Goodwill Industries Recognized at TWC Conference as Local Employer of Excellence

Workforce Solutions East Texas, Texas Workforce Commission • December 6, 2023

This year, several East Texas Workforce Board and staff members represented Workforce Solutions of East Texas at the annual Texas Workforce Commission Conference in Houston. The conference presented an opportunity to hear from economic development and workforce specialists about new grants, program updates, and new opportunities for training and development within our workforce industry. 


Gene Keenon, Vice-Chair of the East Texas Workforce Board, expressed his commitment to our region by representing East Texas at the conference.


"I'm proud to represent 14 East Texas counties at the Texas Workforce Commission Conference in Houston," said Keenon. "So many great topics affecting today's workforce. Panelists from Fortune 100 companies and education systems were in attendance."


In addition to workshop sessions, TWC, and local workforce boards recognize employers across Texas for excellence and innovation. Local Workforce Development Boards nominate employers whose partnership exemplifies the economic success that can be achieved through private-sector collaboration with the public sector. Through a highly competitive scoring system, a panel of TWC judges selects Employers of the Year who embody TWC’s mission to promote and support a workforce system that creates value and offers employers, individuals, and communities the opportunity to achieve and sustain economic prosperity.


Goodwill Industries of East Texas Inc. was awarded by TWC as the Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) Board Local Employer of Excellence. Goodwill Industries is known for having a longstanding alliance serving persons with disabilities and unemployed and underemployed workers. They are a proven community partner and are always present when called upon to assist. They have partnered with WSET in multiple ways, participating in hiring events, and are a heavily involved participant in our Work Experience Programs and the GoodTech Academy Registered Apprenticeship program.


"We were honored to see Goodwill Industries of East Texas recognized as our East Texas Local Employer of Excellence at TWC’s 26th annual conference," said Workforce Executive Director Doug Shryock. "Goodwill is a strong and consistent partner, delivering various quality programs to our participants across the region. It was rewarding to see them receive well-earned appreciation for their work. We look forward to a continuing and mutually beneficial relationship with Goodwill for many years."


Along with Goodwill Industries, several East Texas employers were nominated for their involvement in the workforce. These companies represent the diversity of our local economy, contributing uniquely to our region's workforce success.


East Texas Nominees:

Large Employer of the Year: Eastman Chemical, Longview

Small Employer of the Year: Motor City Fasteners, Longview

Veteran-Friendly Employer of the Year: Camp V, Tyler

HireAbility Employer of the Year: Elijah’s Retreat, Jacksonville

Elijah's Retreat Nominated for the TWC HireAbility Employer of the Year

October 16, 2025
A Sanctuary of Opportunity and Inclusion

Workforce Solutions East Texas Supports Local Workers Through Rapid Response Partnership

October 16, 2025
When a local employer recently faced a layoff, Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) stepped in to provide immediate assistance through its Rapid Response program — a coordinated effort designed to support both employers and affected employees during times of transition. Upon notification of the layoff, WSET’s Business Services team quickly initiated a Rapid Response orientation. These orientations are designed to inform employees of their rights, available resources, and reemployment options. Staff guide participants through services such as unemployment insurance, job search assistance, training opportunities, and support programs available through Workforce Solutions East Texas and its partners. In collaboration with the employer, WSET also organized a private job fair exclusively for the impacted workers, giving them an opportunity to connect directly with local employers eager to hire skilled talent. The event brought together 13 employers and 48 job seekers, facilitating meaningful conversations and helping workers transition smoothly into new employment opportunities. “Rapid Response is about providing timely, compassionate, and practical support to both employers and employees,” said a representative from Workforce Solutions East Texas. “Our goal is to minimize the stress of job loss and help workers reenter the workforce as quickly as possible.” Rapid Response services are available at no cost to East Texas employers who need assistance communicating with their staff during layoffs or closures. Workforce Solutions East Texas is committed to helping businesses navigate workforce challenges while ensuring their employees have the tools and resources needed to move forward successfully. 

Workforce Solutions East Texas Inspires Local Students at Career Exploration Event

October 16, 2025
Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) staff recently attended the Athens Career Exploration event to educate high school seniors about exciting career paths and opportunities within workforce development. The event welcomed students from Athens ISD as well as neighboring districts — Malakoff, Frankston, and La Poynor ISDs — bringing together an estimated 200–250 seniors eager to learn about their future career options. Students began the day by hearing from a panel of employers representing a variety of industries, who shared valuable insights and professional expertise. Following the panel, attendees had the chance to network with more than 25 local employers, engaging in one-on-one conversations about the skills, education, and experiences needed to enter different fields. Representing Workforce Solutions East Texas, staff members shared what a “day in the life” looks like in workforce development — from helping job seekers and employers connect, to supporting training and education programs that strengthen the East Texas economy. Students also learned about education requirements, job duties, and salary ranges within the workforce development industry. Emely Amador, Outreach Specialist with Workforce Solutions East Texas, reflected on the event saying: “We had such a good time at the Athens Career Expo! The students had wonderful questions and had a lot of interest in the opportunities in Henderson County and how Workforce Solutions East Texas fits into it. We hope to continue to outreach the community with more events like this in the future.” Events like this one demonstrate the importance of early career exploration and community partnerships in building a strong local workforce. Workforce Solutions East Texas is proud to help students discover their potential and learn how their future careers can contribute to the growth of our region. 
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