Texas Workforce Commission Awards $605,146 in Jobs and Education for Texans Grant Funding to Support Career Training in East Texas

Texas Workforce Commission • May 6, 2022

Elkhart ISD and Kilgore College Receive JET Grant

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) awarded two Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants in the East Texas area to support career training. TWC awarded Elkhart ISD $325,850 to help the school purchase and install welding equipment to train 72 students for machinist and welding careers. The agency awarded Kilgore College $279,296 to purchase safety equipment like firefighting turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatus systems. The equipment will help the college provide 130 students with real-world fire scenario training in the safest possible environment. The equipment funded through these grants will be used to train more students in the future. 


“Congratulations to Elkhart ISD, Kilgore College, and the East Texas Workforce Solution team on receiving this JET grant that will benefit East Texas employers and surrounding communities,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “This investment into state-of-the art equipment will allow students to train at the highest level in order to enter the workforce ready and prepared to meet the needs of our Texas employers in the region.” 


The grants will assist the schools with purchasing welding equipment to support machinist and welding profession careers. Safety equipment like firefighting turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatus systems will provide real-world fire scenario training in the safest possible environment. The profession has been recognized as in demand for the local economy and will provide students with training and certifications for employment. 


Through funding provided by the Legislature each biennium, eligible recipients use TWC’s JET grants to defray the start-up costs to develop career and technical education programs for the public community, state and technical colleges, and school districts. The 87th Texas Legislature added open-enrollment charter schools and the Windham School District as eligible applicants. Equipment funded through JET grants must be used to train students for jobs in high-demand occupations. 


Eligible educational institutions can apply for the next phase of JET funding through a competitive grant process or Request for Applications (RFA). The RFA solicitation provides information and instruction on how to submit a proposal packet. Go to the JET Grant Program webpage to access current and future RFA's or learn more about the program. Interested parties can also email jetgrants@twc.texas.gov for more information.

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Request for Applications: High Demand Job Training Grant FY26

By ETCOG & Workforce Solutions East Texas • September 4, 2025
Deadline for applications - September 26, 2025
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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.
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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.
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