Workforce Solutions East Texas Announces Second Year of Workforce Strategy Public Forums for Local Leaders in Rural Counties

Workforce Solutions East Texas • March 21, 2022

Rural, Set, Go: Boost! Forums to be Held March 22 – May 31

Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET), in partnership with the East Texas Council of Governments, and local elected officials, is proud to announce the second annual rural economic development forum series titled Rural, Set, Go: Boost! The forums will take place weekly, March through May, in East Texas rural counties. Events are open to local community and business leaders, employers, school districts, secondary schools, economic development corporations, and chambers.


Rural, Set, Go: Boost! is an intentional strategy to engage community leaders, business leaders, and community members in candid conversations about the factors that influence their local workforce and economic development needs. At the Texas Workforce Commission Conference held in November, WSET was awarded a $200,000 grant for future excellence in innovation to expand the event series. WSET will utilize input from the 2021 event series in the upcoming forums to connect participants with program information, including work-based learning, entrepreneurial training, and child care services, to improve the economic impact and develop incumbent workers in the community.

 

"The Rural, Set, Go initiative is a collaborative effort that will help identify workforce issues by individual counties in the East Texas region. We at Workforce Solutions East Texas are 'rolling up our sleeves' to address the issues and deliver solutions," said Workforce Solutions East Texas Board Chairman Claude Figueroa.

 

"Workforce Solutions East Texas has been a secret far too long. We want and need all of our employers and educational institutions to know all of the available resources we have to offer. And then, they need to take advantage of them. Together, we can help each community within East Texas to 'grow their own workforce,'” said WSET Centers Director Angelia Snow.


The following dates have been confirmed for Rural, Set, Go: Boost! community forums:

  • March 22 in Palestine, Texas, at Trinity Valley Community College, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
  • March 29 in Gilmer, Texas, at the Open Range Restaurant, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
  • April 5 in Canton, Texas, at the Silver Spur, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM


Dates for all eleven forums are available online at https://www.easttexasworkforce.org/ruralsetgo. Event details will be added as they are confirmed.

 

“One of the greatest resources East Texas employers offer employees is the chance to work in the towns and countryside of the Piney Woods, close enough to markets to conduct business, far enough to not spend hours commuting. Come tell us how to help you draw, support, and refine your talent base, taking your business to the next level,” said Doug Shryock, WSET Executive Director.

Request for Applications: High Demand Job Training Grant FY26

By ETCOG & Workforce Solutions East Texas • September 4, 2025
Deadline for applications - September 26, 2025
Two women: one laughing, the other with a raised hand, in a well-lit room, possibly a home or office.

You’re Invited: Let’s Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • September 3, 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.
A man in a white shirt stands in front of a bookshelf. The words

From Summer Job to Career Path: Malachi Whedbee’s SEAL Success

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • August 26, 2025
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.
Show More