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.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Share

Mail

Crowns & Courage: How One Mother Built a Stronger Future Through the WIOA Youth Program

December 16, 2025

When Princess Tyeskie first walked into Workforce Solutions East Texas, she carried a deep determination to build a better life for herself and her children. As a single mother with experience in fast food and retail, she was ready for something more—something stable, meaningful, and aligned with the future she dreamed of. Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Program, Princess was placed at Dr. Willis Longview Footcare Clinic. It was a new environment, but she stepped into it with courage and purpose. Her professionalism, reliability, and warm spirit quickly stood out, and she soon became a trusted part of the team. By the end of her work experience, Princess had gained more than new skills—she had earned a direct hire with the clinic as a Medical Administrative Assistant. It was a life-changing moment that reflected her determination and the power of the opportunities WIOA provides. When asked about her experience, Princess shared: “Through the Workforce Solutions East Texas Youth Program, I was given the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the medical field—the area I aspire to specialize in.” During her Work Experience at Dr. Willis Longview Footcare Clinic, Princess quickly demonstrated the professionalism, compassion, and determination that WSET staff always knew she had. She simply needed the opportunity to show it. The WIOA Work Experience program opened that door. “My dedication and ability to adapt to the clinic’s environment led to me being directly hired after completing my work experience. This achievement reflects my commitment, my work ethic, and my passion for providing quality medical care,” Princess states. Today, Princess stands in a career she once only dreamed about—one that brings stability, pride, and a renewed sense of purpose. Her success is more than a job; it’s a foundation for her children to look up to and build upon. More than that, it’s an invitation—an invitation for others to dream bigger, take the first step, and trust that transformation begins with opportunity. Princess’s journey serves as a reminder that even when life feels heavy, adjusting your crown and moving forward can lead to powerful new beginnings.

Carthage Pop-Up Job and Resource Fair Connects Residents to Opportunity

December 16, 2025

Workforce Solutions East Texas recently hosted a Pop-Up Job and Resource Fair in Carthage, creating a one-stop shop for local residents seeking employment opportunities and support services. The event welcomed 32 job seekers, connected them with 4 local employers, and provided access to 3 community resource partners—all working together to help ease the career journey for Panola County residents. The goal of the fair was simple but impactful: bring direct assistance, meaningful connections, and additional support together in one place. Job seekers had the opportunity to speak directly with employers, explore available jobs, and connect with community organizations offering resources that can help remove barriers to employment. A highlight of the event was the introduction of Workforce Solutions East Texas’ new Mobile Career Center. The mobile unit is equipped with computers and employment resources and will be available every Wednesday at the Panola County Chamber of Commerce, giving residents continued access to services without needing to travel to a physical office. We were proud to co-partner on this event with our friends at the Panola County Chamber of Commerce, whose continued support of workforce development plays a vital role in strengthening the local community. Their commitment to connecting people with opportunity aligns closely with the mission of Workforce Solutions East Texas. Events like the Carthage Pop-Up Job and Resource Fair demonstrate the power of collaboration and community-focused solutions, helping residents take the next step toward meaningful employment and long-term success.