Emily Shields, from Client to Counselor

September 23, 2025

Emily Shields had a good job as an academic advisor, but something was missing. She longed for work that truly changed lives.


“I wanted to do true counseling,” Emily recalls. “I wanted to help people discover their goals, not just choose courses. I wasn’t happy, and I knew I needed something more.”


That “something more” came from her counselor at Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR) at Workforce Solutions East Texas, who saw potential she hadn’t yet recognized. “He told me, ‘You have the right credentials to be a VR counselor.’ He encouraged me to send my transcripts to the state and explained the classes I needed to take to move forward. That conversation opened a door I hadn’t considered before.”


Emily acted on that advice, completing the necessary courses to become eligible for a VR counselor position. Along the way, challenges arose—like technical issues with her Work In Texas account—but each obstacle led to a new connection and opportunity.


When she reached out for help, she met Debra Holcomb, an Employment Service Representative, who encouraged her and guided her toward growth opportunities.


“She told me she thought I would be perfect for a VR role and encouraged me to go for it,” Emily says. Debra also suggested she attend the Job Connection Workshop, where Emily met Shantel Jackson, who helped her gain confidence, improve her resume, and prepare for interviews. Emily shares. “Shantel helped calm me, gave me strategies for interviews, and helped me tweak my resume so it spoke directly to the role I wanted. I walked away feeling confident and prepared.”


Her persistence paid off—Emily was offered a position as a VR counselor. “I’m working in my dream career. I’m so happy to be a VR counselor,” she says proudly. Now, she finds fulfillment helping others as she was helped. One client’s gratitude reminded her why she chose this path. Emily reflects, “I was having a tough week, and then I worked with a client who was getting hearing aids, just like me. At the end of her meeting, she hugged me and thanked me. In that moment, I thought—oh yeah, everything is totally worth this moment.”


For Emily, counseling is about seeing the whole person, not just their disability. “Even something like hearing loss can impact you mentally. Behind every disability is a person with feelings, goals, and opinions. As a counselor, I have the privilege of helping them see what’s possible.” For Emily, that privilege is personal. She once stood where many of her clients stand today, unsure of the next step, but willing to reach out for help. Her journey shows the power of believing in yourself—and letting others believe in you.


Emily urges others to use local workforce resources: “Don’t overlook your local workforce office. People think it’s just for unemployment and it’s not. There are so many resources and programs to help you get where you want to go in your career, so take advantage of them.”


Today, Emily isn’t just working a job—she’s living her dream, helping others discover their own. And for her, that’s what makes it all worthwhile.

Fueled by Determination: Owen Shreve’s Road to Success with TSTC and Workforce Solutions

September 23, 2025
When Owen Shreve moved from Bremerton, Washington, to Elysian Fields, Texas, he was ready for a new beginning. He had always loved working with his hands, but this time he wanted to turn that passion into a real career. That’s when he discovered Texas State Technical College’s (TSTC) Diesel Equipment Technology program in Marshall — and took the leap. “I’ve always enjoyed fixing things,” Owen said. “When I found out TSTC had an off-highway program, I thought, ‘It’s time to do something with my life.’” TSTC gave Owen the strong foundation he needed, but he knew that hands-on experience would take him further. That search led him to Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Adult program. With their support, he began a work experience internship with Thee Road Service, a local truck repair company. Owen’s determination quickly shined. In June 2025, he advanced into on-the-job training with the same company, gaining even more real-world skills. Just a month later, on July 27, 2025, his hard work was recognized with a pay raise, going from $15 to $20 per hour — a powerful sign that his dedication, hard work, and commitment were paving the way to success. “It’s really beneficial because I’m getting practical knowledge here (at TSTC), which ties directly into the field knowledge I get out there,” Owen said. “There hasn’t been a day I’ve walked away without learning something.” Leticia Hollins, Owen’s work-based learning coordinator at WSET, has seen his growth firsthand. “As he has progressed in his academic journey, his confidence and competence in handling complex tasks have noticeably increased,” Hollins said. “Professionally, Owen has taken on more responsibilities and consistently met challenges with determination and maturity.” Owen plans to graduate in May 2026 with his Associate of Applied Science degree in Diesel Equipment Technology. For him, the journey has been more than education — it has been transformation. “Being a student is absolutely rewarding because without this program I wouldn’t be where I’m at right now,” Owen said. “It’s opened so many doors for me already.” With the support of TSTC, Workforce Solutions East Texas, and the WIOA program, Owen has turned a lifelong passion into a promising career. What began as a leap of faith in moving to Texas has become a story of perseverance, opportunity, and growth. His journey proves that when determination meets the right support system, doors open, dreams take shape, and futures are built. For Owen, the road ahead is wide open — and he’s driving full speed toward success.
Man in blue blazer smiles, seated at a table with a nameplate (

Thank You, Claude Figueroa, for Your Leadership

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • September 22, 2025
Workforce Solutions East Texas extends its sincere gratitude to long-term board member Claude Figueroa for his dedicated service and leadership. Claude has been a member of the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board since 2012 and recently completed his fourth and final year as chairman. Before serving as chair, he guided the board as vice-chair for four years. Though he is stepping down from leadership, Claude will continue to share his knowledge and experience as a private sector business member of the board. His steady commitment has helped strengthen workforce development efforts across our region, ensuring East Texas businesses and job seekers are supported with the tools they need to succeed. Doug Shryock, Executive Director of Workforce Solutions East Texas, noted one of Claude’s lasting contributions: “One of the most significant accomplishments during Claude’s tenure was securing long-term, professional facilities for both the Longview and Tyler Workforce Centers. These centers will serve East Texas participants well for decades to come. While it was a team effort, Claude was engaged throughout the process and quietly opened many doors that helped make it possible.”  The Workforce Solutions East Texas Board is a volunteer body appointed by the Chief Elected Officials of the region. With a majority of members representing the private sector, along with labor, education, and community organizations, the board plays a key role in shaping workforce policy. We are proud to serve the 14 counties of Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood as one of 28 local Workforce Solutions Boards across Texas. Together, we provide no-cost recruitment and employment services that help connect employers with skilled workers and support job seekers in reaching their career goals. Claude’s years of leadership reflect the spirit of service and community that drive our mission forward. We are grateful for his past and ongoing contributions to East Texas.

Texas Adds 17,600 Jobs as Labor Force Grows in August

September 22, 2025
Texas had 14,347,700 total nonfarm jobs after adding 17,600 positions over the month in August. Over the year, the state added 195,600 jobs for an annual nonfarm growth rate of 1.4 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.5 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,857,300 after adding 8,600 people over the month and reaching a new record high level for the series. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 169,500 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.1 percent. “Texas' expanding labor force is a testament to our state's appeal, but it also means we have a responsibility to ensure everyone has access to the education, training, and support services they need to succeed,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “TWC is dedicated to removing barriers to employment and creating pathways to opportunity for all Texans.” The Leisure and Hospitality industry had the largest over-the-month increase in August after adding 10,900 jobs. Private Education and Health Services added 5,200 jobs over the month while Construction added 1,100. In addition, the Construction industry grew by 2.2 percent over the year in Texas and outperformed the industry’s growth rate nationally by 1.5 percentage points. “The addition of more than 17,000 jobs in August highlights Texas’ reputation as the best state for doing business,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “TWC resources such as Skills Development grants, apprenticeships, and employer tax credits are empowering businesses to create opportunities locally and compete globally.” Among metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in Texas, the Amarillo, Midland, and San Angelo MSAs had the lowest unemployment rates. Each of the three MSAs registered a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.6 percent in August. 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, October 17, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).
Show More