News Release: Hiring Red, White & You! Statewide Veterans Hiring Fair to Take Place November 7
Workforce Solutions East Texas • October 31, 2019
East Texas Hiring Event to be Held in Longview
For the eighth year, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), in partnership with 28 local workforce development boards and the Texas Veterans Commission, will host veterans hiring fairs in 31 cities throughout Texas on Thursday, Nov. 7. TWC’s eighth annual Hiring Red, White & You! statewide hiring fair is a joint initiative supported by the Office of the Governor, the Texas Medical Center (TMC) and the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) to connect veterans and their spouses in Texas with employers who are seeking the exceptional skills of veterans and their spouses. Workforce Solutions East Texas will host the local hiring event in Longview at Maude Cobb Activity Center located at 100 Grand Blvd. from 9 AM – 1 PM. The event is veteran focused, but open to the public to attend.
“We’ve got 90 employers signed up who recognize employing veterans creates a dedicated workforce with employees who know how to lead, build teams, and accept and meet challenges – and the list is growing daily,” said Workforce Solutions East Texas director, Doug Shryock. “It is our privilege to host an event giving back to our veterans, and we are honored to have State Representative Jay Dean and Texas Workforce Commission’s Civil Rights Division Director, Bryan Snoddy, as guest speakers at our opening ceremony.”
“On behalf of the state of Texas, I extend my deepest gratitude to all those who have worn and still wear the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Today and every day, we must honor and serve veterans who have defended our freedom,” said Gov. Greg Abbott. “Over the last eight years, Hiring, Red, White & You! has made enormous strides in connecting our remarkable veterans with employment ensuring they achieve the same stability and peace of mind enjoyed by those they have fought so hard to protect. I encourage employers and veterans in Texas to attend a Hiring, Red, White & You! event this Nov. 7.”
The multi-city event is designed to assist veterans, service members and their spouses as they seek their next career opportunity. Employers participate at no cost and are encouraged to contact their local Workforce Solutions Office for more information. Over the past seven years, Hiring Red, White & You! has connected more than 84,153 job seekers, including 35,485 Veterans and 48,668 spouses, to 14,420 employers and over 2,027 same-day hires.
“Veterans bring experience, skills and leadership abilities that will strengthen any Texas business,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “Our veterans deserve the opportunity to experience the same pride and purpose they had while serving. I thank our partners, our 28 local workforce development boards and TVC for their valuable partnership in these events.”
The Texas Veterans Commission is preparing veterans for these hiring fairs by assisting them with applications and résumés, interviewing techniques, and one-on-one counseling services.
“Our brave and courageous veterans risked everything for our country, they deserve the opportunity to experience the pride they felt while serving when they return home,” said Texas Veterans Commission Chairman Eliseo “Al” Cantu, Jr. “Hiring Red, White and You! events are essential to ensuring our veterans have the chances they deserve.”
The average national unemployment rate for nine months in 2019 for all veterans, is 3.0 percent1. In contrast, according to the Employment Situation of Veterans 2018 Report, for those veterans who served in the military since September 2001, the unemployment rate is higher at 3.8 percent2. There are nearly 1.6 million3
total veterans throughout Texas, which is the 2nd highest state population of veterans in the country.
“Our nation’s heroes are skilled, determined and highly sought-after workers,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor, Julian Alvarez. “We applaud everyone participating in this year’s Hiring Red White and You! events and those who make a point to hire veterans all year long. You’re not only employing a hero but you’re building a future for their families and communities.”
Employers who hire veterans may be eligible for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, which allows employers to receive up to $9,600 on federal business income or payroll tax benefits when they hire from certain qualified groups of veterans.
“Our military men and women exhibit valuable skills sets, including the ability to learn quickly on the job and unrivaled leadership experience that make them an excellent employee and team member, said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “I encourage our Texas employers to participate in the Hiring Red, White, & You! statewide hiring fair in order to meet, hire and work first-hand with our nation’s heroes. Let’s honor our Texas veterans by creating new opportunities for them to contribute to our great state after their service in uniform.”
Information on how employers and job seekers can participate in Hiring Red, White & You! hiring fairs can be found at www.texasworkforce.org/hrwy. Please note that some job fair locations may have changed since last year. For information on all veteran workforce services available in Texas, visit www.texasworkforce.org/veterans.
1. Bureau of Labor Statistics: 2018 Employment Situation of Veterans, veterans 18 and over, not seasonally adjusted. http://www.bls.gov/news.release/vet.nr0.htm
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics: 2018 Employment Situation of Veterans, Gulf War-era II veterans, not seasonally adjusted. http://www.bls.gov/news.release/vet.nr0.htm
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics: 2018 Employment Situation of Veterans, veterans 18 and over, not seasonally adjusted. http://www.bls.gov/news.release/vet.nr0.htm
Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) and Texas Workforce Solutions–Vocational Rehabilitation Services invite you to join us in celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. The event will be held at the Workforce Solutions East Texas Center in Tyler, located at 1421 S. Beckham Avenue, Tyler, TX. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” recognizes the contributions, skills, and perspectives that people with disabilities bring to East Texas workplaces and communities. At Workforce Solutions East Texas, we are committed to helping create workplaces where people of all abilities can succeed. NDEAM is an opportunity for employers, community partners, job seekers, and advocates to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate the value of an inclusive workforce. Attendees can expect meaningful conversations, networking opportunities, participant success stories, and resources for employers interested in building teams that include and support people of all abilities. Whether you are an employer seeking talented candidates, a community organization supporting individuals with disabilities, or someone interested in learning more about available services through Texas Workforce Solutions–Vocational Rehabilitation Services, we invite you to attend. Join us as we celebrate the value and talent that people with disabilities bring to businesses, organizations, and communities across East Texas.
At just 24 years old, Ashlee Stevenson already knows the meaning of perseverance. As a mother of three young children, Ashlee’s greatest motivation has always been creating a better future for her family. While balancing the responsibilities of motherhood, she began searching for a path that would allow her to build a meaningful career in healthcare and provide greater opportunities for her children. Ashlee’s journey began when she discovered the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Program through an online search. She was looking for more than just assistance with school; she needed support that would help remove the barriers standing between her and her goals. Through WIOA, she found the encouragement, resources, and guidance she needed to take the next step toward her dream of working in the healthcare field. “I wanted to go back to school to get a certification or degree in healthcare to get my foot in the door,” Ashlee shared. “I eventually would like to get into nursing school, but having a CMA or something to help me start is my goal. I wanted to make a future for my babies.” Soon after enrolling in the program, Ashlee accepted a Work Experience placement as an HR Administrative Assistant. Through the Work Experience (WEX) program, Ashlee gained valuable hands-on experience in an administrative role within a healthcare setting. Her responsibilities included scanning and uploading documents, organizing records, printing materials, and assisting with employee onboarding. The experience helped her develop skills that directly connect to her future career goals. “Healthcare does a lot of the same type of administrative duties,” Ashlee explained. “The interaction with employees also helped me practice for future clients.” Although Ashlee was determined to succeed, the journey was not without challenges. Balancing work, school goals, and her children's needs required dedication and resilience. There were times when unexpected situations, such as her children becoming ill, made her worry about whether she could continue. However, with the support of her placement site and Workforce Solutions East Texas, Ashlee found the encouragement she needed to keep moving forward. “They were really patient with me,” she said. “My Career Navigator, Antavia, was really sweet. She would come up to the job and talk to me and give me advice.” One of Ashlee’s proudest accomplishments was completing her WEX hours despite the obstacles she faced. Rather than allowing challenges to become setbacks, she chose to stay committed to her goals. “I’m proud of completing my hours and not quitting and letting myself give up because of the obstacles,” Ashlee shared. A key part of Ashlee’s success was the support she received from her Career Navigator. From helping her prepare for interviews to providing encouragement during difficult moments, Antavia became a source of motivation and stability throughout Ashlee’s journey. When Ashlee needed professional attire for an interview, Antavia and her co-workers at Workforce Solutions East Texas found options for her professional journey, as well as a few for her personal use. “I didn’t have the proper clothes for the interview, and they found some office clothes to give me,” Ashlee said. “I’m really thankful for that because I had pregnancies back-to-back and didn’t really have much, so that was great.” Beyond practical assistance, Ashlee valued the personal encouragement and compassion she received. During challenging times, Antavia reminded her of her purpose and encouraged her to continue pursuing her goals. “She would have conversations with me and remind me of my why for being in the program,” Ashlee shared. “I don’t really have the support system that I need, and she was there to uplift me during difficult times.” Ashlee also expressed that one of the most meaningful moments of her experience was when Antavia prayed with her, offering encouragement that she will carry with her beyond the program. Today, Ashlee has successfully completed her Work Experience placement and is continuing to move forward toward her healthcare career goals. She plans to pursue her Medical Assistant certification as the next step toward eventually entering nursing school and creating the future she envisions for her children. Through her experience, Ashlee gained more than workplace skills...she gained confidence, resilience, and the belief that she can overcome challenges. “My biggest lesson was to not give up and to have patience,” Ashlee said. “The WIOA program taught me a lot.” For others considering participating in the Work Experience program, Ashlee offers this encouragement: “Why not try? It’s worth the chance. The only thing holding you back is you hesitating.” Ashlee’s story is a reminder that with determination, support, and the courage to take the first step, barriers can become stepping stones toward a brighter future. Throughout it all, Ashlee has remained grateful for having a team dedicated to her success. Workforce Solutions East Texas is proud to have supported Ashlee on her journey and celebrates her commitment, perseverance, and continued pursuit of success.
Life has a way of changing course when we least expect it. For Shyanne Foil, a career built in the loan and real estate industry came to an abrupt halt when the housing market crashed. Determined to keep moving forward, she transitioned into a position at Sanderson Farms, only to face another life-changing obstacle when major surgery left her unable to continue in such a physically demanding role. To overcome financial hardship from the loss of her job, Shyanne turned to Health and Human Services for assistance and qualified for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Through TANF, she was introduced to the CHOICES Program at Workforce Solutions East Texas—a decision that would ultimately change the direction of her life. "When I enrolled, my advisor Jessica was so amazing," Shyanne recalled. "She asked about my life outside of work and took the time to understand my health concerns and my responsibilities caring for my son, who also has medical needs. Other employers found reasons to dismiss my application because of those challenges. Jessica reminded me that I could still do other things and worked hard to support me every step of the way." Committed to creating a brighter future, Shyanne embraced every opportunity the program offered. She completed a Microsoft Excel class, participated in the Job Connection workshop, and remained engaged throughout the process. One of the most impactful moments came during a resume review with the Job Connection team. "I had a lot of certifications but was still struggling to find work," she said. "After they reviewed my resume, I realized I had support. Their encouragement lifted me up. There are jobs made for me to do." During that process, Workforce staff members Gabby and Korey encouraged Shyanne to apply for an opening at Workforce Solutions East Texas. Believing in the skills she had developed over her career, she took the leap. On July 6, 2026, Shyanne began her new role as a WIOA Career Navigator. "It was very validating to receive the job offer," she shared. "After so much rejection, it meant everything to finally have someone believe in me. It felt so validating to finally be seen and valued." Today, Shyanne has come full circle. The same organization that helped her rebuild her confidence is now the place where she helps others find hope and opportunity in their own employment journeys. Reflecting on her experience, she offers encouragement to anyone considering the CHOICES Program: "It can feel like an inconvenience in the beginning to qualify, but you have no idea what will come out in the end. Just keep showing up consistently, and the people at Workforce will show up for you." Shyanne now encourages others with the personal mantra that carried her through her journey: "I am doing enough, but I am worth more effort." She hopes her story inspires others facing similar challenges to recognize their value, believe in their potential, and never settle for less than they deserve. With perseverance and the right support, opportunities can become life-changing realities. Shyanne is more than a Workforce Solutions East Texas employee...she is living proof of the life-changing impact of perseverance, opportunity, and support. Having once walked through the doors seeking a new beginning, she now welcomes others with the same encouragement that helped transform her own future. Her journey is a powerful reminder that with determination, the right resources, and people who believe in your potential, today's challenges can become tomorrow's greatest success story.
