Texas Employment Numbers Continue to Set Records in September

Texas Workforce Commission • October 26, 2022

Tyler Rate 3.5%, Longview Rate 4.3%

In September 2022, Texas added 40,000 nonfarm jobs, more than doubling the number of jobs added in August. For the eleventh consecutive month, the state set new employment highs as total nonfarm employment reached 13,571,800. The Texas economy has added 721,800 positions since September 2021. The Texas seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.0 percent, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points from August 2022.


“Texas’ total nonfarm job annual growth rate has outpaced the United States for the last 15 months, demonstrating one of the key factors that make Texas the top choice for employers and their workforce,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “With more than half a million job ads posted right now in Texas, TWC remains dedicated to ensuring job seekers have the skills employers need to fill those positions.”


Leisure and Hospitality job growth surged in September, with 25,700 positions added, marking an 11.8 percent over-the-year change. Second in over-the-month growth, Trade, Transportation, and Utilities grew by 7,600 jobs. Financial Activities followed with a gain of 6,200 jobs.


“More people in Texas are working today than ever before. In fact, more people in Texas are working than the entire population of the state of Pennsylvania,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “TWC offers an array of free services to Texans to ensure their success – everything from free online learning courses to occupational training and hiring events. We’re here to help.”


The Amarillo and Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA) continued to record the lowest unemployment rates among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 2.8 percent each in September, followed by Midland at 3.0 percent, then College Station-Bryan and Lubbock both at 3.1 percent.


“Major private-sector industries have grown faster in Texas than they have nationally over the past year, and this is a direct result of existing and new Texas employers recognizing and taking advantage of the opportunities in the Lone Star State,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “For example, the Information industry had 10.9 percent over-the-year growth in Texas, compared to a 5.9 percent national rate. TWC and our Workforce Solutions partners are here to ensure Texas employers have the talent they need for those lucrative careers.”


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 & Career Information Data for October is scheduled to be released on Friday, November 18, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. (CST).



Civilian Labor Force Estimates for Texas Metropolitan Statistical Areas Not Seasonally Adjusted (In Thousands)

C.L.F Employed Unemployed Rate
United States 164,463.0 159,003.0 5,460.0 3.3
Texas 14,538.9 13,982.1 556.9 3.8
Tyler 111.0 107.1 3.9 3.5
Longview 96.0 91.9 4.1 4.3
Full List
Community meeting in a conference room, with people seated facing a speaker near flags and a screen.

October 13th: Let’s Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

By Workforce Solutions East Texas & Vocational Rehabilitation Services • September 1, 2026
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.
Success Story poster for Work Experience Program with a woman’s portrait and the name Ashley Stevenson.

Building a Brighter Future: Ashlee Stevenson’s Journey from Determination to Opportunity

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • August 26, 2026
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.
Four people standing at a conference backdrop beside a blue “Success Story: Shayanne Foil” sign

From Seeker to Navigator: Shyanne Foil’s New Purpose After Job Loss

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • August 26, 2026
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.
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