Rural, Set, Go! Employers and Community Members are Invited to our Rural Economic Development Forums
Workforce Solutions East Texas • January 16, 2020
Forums Scheduled for Gilmer, Jacksonville, and Canton
The Workforce Solutions East Texas Board in partnership with the East Texas Council of Governments, local elected officials, and new vendor - Career Team, LLC, will launch its first of a series of Rural Economic Development Forums next week. The Forums, titled Rural, Set, Go! have the objective to seek input from local employers, business, and community members on rural economic and workforce development issues.
“We recognize the value of rural economic development and the role employers play in developing and sustaining the local economy,” said WSET Board Chairman, Robert Haberle. “We ask the local employers, businesses, and community members to please join us to share your expertise and knowledge in developing a skilled workforce for the region.”
Rural, Set, Go! Rural Economic Development Forums are open to the public and will be held at the following dates and locations:
- January 21st in Gilmer, Texas, at the Open Range Restaurant, from 5 PM – 7 PM
- January 23rd in Jacksonville, Texas, at the Jacksonville College Student Activity Center, from 5 PM – 7 PM
- January 28th in Canton, Texas, at the Silver Spur Resort, from 5 PM – 7 PM
The program for the town hall style events will include local employers, chamber of commerce and economic development representatives coming together to discuss rural economic and workforce development issues. WSET staff will share local data on the labor market in each area, and conduct a panel discussion, facilitated by WSET Executive Director, Doug Shryock. Forum attendees will have the opportunity to engage in discussion with subject matter experts providing information on workforce training, child care services, and other useful resources.
“The Workforce Solutions East Texas Board has identified our rural communities as a vital resource for economic growth for the region,” said WSET Executive Director, Doug Shryock. “The Board, together with Career Team, will be promoting these events across the region over the next several months. It is important for us to get close to the local needs of the employer and these town hall meetings will help us achieve this goal.”
“We are proud to be a part of this very important work which will help us to design a service delivery system that will benefit the region and bolster our job training programs,” stated Mary Ann Rojas, Regional Executive Director for Career Team. “We are equally pleased with the help of our partners: Baker Ripley, who manage subsidized child care services, the Texas Workforce Commission, our rural local employers and community leaders.”
Business, education and community partners are encouraged to attend, and seating is limited. For information, or to reserve a seat, contact Kim Stacy at 903-561-8131 or Terrance Mathis at 903-758-1783.
Deadline for applications - September 26, 2025
Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) and Texas Workforce Solutions -Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS) invite you to a celebration event on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 9:30 am to noon at the Longview Workforce Solutions Center located at 1905 W. Loop 281, Longview, TX 75604. At WSET, we are deeply committed to fostering an environment that welcomes all abilities in the workforce. National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a powerful reminder of the immense talent and untapped potential that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces. Whether you are an employer seeking to hire individuals with disabilities, an organization championing disability rights, or someone seeking to learn more TWS-VRS we invite you to attend our upcoming event. Our event promises insightful discussions, valuable networking opportunities, stories from participants who are successfully navigating their journey after receiving services through TWS-VRS along with those business partners who have hired them. There will also be resources aimed at helping businesses take significant steps toward creating a workplace that includes all abilities on their team. Let's come together to celebrate our 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). We celebrate the value and talent that all Americans - including people with disabilities – bring to our businesses, organizations, and communities. Join us in the momentous occasion as we celebrate this milestone in our nation’s history.
When Malachi Whedbee joined the Summer Earn and Learn (SEAL) program, he saw it as an opportunity to gain experience, learn new skills, and contribute to his community. What he didn’t expect was how much of an impact his dedication would make—both on his future and on the people around him. Through SEAL, Malachi began working full-time at the Upshur Rural Library, clocking in at 8:00 a.m. every morning and working until 5:00 p.m. His days were filled with tasks like completing computer library entries, assisting with various projects, and lending a hand wherever needed. But for Malachi, these duties weren’t just boxes to check—they were chances to prove himself. And prove himself he did. Malachi’s exceptional work ethic showed in everything he did. He was always on time, completed assignments with precision, and eagerly stepped up for additional responsibilities. His positive attitude was contagious, creating a welcoming environment for both staff and patrons. Mrs. King, the library’s supervisor, quickly recognized that Malachi was more than just a temporary hire—he was an asset. Describing him as “outgoing, dependable, and hardworking,” she praised his professionalism and the joy he brought to the workplace. By the end of the program, Malachi’s efforts had done more than meet expectations—they had opened a door. Mrs. King was so impressed that she offered him an interview for a permanent position at the library. With the same enthusiasm and determination he brought to every day on the job, Malachi accepted the opportunity. Malachi’s journey through SEAL is more than a personal achievement—it’s a shining example of how young adults with disabilities can break barriers and build meaningful careers when given the chance. His story is a reminder that talent, dedication, and opportunity are the real building blocks of success.
