Transforming Ambition into Achievement through WIOA

Workforce Solutions East Texas • January 8, 2024

Christopher Ramos, an Upshur County resident, embarked on a journey toward a career in Information Technology (IT) through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program. With a short-term goal of entering the IT field and a long-term vision of becoming a network maintenance specialist, Ramos set his sights on gaining professional experience. 


The initial career pathway assessments highlighted Ramos's business and clerical skills and a strong interest in science and technology. Placed in an On-the-Job Training role at Jarvis Christian University, Ramos thrived as an Information Technology Technician. Under the mentorship of Christopher Watson, the IT Director, he honed his skills, mastering programming, development, installation, and assessing technology needs within the organization.


Ramos credits his success to the referral by Jessica Yates from Workforce Solutions East Texas. Her guidance and introduction to the WIOA program paved the way for his enrollment, pushing him toward an enriching experience at Jarvis Christian University. 


Continuing his journey with Jarvis Christian University, Ramos remains dedicated to his chosen career path in IT. His story is a testament to the transformative power of programs like WIOA and the significance of supportive networks in realizing one's ambitions. As he thrives in his role, Ramos embodies the spirit of perseverance and determination, showcasing how access to the right opportunities and guidance can shape a promising career. The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.


Workforce Solutions East Texas can provide many services to adults with barriers to employment through our WIOA Program. This program allows us to provide job skills for our future job seekers. We can do this by providing paid work experience, on-the-job training, work readiness courses, and scholarships for school! Apply at www.easttexasworkforce.org/apply.

Texas Adds More than 46,000 Jobs in March

May 1, 2026
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Resilient Texas Job Market Shows Industry-Specific Growth as Unemployment Remains Stable

April 22, 2026
The total number of nonfarm jobs in Texas registered at 14,354,600 after decreasing by 8,500 positions in February. Over the year, the state added 73,800 jobs for an annual nonfarm growth rate of 0.5 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.4 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,941,800 after decreasing by 13,400 over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 121,200 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas remained stable at 4.3 percent. “Texas’ over-the-year growth trajectory remains strong because we have cultivated a pro-business climate that helps employers grow and generate new opportunities for working Texans,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “The Texas Workforce Commission is investing strategically in programs that foster long-term economic prosperity across all regions of our state.” The Professional and Business Services industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in February after adding 6,300 jobs. In addition, Manufacturing added 2,500 jobs over the month while Information added 200. Construction posted the highest annual growth rate of any major industry for the 19th month in a row at 2.7 percent in February. “The addition of more than 121,000 people to the labor force over the year reinforces the need to make sure all Texans can participate in—and benefit from—our evolving economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “The Texas workforce system is addressing the needs of today while anticipating those of tomorrow through initiatives like Texas Intern Network, which connects young Texans with employers.” The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.3 percent in February. It was followed by the San Angelo MSA at 3.5 percent and the Abilene MSA at 3.6 percent. “The foundations of the Texas economy are strong, and our employers and workers are resilient and adaptable,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “It’s encouraging to see robust growth surging across key industries like Construction and Professional and Business Services, signaling that there is ample cause for optimism.” 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 March is scheduled to be released on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT). 

TWC Announces Funding Opportunity for Adult Diploma Workforce Program

April 22, 2026
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is now accepting applications for its Workforce Diploma Pilot Program. This funding opportunity is intended to support programs that help adult learners in Texas obtain a high-school diploma, earn industry-recognized credentials, and develop employability skills. The Workforce Diploma Pilot Program is designed to create new career pathways for adult learners. The program connects adults who have not completed high school with education providers that offer a combination of academic instruction, career training, and supportive coaching. Eligible applicants must be authorized to grant a high school diploma in Texas or partner with an accredited entity that is authorized. Applicants are also required to have at least two years of experience in dropout reengagement services for adult students. This includes experience in academic assessments, proactive coaching, employability skills training, and preparation for industry-recognized credentials. Interested organizations must submit their completed responses by May 5, 2026. The complete request for qualifications (RFQ), including all requirements and submission documents, can be found online at: https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/esbd/3202600137 . Organizations must use this portal to submit their response. All questions regarding this RFQ should be emailed to vendorproposals@twc.texas.gov .
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