ETCOG Wins Achievement Award from National Member Organization for Rural, Set, Go! Workforce Strategy Public Forum Series

East Texas Council of Governments • July 5, 2022

The National Association of Regional Councils (NARC) has awarded the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) an Achievement Award for its workforce strategy public forum series partnered with Workforce Solutions East Texas, entitled Rural, Set, Go!


Rural, Set, Go! is an intentional strategy to engage community leaders, business leaders, and community members in candid conversations about the factors influencing their local workforce and economic development needs.


The forums began in 2021 to address some very basic needs for sustainable growth, including increased access to education, workforce, and economic development resources, the challenges of opportunity deserts which are defined as lack of broadband access, lack of basic services such as transportation, child care resources, training and skills development and access to jobs. Approximately 500 attendees joined the 2022 forum series, which took place weekly from March 22 to June 7 in East Texas rural counties.


“Workforce and economic development needs cannot be fully addressed without ensuring our agencies and staff are fully engaged with these less populated counties. Rural, Set, Go! addresses this challenge and will make all of our investments in the workforce more effective. I am so proud of our team at ETCOG, and Workforce Solutions East Texas, for bringing this series to life and enhancing our services in East Texas,” said ETCOG’s Director of Workforce & Economic Development, Doug Shryock.


ETCOG has been a long-time member of NARC, whose member organizations are composed of multiple local governments that work together to serve American communities – large and small, urban and rural. Eleven projects submitted from regional planning agencies across the nation received Achievement Awards.


The Achievement Awards were presented during an awards ceremony held at the recent NARC 56th Annual Conference & Exhibition held in Columbus, Ohio.

Highlight Video

Request for Applications: High Demand Job Training Grant FY26

By ETCOG & Workforce Solutions East Texas • September 4, 2025
Deadline for applications - September 26, 2025
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You’re Invited: Let’s Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • September 3, 2025
Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) and Texas Workforce Solutions -Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS) invite you to a celebration event on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 9:30 am to noon at the Longview Workforce Solutions Center located at 1905 W. Loop 281, Longview, TX 75604. At WSET, we are deeply committed to fostering an environment that welcomes all abilities in the workforce. National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a powerful reminder of the immense talent and untapped potential that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces. Whether you are an employer seeking to hire individuals with disabilities, an organization championing disability rights, or someone seeking to learn more TWS-VRS we invite you to attend our upcoming event. Our event promises insightful discussions, valuable networking opportunities, stories from participants who are successfully navigating their journey after receiving services through TWS-VRS along with those business partners who have hired them. There will also be resources aimed at helping businesses take significant steps toward creating a workplace that includes all abilities on their team. Let's come together to celebrate our 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). We celebrate the value and talent that all Americans - including people with disabilities – bring to our businesses, organizations, and communities. Join us in the momentous occasion as we celebrate this milestone in our nation’s history.
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From Summer Job to Career Path: Malachi Whedbee’s SEAL Success

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • August 26, 2025
When Malachi Whedbee joined the Summer Earn and Learn (SEAL) program, he saw it as an opportunity to gain experience, learn new skills, and contribute to his community. What he didn’t expect was how much of an impact his dedication would make—both on his future and on the people around him. Through SEAL, Malachi began working full-time at the Upshur Rural Library, clocking in at 8:00 a.m. every morning and working until 5:00 p.m. His days were filled with tasks like completing computer library entries, assisting with various projects, and lending a hand wherever needed. But for Malachi, these duties weren’t just boxes to check—they were chances to prove himself. And prove himself he did. Malachi’s exceptional work ethic showed in everything he did. He was always on time, completed assignments with precision, and eagerly stepped up for additional responsibilities. His positive attitude was contagious, creating a welcoming environment for both staff and patrons. Mrs. King, the library’s supervisor, quickly recognized that Malachi was more than just a temporary hire—he was an asset. Describing him as “outgoing, dependable, and hardworking,” she praised his professionalism and the joy he brought to the workplace. By the end of the program, Malachi’s efforts had done more than meet expectations—they had opened a door. Mrs. King was so impressed that she offered him an interview for a permanent position at the library. With the same enthusiasm and determination he brought to every day on the job, Malachi accepted the opportunity. Malachi’s journey through SEAL is more than a personal achievement—it’s a shining example of how young adults with disabilities can break barriers and build meaningful careers when given the chance. His story is a reminder that talent, dedication, and opportunity are the real building blocks of success.
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