Workforce Solutions East Texas Receives Prestigious CTAT Champion for CTE Award, Nominated by Tyler ISD

Workforce Solutions East Texas • September 18, 2024

In a momentous recognition of its dedication to shaping the future of education and workforce development, Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) has been awarded the Career & Technical Association of Texas (CTAT) Champion for CTE Award. This prestigious honor, which highlights exemplary leadership in supporting Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, was bestowed upon the organization following a nomination from Tyler ISD, a long-standing partner in education and workforce initiatives.


The CTAT Champion for CTE Award is reserved for individuals and organizations that go above and beyond in promoting and expanding CTE programs, benefiting both students and the industries they will one day serve. Workforce Solutions East Texas earned this accolade by continuously demonstrating its commitment to bridging the gap between education and the workforce, creating invaluable opportunities for students to gain the skills necessary for the modern job market.


A Partnership to Empower Students

Tyler ISD's nomination of WSET comes as no surprise to those familiar with the partnership between the school district and the workforce development agency. For years, they have collaborated to provide students with hands-on learning experiences, real-world exposure, and direct pathways into in-demand careers. Through the partnership, students at Tyler ISD have been given access to internships, certifications, and mentorships that would not have been possible without WSET’s network and support.


A Vision for a Stronger Workforce

Workforce Solutions East Texas has long been a pillar of innovation in workforce development, especially in rural and underserved areas. Their “Rural, Set, Go” initiative, designed to bring workforce readiness programs to rural communities, has garnered significant attention for creating equal access to career-building resources. The success of this initiative has ensured that students, regardless of where they live, have access to critical technical education and workforce opportunities.


WSET has also been a crucial player in fostering partnerships with local businesses, industries, and educational institutions. By working with Tyler ISD and other East Texas school districts, WSET ensures that students gain the technical skills that match the needs of regional industries, from manufacturing and healthcare to IT and skilled trades.


The Road Ahead

As the CTAT Champion for CTE Award recipient, Workforce Solutions East Texas is expected to serve as a model for other workforce development organizations across Texas and beyond. Their approach to building partnerships with local school districts, like Tyler ISD, has proven that a collaborative and focused effort can yield transformative results for students and communities alike.


WSET plans to continue expanding its services and programs, particularly in light of the recognition from CTAT. New initiatives, expanded partnerships, and even more career pathways are on the horizon as the organization seeks to empower the next generation of workers with the skills, confidence, and resources they need to succeed.


About Workforce Solutions East Texas

Workforce Solutions East Texas is a comprehensive workforce development organization dedicated to providing employment services, job training, and career resources for residents across East Texas. Through collaborations with businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations, WSET is committed to creating a vibrant and competitive workforce that meets the needs of the modern economy.

For Tyler ISD, the partnership with WSET has been instrumental in ensuring their CTE students are prepared for the future and ready to lead in their chosen fields.


As Workforce Solutions East Texas receives the CTAT Champion for CTE Award, the future looks brighter than ever for East Texas students, who will continue to benefit from the agency's dedication to empowering the workforce of tomorrow.

August 4th Regionwide Job Fair Employers List

July 28, 2026
Tuesday, August 4 | Athens, Longview, Marshall, Palestine, and Tyler

Texas Job Market Grows by More Than 177,000 Positions Over the Year

July 20, 2026
Texas added 43,400 nonfarm jobs in June to reach a total of 14,469,600 positions. Over the year, the state added 177,900 jobs for an annual growth rate of 1.2 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.9 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,904,900 after adding 3,400 people over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 29,700 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.4 percent. “Texas’ continued job growth is a testament to the strength of our employers and robust workforce development system,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “The addition of more than 177,000 jobs over the year reinforces Texas’ reputation among employers as the best place to start and grow a business.” The Professional and Business Services industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in June after adding 25,500 jobs. Leisure and Hospitality added 10,300 jobs over the month while Trade, Transportation, and Utilities added 6,400. “The growth of the Texas labor market highlights the incredible talent and dedication of our state’s workforce,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “The Texas Workforce Commission is committed to ensuring every Texan has the support they need to thrive, whether through training opportunities to gain new skills or specialized programs that help our foster youth transition into successful careers.” The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.6 percent in June. It was followed by the San Angelo MSA at 3.9 percent and the Abilene MSA at 4.0 percent. “With an annual growth rate of 1.2 percent, Texas continues to outpace the national average and demonstrate economic resilience,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “Both job seekers and employers can seek customized career services and recruitment assistance by visiting our TWC website or their local Workforce Solutions office.” 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 July is scheduled to be released on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).

Building Connections, Strengthening Child Care

July 20, 2026
Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services is proud to partner with the Panola County Chamber of Commerce to support child care leaders across the region. Through this partnership, the Chamber provides a welcoming meeting space for Directors Connect training designed to help early learning program owners and directors connect, learn, and grow together. The partnership was made possible through the support of Keri Perot-Vance, Executive Director of the Panola County Chamber of Commerce, whose commitment to community collaboration helped create a space where child care leaders can come together to share ideas, discuss challenges, and strengthen their leadership skills. The partnership began in 2025 in response to daycare owners expressing a need for accessible training opportunities. Recognizing this need, Panola County Chamber of Commerce graciously offered to host the Directors Connect training in its beautiful historic building. This collaboration provides child care professionals with the opportunity to earn professional development hours required to remain in compliance with Child Care Regulation and Texas Rising Star. Tonia Crawford and Aerial Jones, Business Industry Specialists for Child Care Services and facilitators of Directors Connect, say the program has evolved into so much more than a training opportunity. It has become a space for meaningful conversations, professional connections, and shared solutions. Through these gatherings, directors are strengthening their businesses, growing as leaders, and ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided to children and families throughout East Texas. Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services is grateful for the Panola County Chamber of Commerce's ongoing support and looks forward to continuing this impactful partnership for years to come. Together, we are investing in stronger leaders, stronger child care programs, and stronger communities.
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