Parker Vinson embarked on a transformative journey at Elijah's Retreat in Jacksonville, underscoring the influence of teamwork and personal development. Flourishing while caring for animals and tending to the retreat's grounds, these two bright students showcased their dedication, hard work, and infectious enthusiasm. Their success highlights how the SEAL program positively shapes personal and professional growth.


Lelan Meza at CVS

Tasked with CVS in Tyler, Lelan's professionalism, eagerness to learn, and impeccable work ethic did not go unnoticed. His contributions extended beyond the store's confines, leaving an impression on a neighboring business manager. Lelan's dedication yielded significant rewards by securing an after-school position at Taco Bueno. 


As we draw the curtain on the 2023 Summer Earn & Learn (SEAL) program, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all participants who've experienced exceptional growth and left indelible marks in their workplaces. The program's influence spans beyond the summer, laying the foundation for these remarkable students to flourish in their local workforces and communities. Our gratitude extends to all contributors—students, families, job coaches, and local businesses alike—for collaboratively shaping the success of SEAL and empowering these students to construct bright and promising futures.


Learn more about the programs and services within Vocational Rehabilitation by visiting www.easttexasworkforce.org/vocational-rehabilitation-services.

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October 27, 2026
Texas recorded a total of 14,461,300 nonfarm jobs after shedding 11,100 positions in September. Over the year, the state added 154,300 jobs for an annual growth rate of 1.1 percent, outpacing the national rate by 0.8 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,948,400 after adding 15,800 people over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 3,600 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.4 percent. “The addition of more than 154,000 jobs over the year reflects balanced growth across Texas industries,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “Texas continues to outpace the nation because of innovative programs like Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants, which are equipping students with skills that help businesses compete today and plan for tomorrow.” The Manufacturing industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in September after adding 4,700 jobs. Professional and Business Services added 1,600 jobs over the month while Information added 1,400. “The 15.9 million Texans in our labor force drive our economy, and TWC is dedicated to fueling their success,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “Through statewide initiatives like our annual Hiring Red, White & You! career fairs and the Texas HireAbility campaign, we are actively connecting Texans of all abilities with the critical training and resources they need to build prosperous, lifelong careers.” The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.2 percent in September. It was followed by the Abilene, Amarillo, College Station-Bryan, and San Angelo MSAs, which registered at 3.5 percent. “TWC is focused on ensuring that every Texan can find a rewarding career that allows them to contribute their unique skills and experiences to our economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “Initiatives like this month’s Texas HireAbility campaign help strengthen our communities and allow Texas businesses to tap into a dedicated and driven talent pool.” 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 September is scheduled to be released on Friday, November 20, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).
October 26, 2026
This November, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is hosting the 15th Annual Hiring Red, White & You! event series. The series includes nearly 30 hiring events across the state from Nov. 2-20 to connect veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses to Texas employers. The local event in Tyler will take place on Nov. 10th at 1421 S. Beckham, Tyler, TX 75701, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. "Texas is the best place for veterans and military families,” said Governor Greg Abbott. "More than 1.4 million veterans call our great state home. Their skills and leadership make our economy stronger. These hiring events put their talents to work." "Texas is proud to be home to more than 1.4 million veterans, whose unmatched leadership, dedication, and technical skills make them invaluable assets to our state's economy,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “The Hiring Red, White & You! initiative is our way of thanking these brave men and women by directly connecting them with world-class career opportunities in Texas.” TWC partners on the events with Texas Workforce Solutions, Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), and the Texas Medical Center. “As a Navy veteran, I know firsthand the value veterans bring to the workplace,” said Texas Veterans Commission Chairwoman Laura Koerner. “Hiring Red, White & You! creates important opportunities for veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses across Texas. We’re grateful to the Governor, our friends at TWC, employers and all of our partners who work alongside us to serve those who served.” Since 2012, these free hiring events have connected more than 28,000 employers with 167,000 job seekers, including 56,157 active-duty military, transitioning service members, veterans, and their spouses. Hiring Red, White & You! events have also resulted in more than 4,100 same-day hires. “Texas veterans and military spouses possess a world-class work ethic and diverse talents that are ready to be put to work today,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “Through the Hiring Red, White & You! event series, we are making sure our military community has the direct connections they need to find rewarding, high-demand careers that honor their service.” Employers can participate in Hiring Red, White & You! at no cost and are encouraged to visit TWC’s Hiring Red, White & You page for more information. Through the WeHireVets initiative, TWC also recognizes businesses in which veterans make up at least 10% of the workforce. “Hiring a veteran is more than a way to honor their service—it's also a smart business decision that brings valuable skills and experience to the workplace,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “Through programs like Hiring Red, White & You! and WeHireVets recognition, we are encouraging employers to tap into this highly skilled talent pool.” For information on all veteran workforce services available in Texas, visit twc.texas.gov/veterans .
By Workforce Solutions East Texas • October 6, 2026
Workforce Solutions East Texas is seeking employer partners for Hiring Red, White & You!, the local celebration of Texas’ statewide veterans hiring event. Join us on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at the Tyler Workforce Center, 1421 S. Beckham Ave., Tyler. The opening ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by the hiring event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hiring Red, White & You! connects employers with veterans, transitioning service members, military spouses, and other qualified East Texas job seekers. It is an opportunity to meet candidates whose military experience often reflects leadership, adaptability, communication skills, and a strong commitment to service. This event is open to the public, making it an excellent opportunity to promote current openings and build your organization’s talent pipeline. Employer participation is available at no cost. Across Texas, Hiring Red, White & You! events have connected more than 26,000 employers with 153,000 job seekers, including more than 52,000 veterans. Employers who hire qualifying veterans may also be eligible for federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit benefits of up to $9,600 per eligible hire. Reserve your employer space today by registering at www.EastTexasWorkforce.org/hrwy .
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