East Texas Celebrates the 79th Anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Texas Workforce Commission • November 20, 2024

On October 29, 2024, East Texas proudly celebrated the 79th Anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) with the theme “Good Jobs for All.” The event, hosted at the Ornelas Academic Amphitheater at the UT Tyler Health Science Center, brought together a diverse group of employers, job seekers, community organizations, and families to honor the contributions of workers with disabilities and promote inclusive employment practices.


Organized by Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) in partnership with Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS), the University of Texas at Tyler, and UT Health Tyler, the celebration highlighted efforts to create pathways to meaningful employment for all individuals. Attendees included Smith County Commissioner John Moore, local businesses, community organizations, and residents committed to fostering an inclusive workforce.

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Event Highlights

The program opened with remarks by Doug Shryock, Executive Director of Workforce and Economic Development for the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG), and Claude Figueroa, Chairman of the ETCOG Board. Both emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.


The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Meg Reitmeyer, who shared her inspiring journey of living with Myasthenia Gravis, a chronic autoimmune condition. Her story of resilience and adaptability resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing the value of embracing diversity in the workforce.


Showcasing Innovative Programs

A standout presentation was given by Ms. DJ Warren of Tyler Independent School District (TISD) on Project SEARCH, a business-led model designed to immerse students with disabilities in the workplace. This collaborative effort, supported by TWS-VRS, Christus Trinity Mother Frances Health System, TISD, Chapel Hill Independent School District (CHISD), Winning Edge Employment Services, and the Andrews Center, provides students with internships that prepare them for employment through hands-on experience and skill development.


Additionally, the event spotlighted the Summer Earn and Learn (SEAL) program, a partnership between TWS-VRS and local workforce boards. This program offers students with disabilities summer employment opportunities, equipping them with essential job skills and practical work experience to enhance their professional success.

Recognizing Community Partners

The event also celebrated the contributions of key community partners, including the East Texas Human Needs Network, East Texas Lighthouse for the Blind, and Goodwill Industries of East Texas. These organizations play an integral role in fostering a supportive ecosystem for job seekers and employers alike.


Updates were shared on the Texas Hirability Campaign, an initiative to increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, along with an overview of Vocational Rehabilitation Services by Dennis Kutach, Regional Director for TWS-VRS.


A Unified Celebration

The celebration served as a powerful reminder of the progress made in supporting workers with disabilities and the work that remains to be done. Employers and employees are encouraged to continue promoting the messages of National Disability Employment Awareness Month year-round. For more information, visit www.dol.gov/NDEAM.

August 4th Regionwide Job Fair Employers List

July 28, 2026
Tuesday, August 4 | Athens, Longview, Marshall, Palestine, and Tyler

Texas Job Market Grows by More Than 177,000 Positions Over the Year

July 20, 2026
Texas added 43,400 nonfarm jobs in June to reach a total of 14,469,600 positions. Over the year, the state added 177,900 jobs for an annual growth rate of 1.2 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.9 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,904,900 after adding 3,400 people over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 29,700 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.4 percent. “Texas’ continued job growth is a testament to the strength of our employers and robust workforce development system,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “The addition of more than 177,000 jobs over the year reinforces Texas’ reputation among employers as the best place to start and grow a business.” The Professional and Business Services industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in June after adding 25,500 jobs. Leisure and Hospitality added 10,300 jobs over the month while Trade, Transportation, and Utilities added 6,400. “The growth of the Texas labor market highlights the incredible talent and dedication of our state’s workforce,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “The Texas Workforce Commission is committed to ensuring every Texan has the support they need to thrive, whether through training opportunities to gain new skills or specialized programs that help our foster youth transition into successful careers.” The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.6 percent in June. It was followed by the San Angelo MSA at 3.9 percent and the Abilene MSA at 4.0 percent. “With an annual growth rate of 1.2 percent, Texas continues to outpace the national average and demonstrate economic resilience,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “Both job seekers and employers can seek customized career services and recruitment assistance by visiting our TWC website or their local Workforce Solutions office.” 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 July is scheduled to be released on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).

Building Connections, Strengthening Child Care

July 20, 2026
Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services is proud to partner with the Panola County Chamber of Commerce to support child care leaders across the region. Through this partnership, the Chamber provides a welcoming meeting space for Directors Connect training designed to help early learning program owners and directors connect, learn, and grow together. The partnership was made possible through the support of Keri Perot-Vance, Executive Director of the Panola County Chamber of Commerce, whose commitment to community collaboration helped create a space where child care leaders can come together to share ideas, discuss challenges, and strengthen their leadership skills. The partnership began in 2025 in response to daycare owners expressing a need for accessible training opportunities. Recognizing this need, Panola County Chamber of Commerce graciously offered to host the Directors Connect training in its beautiful historic building. This collaboration provides child care professionals with the opportunity to earn professional development hours required to remain in compliance with Child Care Regulation and Texas Rising Star. Tonia Crawford and Aerial Jones, Business Industry Specialists for Child Care Services and facilitators of Directors Connect, say the program has evolved into so much more than a training opportunity. It has become a space for meaningful conversations, professional connections, and shared solutions. Through these gatherings, directors are strengthening their businesses, growing as leaders, and ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided to children and families throughout East Texas. Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services is grateful for the Panola County Chamber of Commerce's ongoing support and looks forward to continuing this impactful partnership for years to come. Together, we are investing in stronger leaders, stronger child care programs, and stronger communities.
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