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.

View more

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.

Texas Adds More than 46,000 Jobs in March

May 1, 2026
This is a subtitle for your new post

Resilient Texas Job Market Shows Industry-Specific Growth as Unemployment Remains Stable

April 22, 2026
The total number of nonfarm jobs in Texas registered at 14,354,600 after decreasing by 8,500 positions in February. Over the year, the state added 73,800 jobs for an annual nonfarm growth rate of 0.5 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.4 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,941,800 after decreasing by 13,400 over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 121,200 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas remained stable at 4.3 percent. “Texas’ over-the-year growth trajectory remains strong because we have cultivated a pro-business climate that helps employers grow and generate new opportunities for working Texans,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “The Texas Workforce Commission is investing strategically in programs that foster long-term economic prosperity across all regions of our state.” The Professional and Business Services industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in February after adding 6,300 jobs. In addition, Manufacturing added 2,500 jobs over the month while Information added 200. Construction posted the highest annual growth rate of any major industry for the 19th month in a row at 2.7 percent in February. “The addition of more than 121,000 people to the labor force over the year reinforces the need to make sure all Texans can participate in—and benefit from—our evolving economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “The Texas workforce system is addressing the needs of today while anticipating those of tomorrow through initiatives like Texas Intern Network, which connects young Texans with employers.” The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.3 percent in February. It was followed by the San Angelo MSA at 3.5 percent and the Abilene MSA at 3.6 percent. “The foundations of the Texas economy are strong, and our employers and workers are resilient and adaptable,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “It’s encouraging to see robust growth surging across key industries like Construction and Professional and Business Services, signaling that there is ample cause for optimism.” 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 March is scheduled to be released on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT). 

TWC Announces Funding Opportunity for Adult Diploma Workforce Program

April 22, 2026
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is now accepting applications for its Workforce Diploma Pilot Program. This funding opportunity is intended to support programs that help adult learners in Texas obtain a high-school diploma, earn industry-recognized credentials, and develop employability skills. The Workforce Diploma Pilot Program is designed to create new career pathways for adult learners. The program connects adults who have not completed high school with education providers that offer a combination of academic instruction, career training, and supportive coaching. Eligible applicants must be authorized to grant a high school diploma in Texas or partner with an accredited entity that is authorized. Applicants are also required to have at least two years of experience in dropout reengagement services for adult students. This includes experience in academic assessments, proactive coaching, employability skills training, and preparation for industry-recognized credentials. Interested organizations must submit their completed responses by May 5, 2026. The complete request for qualifications (RFQ), including all requirements and submission documents, can be found online at: https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/esbd/3202600137 . Organizations must use this portal to submit their response. All questions regarding this RFQ should be emailed to vendorproposals@twc.texas.gov .
Show More