Texas Unemployment Rate is 6.9 Percent in October
Texas Workforce Commission • November 20, 2020
Longview at 7.5% and Tyler at 6.0%
The Texas’ private sector added 136,300 jobs over the month, and the Texas unemployment rate fell to 6.9 percent in October from 8.3 percent in September. The Texas unemployment rate for October 2020 is in line with the National unemployment rate of 6.9 percent.
“While the unemployment rate captures only a snapshot of our economy at a specific moment in time, the job growth we have seen over the past 6 months shows an enduring strength in the state’s economy,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “To maximize our efforts, TWC will continue to provide opportunities for Texans to enhance their jobs skills, search for new jobs and participate in other workforce services at one of our many Workforce Solutions Offices.”
In October, the Professional and Business services sector added 45,200 jobs—the largest monthly increase recorded for this industry since the series began in 1990. Leisure and Hospitality added 27,700 jobs and Trade, Transportation, and Utilities added 19,300 jobs.
“While the economy may look a bit different, one thing holds true: skilled workers are in-demand,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “TWC is proud to promote on-the-job training through Registered Apprenticeship Programs which help Texans build skills and create careers while earning an income.”
The Amarillo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) recorded October’s lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 4.4 percent, followed by the College Station-Bryan MSA with the second lowest rate of 4.6 percent. The Abilene MSAs recorded the third lowest rate of 4.9 percent.
“Our Texas employers continue to make positive strides, even during the uncertainty of this pandemic,” said Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “My office is committed to ensuring our state resources and TWC services are available to help our Texas employers as they navigate these unchartered waters, continue to safely open their doors and take care of business.”
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 November is scheduled to be released on Friday, December 18, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. (CDT).
Wednesday, November 5 | 10 AM - 1 PM | Maude Cobb Convention Center
SNAP Benefits are not handled by Workforce Solutions East Texas offices. Our staff members cannot assist with your inquiries regarding the Federal Government Shutdown's effect on your benefits. To aid in these concerns, we are sharing information below from Texas Health and Human Services . 2025 Federal Government Shutdown With the federal government shut down, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission is monitoring how it may impact your benefits. Check this page for updates . SNAP SNAP benefits for November won’t be issued if the federal government shutdown continues past Oct. 27. WIC WIC benefits are not affected currently. TANF TANF benefits are not affected currently. Medicaid Medicaid is not affected currently. CHIP CHIP is not affected currently. Find answers about SNAP and other benefits in the Federal Government Shutdown FAQ (PDF) .
We are pleased to introduce the newest officers of our Board of Directors: Chair Gene Keenon, Municipal Services Manager at Republic Services, and Vice Chair Pam Pearson, Administrator of the Wills Point Economic Development Corporation. Keenon represents the Private Business sector and was appointed to the board on December 23, 2014. Pearson represents Economic Development and was appointed on March 17, 2015. Both have dedicated many years to the board and served as chairs of subcommittees, bringing valuable experience and insights to guide the board in supporting our community. "It is a great honor to accept the appointment as Chairman of the Board for the East Texas Workforce Solutions and to serve as a representative of the private business community. I am deeply committed to advancing the mission and values of this exceptional organization," said Keenon. "Having the privilege of doing business throughout all 14 counties in our region, I understand both the challenges and opportunities that exist within our workforce. I pledge to represent our entire area with integrity, dedication, and a steadfast focus on the prosperity and well-being of our citizens. "The Board’s team of dedicated and diverse volunteers plays a vital role in overseeing millions of dollars in training and financial aid programs that empower individuals through childcare support, education, and job-readiness. I have witnessed firsthand the importance of these services—growing up watching my own mother work tirelessly to support her family as a single mom without a high school education —and I know how transformative such resources can be. "Our collective mission is to improve the quality of life for all East Texans. That mission is also my personal goal, and I am eager to work alongside these board members and dedicated staff to strengthen our communities and expand opportunities for all." The Workforce Solutions East Texas Board works with the region’s chief elected officials and sets local workforce policy. The volunteer board is made up mostly of private sector members, along with representatives from labor, education, and community organizations. We proudly serve Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood counties. “I am truly honored by the opportunity to serve as Vice Chair of the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board," said Pearson. It is a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated group of leaders who share a strong commitment to strengthening our workforce and supporting the employers, families, and communities across our region. I have great confidence in the talent, experience, and collaboration of this board as we continue advancing opportunities for East Texans.” We look forward to Keenon and Pearson’s leadership as we plan initiatives that support local businesses and economic growth. Join us in congratulating them at our next Workforce Solutions East Texas Board Meeting on November 12 at our Tyler center located at 4100 Troup Hwy, Tyler, TX 75703.
