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.

Texas Adds More than 46,000 Jobs in March

May 1, 2026
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Resilient Texas Job Market Shows Industry-Specific Growth as Unemployment Remains Stable

April 22, 2026
The total number of nonfarm jobs in Texas registered at 14,354,600 after decreasing by 8,500 positions in February. Over the year, the state added 73,800 jobs for an annual nonfarm growth rate of 0.5 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.4 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,941,800 after decreasing by 13,400 over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 121,200 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas remained stable at 4.3 percent. “Texas’ over-the-year growth trajectory remains strong because we have cultivated a pro-business climate that helps employers grow and generate new opportunities for working Texans,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “The Texas Workforce Commission is investing strategically in programs that foster long-term economic prosperity across all regions of our state.” The Professional and Business Services industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in February after adding 6,300 jobs. In addition, Manufacturing added 2,500 jobs over the month while Information added 200. Construction posted the highest annual growth rate of any major industry for the 19th month in a row at 2.7 percent in February. “The addition of more than 121,000 people to the labor force over the year reinforces the need to make sure all Texans can participate in—and benefit from—our evolving economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “The Texas workforce system is addressing the needs of today while anticipating those of tomorrow through initiatives like Texas Intern Network, which connects young Texans with employers.” The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.3 percent in February. It was followed by the San Angelo MSA at 3.5 percent and the Abilene MSA at 3.6 percent. “The foundations of the Texas economy are strong, and our employers and workers are resilient and adaptable,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “It’s encouraging to see robust growth surging across key industries like Construction and Professional and Business Services, signaling that there is ample cause for optimism.” 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 March is scheduled to be released on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT). 

TWC Announces Funding Opportunity for Adult Diploma Workforce Program

April 22, 2026
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is now accepting applications for its Workforce Diploma Pilot Program. This funding opportunity is intended to support programs that help adult learners in Texas obtain a high-school diploma, earn industry-recognized credentials, and develop employability skills. The Workforce Diploma Pilot Program is designed to create new career pathways for adult learners. The program connects adults who have not completed high school with education providers that offer a combination of academic instruction, career training, and supportive coaching. Eligible applicants must be authorized to grant a high school diploma in Texas or partner with an accredited entity that is authorized. Applicants are also required to have at least two years of experience in dropout reengagement services for adult students. This includes experience in academic assessments, proactive coaching, employability skills training, and preparation for industry-recognized credentials. Interested organizations must submit their completed responses by May 5, 2026. The complete request for qualifications (RFQ), including all requirements and submission documents, can be found online at: https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/esbd/3202600137 . Organizations must use this portal to submit their response. All questions regarding this RFQ should be emailed to vendorproposals@twc.texas.gov .
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