Spotlight on Jobs - April 29, 2019

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 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).