TWC Celebrates the 30th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act
Texas Workforce Commission • July 17, 2020
Free virtual workshops throughout July will feature distinguished panelists
This month, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) celebrates the 30th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the first comprehensive civil rights law for people with disabilities, prohibiting discrimination in employment, public accommodations, transportation, telecommunications, among others. TWC, in partnership with the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities, the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Parks and Wildlife and Disability Rights Texas, will present a series of virtual workshops
as part of the monthlong event titled “ADA 30 Years - Moving Forward.” The celebration culminates with a virtual tour of Texas on July 24 and includes a Texas-sized celebration keynote
featuring renowned disability rights educator, activist and chief architect of the ADA Dr. Lex Frieden.
“We take this time to recognize the Americans with Disabilities Act and the foundation it has provided to ensure people with disabilities can fully participate in our communities,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “TWC will continue to support a Texas workforce system that values and acknowledges the contributions of individuals with disabilities.”
While most people think of the ADA as the set of laws requiring things like wheelchair ramps, accessible transportation or interpreters, we can also credit the spirit of the ADA for helping to inspire innovations in accessible technology that has improved the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Accommodations in employment required by the ADA help to level the playing field by providing supports for people with disabilities and most accommodations come with minimal costs or changes for employers. Examples of reasonable accommodations include making existing facilities accessible; job restructuring; part-time or modified work schedules; acquiring or modifying equipment, training materials, or policies; and providing qualified readers or interpreters.
Estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau are that one in four Americans, or 61 million adults, have a disability and 19.6 million people between 21-64 with a disability. In Texas, 9.7 percent of working age Texans between 21-64 have a disability or about 1.5 million people. As of June 2020, the unemployment rate for people with a disability was 17.6 percent, as compared to 11.1 percent for people without a disability.
“Businesses that make inclusion a priority in their hiring processes, not only benefit their business, but they send a clear message to their workforce and local community that everyone’s abilities are valued,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “The influence of businesses and employers can have an immeasurable impact on decreasing the unemployment rate among individuals with disabilities. “I encourage Texas businesses to connect with the VR and Workforce Professionals at their local Workforce Solutions Office to discover ways that can be assisted in making inclusion a priority.”
As Texas employers make plans for their future business and workforce needs, accommodation and inclusion will be important factors in building teams that are innovative and adaptable so that they can look at old problems in new and different ways. Individuals with disabilities are experienced problem solvers with a proven ability to adapt.
“As we commemorate this milestone of the 30th anniversary of the ADA, this year also marks the 75th observance of the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM),” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “This year’s theme is ‘Increasing Access and Opportunity.’ That is a mission that TWC takes to heart throughout the year. Our mission is to serve all Texans. I encourage job seekers, employers and anyone wanting to learn more to participate in one of the many ADA webinars this month.”
Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS) partners with the Texas Workforce System to support job seekers with disabilities as they prepare for, obtain or maintain competitive integrated employment. To find a VR office, please visit www.texas.gov/VRNearMe.
At Workforce Solutions East Texas, developing a skilled and prepared talent pipeline is at the heart of everything we do. Our staff are deeply committed to connecting with students and communities across the region, helping to bridge the gap between education and employment through hands-on, interactive learning experiences. Recently, our team had the privilege of participating in two impactful events designed to equip East Texas students with essential workforce skills. Mock Interview Event – Westwood ISD In partnership with Westwood Independent School District, Workforce Solutions East Texas staff participated in a Mock Interview event that provided high school students with valuable, real-world experience. Our team, along with various local employers, assisted in conducting one-on-one interviews with students, offering feedback on their resumes, professional demeanor, and interview responses. The event served as a crucial stepping stone for students preparing to enter the job market, boosting their confidence and sharpening their skills. Students also had the opportunity to visit employer booths and ask questions about the industries and careers available at each company. This initiative is just one example of how we work closely with local schools to ensure students are ready for success after graduation. By simulating the interview process in a supportive environment, students gained critical insight into employer expectations and how to best present themselves for future opportunities. Adulting 101 – Carthage High School Another standout event took place at Carthage High School, where Workforce Solutions East Texas staff joined forces with educators for the school’s "Adulting 101" day. Designed to introduce students to essential life skills, the event featured sessions on job readiness, financial literacy, and career planning. Our team led workshops that helped students explore various career paths, understand the local labor market, and learn how to create effective resumes. We also provided guidance on workplace professionalism, soft skills, and setting long-term career goals—key components in preparing students for the transition from school to the workforce. Continuing the Mission These events underscore our ongoing mission to support youth education, career exploration, and workforce preparedness throughout East Texas. By engaging directly with students in school settings, Workforce Solutions East Texas is proud to play a role in developing a resilient, skilled, and adaptable future workforce. We extend our thanks to Westwood ISD and Carthage High School for their collaboration and dedication to student success. Together, we are building strong foundations that will empower the next generation of East Texas talent.
The Texas labor market reached record highs in both total jobs and the size of the civilian labor force in April. Texas added 37,700 positions over the month to reach a total of 14,320,100 nonfarm jobs. The state added 215,500 jobs over the year, bringing the annual nonfarm growth rate to 1.5 percent, which outpaced the national growth rate by 0.3 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force achieved another new record high of 15,814,400 after adding 35,900 people over the month and marking 58 of 60 months of growth. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 292,400 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.1 percent. “The positive trends in the Texas labor market show the Lone Star State’s efforts to invest in the success of the Texas economy,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “Focusing on things like skills development, innovation, and strategic partnerships, TWC continues our efforts to offer funding and support for both employers and job seekers.” The Professional and Business Services industry had the largest over-the-month increase in April after adding 10,900 jobs. Private Education and Health Services added 7,400 jobs over the month while Trade, Transportation, and Utilities added 6,300. In addition, the Mining and Logging industry grew by 1.4 percent over the year in Texas and outperformed the industry’s growth rate nationally by 2.2 percentage points. “Texas’ strong focus on innovation and economic growth is driving a growing demand for skilled workers across many industries,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “At TWC, we’re committed to meeting that need through programs like ApprenticeshipTexas and Upskill Texas, which help Texans build the skills they need to thrive in today’s workforce and in the careers of the future.” The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 2.6 percent in April, followed by the Amarillo and San Angelo MSAs at 2.7 percent. “The Texas labor market continues its strong upward trajectory, adding more than 37,000 jobs in April and building on months of growth,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “TWC will continue to provide employers with the resources and support needed to grow their businesses and create more opportunities for Texans.” 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 May is scheduled to be released on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).
Texas' economy continued its strong performance in March, with the labor market achieving record highs in both total jobs and the size of the civilian labor force. Texas added 26,500 positions over the month to reach a total of 14,282,600 nonfarm jobs. The state added 192,100 jobs over the year, bringing the annual nonfarm growth rate to 1.4 percent which outpaced the national growth rate by 0.2 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force achieved another new record high of 15,778,500 after adding 8,400 people over the month, marking 57 of 59 months of growth. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 301,400 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.1 percent. “Texas continues to lead the nation and break records for economic growth,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “With 26,500 positions added in March, TWC continues to connect job seekers and employers to keep Texas working.” The Private Education and Health Services industry had the largest over-the-month increase in March after adding 9,500 jobs. Construction added 8,500 jobs over the month, and Trade, Transportation, and Utilities added 6,100. In addition, the Construction industry grew by 3.4 percent over the year in Texas and outperformed the industry’s growth rate nationally by 1.6 percentage points. “The robust Texas economy continues to create opportunities for our workforce, as evidenced by over 544,000 job postings in March, despite record employment,” noted TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “TWC is committed to ensuring Texans can capitalize on this economic momentum by providing services like career counseling, job search assistance, and skills training, helping them develop a clear path to career success.” The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 2.9 percent in March, followed by the Amarillo MSA at 3.1 percent and the San Angelo MSA at 3.1 percent. “Texas is outpacing the nation in various industries, reinforcing the state’s reputation across the world as the best for doing business,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “TWC is committed to investing in innovative programs and partnerships that ensure Texas employers have the workforce to grow in today’s evolving market.” 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 April is scheduled to be released on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).
