TWC Launches Employer Child Care Initiative

October 22, 2025

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) invites employers to apply for the Employer Child Care Solutions (ECCS) initiative. The ECCS initiative offers technical assistance to help businesses meet the child care needs of their employees.

“At the Texas Workforce Commission, we are committed to keeping Texans working, and high-quality child care expands opportunities for families in the workforce,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “The Employer Child Care Solutions initiative encourages employers to pursue technical assistance for innovative child care solutions.”

ECCS technical assistance providers will help employers develop child care solutions at or near the workplace. Employers will also gain access to resources and support services such as:

  • Employee Needs Assessments
  • Employer Feasibility and Cost Analysis Studies
  • Options Analysis and Recommendations Reports
  • Site Selection Reports
  • Business Plan Development


“The new Employer Child Care Solutions initiative is about bringing folks together to help working families find affordable, quality child care,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “When parents have reliable child care, they can focus on their jobs, provide for their families, and keep our Texas economy strong.”

Employers can visit the TWC Employer Child Care Solutions webpage to request guidance from a qualified provider. Services will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

“The Employer Child Care Solutions initiative is a valuable resource that can help employers unlock even greater prosperity for our Texas economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “By partnering with businesses, we're empowering working families to thrive, fueling workforce participation, and building a stronger Texas economy for generations to come.”

Important Note: Technical assistance through ECCS does not include funding child care financial assistance (subsidies). In addition, the employer will not receive any funding through this initiative.

Texas Adds 40,100 Jobs in January as Job Growth Outpaces Nation

April 6, 2026
Texas added 40,100 nonfarm jobs in January to reach a total of 14,379,500 positions. Over the year, the state added 112,200 jobs for an annual nonfarm growth rate of 0.8 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.6 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,955,200 after decreasing by 3,400 over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 152,000 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas remained stable at 4.3 percent. “Texas employers continue to spur our state’s economic momentum, adding more than 40,000 jobs across a wide range of major industries,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “TWC remains committed to supporting Texas’ pro-growth policies and world-class talent pipeline that make Texas the best place to do business.” The Construction industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in January after adding 11,800 jobs. Construction also posted an annual growth rate of 3.4 percent in January, which was the highest of any major industry. The Leisure and Hospitality industry and Private Education and Health Services industry each added 10,300 jobs over the month while Professional and Business Services added 10,200. “The growth we're seeing in sectors like Construction and Leisure and Hospitality is promising, but we need to ensure these jobs translate into real opportunities for Texas workers,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Trevino III. “That's why TWC's focus on apprenticeship programs and initiatives like the Jobs and Education for Texans grant is vital, providing the training and resources Texans need to succeed in these growing fields and build lasting careers.” The Amarillo metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.3 percent in January. It was followed by the Midland MSA at 3.4 percent and the San Angelo MSA at 3.5 percent. “Job growth in Texas continues to outpace the nation thanks in large part to a dynamic workforce system that enables both employers and job seekers to thrive,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “TWC resources connect working Texans with high-demand career opportunities while ensuring Texas businesses have access to a skilled workforce.” 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 February is scheduled to be released on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).

Windows of Opportunity Regionwide Job Fair Returns April 28

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • April 1, 2026
Tuesday, April 28 | Athens, Longview, Marshall, Palestine, and Tyler

Dr. Robert Haberle Honored with Regional Shining Star Award

March 24, 2026
The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) has recognized Dr. Robert Haberle with the Regional Shining Star Award, a distinction reserved for individuals who go above and beyond in service to the region. Unlike traditional awards, the Regional Shining Star Award is not part of a public nomination process. It is presented only in rare cases when someone demonstrates exceptional, long-term commitment to ETCOG and its programs. Dr. Haberle’s 15 years of service make him a clear and deserving recipient. Dr. Haberle has served on the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board since 2011. During that time, he has played a key role in shaping workforce development efforts across the region. Workforce Solutions East Texas operates with an annual budget of more than $60 million, providing no-cost employment and recruitment services to businesses and job seekers. Over the past year alone, those efforts have supported more than 81,000 businesses and individuals. The program has awarded nearly $1 million in job training scholarships, helped thousands of unemployment claimants return to work, and provided child care assistance to more than 9,000 families. It has also invested millions into improving child care quality and supporting local providers. Dr. Haberle’s leadership has helped guide these efforts year after year, contributing to long-term impact across East Texas communities. Board members are appointed by local elected officials, and Dr. Haberle was appointed by Cherokee County Judge Chris Davis. Throughout his tenure, he has served in several leadership roles, including Chair of the Workforce Centers Committee, Vice Chairman, and Board Chairman. From October 2016 through September 2022, he served six years as Chairman. During that time, he helped strengthen collaboration between the Workforce Board and the CEO Board, ensuring alignment and shared leadership across the region. Even after his time as Chairman, Dr. Haberle has remained actively involved. He continues to lead the Workforce Centers Committee and has played an important role in the development of new workforce centers in Longview and Tyler. His service extends beyond East Texas. Dr. Haberle currently serves as Vice Chair of the Texas Association of Workforce Boards and represents the region at the national level through the National Association of Workforce Boards. Prior to his work in workforce development, Dr. Haberle served as Mayor of Jacksonville from 2005 to 2011. During that time, he also represented the city on the ETCOG General Board and contributed to regional efforts through the Texas Municipal League. Dr. Haberle’s leadership, service, and dedication have left a lasting impact on workforce development and regional collaboration in East Texas.  ETCOG proudly recognizes Dr. Robert Haberle as a Regional Shining Star Award recipient and thanks him for his continued commitment to the communities he serves.
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