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).
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.
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.
