Road to Employment: Texas First Lady and Texas Workforce Commissioner Representing Employers Collaborate to Help Transitioning Foster Youth
Texas Workforce Commission • March 3, 2020
Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott met with employers, community advocates and the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) at a foster youth transition center in Austin, Texas today to bring awareness for the needs and support of foster youth. Every person counts, especially kids in foster care, which is why the TWC provides funding and support services to 18 Foster Youth Transition centers across the state of Texas. These transition centers help foster youth ages 15 and a half to 25 overcome obstacles to employment opportunities. TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson is touring each facility and has invited major employers to assist foster youth that are aging out of the system with employment career opportunities.
“For every child in our foster care system to live a life worthy of their promise, they need what I call a Network of Nurture—a community of families and friends, churches and congregations, business leaders and nonprofit organizations, and anyone willing to share of themselves,” said Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott. “For our youth in foster care nearing adulthood, they especially need our help in finding the right path to self-sufficiency and career success.”
According to Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, in Fiscal Year 2018, 17,500 youth resided in foster care in Texas. Of that number, on average 900 children in Texas age out of the system each year. TWC has funded multiple transition centers since 2008 in an effort to provide a central clearinghouse of one-stop services to serve the diverse needs of older foster youth aging out of the system, youth experiencing homelessness, or other at-risk youth from ages 15 and a half to 25.
“Today is great example of the community and businesses working together to provide career opportunities for transitioning foster youth in Texas,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “I look forward to visiting with organizations, employers and workforce advocates at Foster Youth Transition centers throughout Texas to listen, learn and take action related to employment opportunities.
Transition centers are designed to serve as host locations for services such as Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) services, job readiness and job search assistance, career exploration, higher education enrollment assistance, food and housing assistance, and mentoring. Transition centers also provide colocation opportunities for local partners such as local Workforce Solutions staff, TWC-funded workforce advocates, and colleges and universities to help jointly serve the diverse needs of the youth in one location.
The 18 Transition centers are independently funded, operated, and supported by partnerships between DFPS, the DFPS providers, community partners and TWC. A list of TWC sponsored transition centers can be found at https://twc.texas.gov/foster-youth-transition-centers.
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.
Texas added 1,600 nonfarm jobs in July to reach a total of 14,468,000 positions. Over the year, the state added 165,600 jobs for an annual growth rate of 1.2 percent, outpacing the national rate by a full percentage point. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,915,600 after adding 10,800 people over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 17,800 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.5 percent. “The addition of more than 165,000 jobs over the last year highlights the growth of the Texas economy and the employers who drive it,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “By offering resources like our ASCEND grant and Skills for Success program, TWC is ensuring Texas’ workforce development efforts evolve in stride with the needs of our private sector partners.” The Private Education and Health Services industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in July after adding 5,900 jobs. Professional and Business Services added 3,600 jobs over the month while Leisure and Hospitality added 3,400. “With our labor force expanding by 10,800 people in July, it is evident that the volume of opportunities in Texas is a powerful draw for the American workforce,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “To sustain this momentum, TWC is committed to investing in the success of all workers, utilizing programs like Project Search to provide the vocational rehabilitation and training necessary for Texans of all abilities to thrive.” The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.4 percent in July. It was followed by the San Angelo MSA at 3.8 percent and the Abilene MSA at 3.9 percent. “Texas’ annual growth rate of 1.2 percent is outpacing the national average by a full percentage point, underscoring the dynamism of our economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “TWC is here to help Texans capitalize on that success by offering career and technical education resources that equip students and job seekers for the specialized, high-paying jobs fueling our growth.” 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 August is scheduled to be released on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).
