Virtual Town Hall: ResET, Re-Employ East Texas Video Now Available
Workforce Solutions East Texas • May 15, 2020
Did you miss our Virtual Town Hall? Watch it on YouTube.
Workforce Solutions East Texas hosted a Virtual Town Hall: ResET, Re-Employ East Texas, on Thursday, May 14, 2020, for East Texas elected officials, economic developers, chambers, and business leaders. The event featured a panel of special guest speakers including Texas Workforce Commissioner, Aaron Demerson; State Comptroller, Glenn Hegar; Texas Economic Development Council President/CEO, Carlton Schwab; Longview Chamber President, Kelly Hall; and ETCOG Small Business Loan Manager, Chuck Vanderbilt. Texas Representative, Matt Schaefer, kicked off the event with welcome and introductory comments.
“East Texans, along with the state, nation, and world, have suffered a devastating blow to our thriving economy,” said Workforce Solutions East Texas’ Executive Director, Doug Shryock. “COVID-19 was a tsunami, sweeping out our record low unemployment levels and leaving behind a landscape of destruction. But a tsunami works in two directions; the initial hit, followed by a backlash. Join us as together we dig out and put our jobs and economy back on a stable foundation.”
Workforce Solutions East Texas Center Director, Mary Ann Rojas, welcomed the panelists and invited them to offer their perspectives and expertise on COVID-19 measures to ReSet the East Texas Workforce through:
• Jobs Availability
• Changes to Business Models
• Safety in the Workplace
• Virtual Learning and Working
“The human element always shines brightest in moments of uncertainty,” said Workforce Solutions East Texas Center Director, Mary Ann Rojas. “Through this crisis we have learned to be a little more patient, a little more caring and what it means to be kind. It has shined a light on our talents as workforce professionals and business leaders and has put a focus on workplace safety just as it has revealed the true value of work and the America worker. We are going to do our best to support our business partners and further develop the skills of our workforce.”
The discussion panel was moderated be ETCOG’s Director of Workforce & Economic Development, Doug Shryock. Approximately 90 attendees joined the virtual meeting hosted on Zoom.
Deadline for applications - September 26, 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.
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.
