West Fraser Wins Award at Texas Workforce Conference

December 16, 2025

Award Honors Local Employer of Excellence in Texas

Workforce Solutions East Texas is proud to recognize West Fraser as the region's 2025 Local Employer of Excellence. West Fraser accepted the award at the Texas Workforce Commission's (TWC) 28th Annual Texas Workforce Conference held Dec. 3 - Dec. 5, 2025, in Corpus Christi. Local Workforce Development Boards nominate employers who make a positive impact on workers, the community, and the state through their partnerships with Texas Workforce Solutions.


West Fraser was selected for this award for its deep investment in East Texas people and places. From its Henderson mill, the company continues to strengthen the local economy through major reinvestment, including a $255 million modernization that will expand production, improve safety, and add long-term stability to the workforce. West Fraser is known for promoting from within, filling most salaried roles with current employees and backing that promise with hands-on training and leadership development. The company also works closely with Workforce Solutions East Texas and shows up at local job fairs to connect residents with good-paying careers close to home.


“In short, West Fraser builds more than lumber. They build opportunity, right here in East Texas,” said WSET Executive Director Doug Shryock. “Their efforts not only help bolster our economy but also set a benchmark for responsible and impactful corporate citizenship, and we are thrilled to recognize them with this award.”

 

“The Employer of Excellence award is a well-earned recognition for outstanding contributions to both the community and the Texas economy,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “From job creation to workforce innovation, West Fraser is a model for a growing and thriving business in Texas.”
 

Workforce Solutions East Texas is among 28 Local Workforce Development Boards located throughout the state. The Board serves Henderson, Van Zandt, Rains, Wood, Upshur, Camp, Marion, Harrison, Panola, Gregg, Rusk, Cherokee, Anderson, and Smith counties. Through partnerships with TWC and their communities, Workforce Boards meet the needs of Texas employers and workers through locally designed, market-driven workforce development initiatives and services. All employers and individuals can take advantage of these services.
 
For more information about resources available to East Texas employers and job seekers, visit www.easttexasworkforce.org. 

Crowns & Courage: How One Mother Built a Stronger Future Through the WIOA Youth Program

December 16, 2025
When Princess Tyeskie first walked into Workforce Solutions East Texas, she carried a deep determination to build a better life for herself and her children. As a single mother with experience in fast food and retail, she was ready for something more—something stable, meaningful, and aligned with the future she dreamed of.  Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Program, Princess was placed at Dr. Willis Longview Footcare Clinic. It was a new environment, but she stepped into it with courage and purpose. Her professionalism, reliability, and warm spirit quickly stood out, and she soon became a trusted part of the team. By the end of her work experience, Princess had gained more than new skills—she had earned a direct hire with the clinic as a Medical Administrative Assistant. It was a life-changing moment that reflected her determination and the power of the opportunities WIOA provides. When asked about her experience, Princess shared: “Through the Workforce Solutions East Texas Youth Program, I was given the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the medical field—the area I aspire to specialize in.” During her Work Experience at Dr. Willis Longview Footcare Clinic, Princess quickly demonstrated the professionalism, compassion, and determination that WSET staff always knew she had. She simply needed the opportunity to show it. The WIOA Work Experience program opened that door. “My dedication and ability to adapt to the clinic’s environment led to me being directly hired after completing my work experience. This achievement reflects my commitment, my work ethic, and my passion for providing quality medical care,” Princess states. Today, Princess stands in a career she once only dreamed about—one that brings stability, pride, and a renewed sense of purpose. Her success is more than a job; it’s a foundation for her children to look up to and build upon. More than that, it’s an invitation—an invitation for others to dream bigger, take the first step, and trust that transformation begins with opportunity. Princess’s journey serves as a reminder that even when life feels heavy, adjusting your crown and moving forward can lead to powerful new beginnings.

Carthage Pop-Up Job and Resource Fair Connects Residents to Opportunity

December 16, 2025
Workforce Solutions East Texas recently hosted a Pop-Up Job and Resource Fair in Carthage, creating a one-stop shop for local residents seeking employment opportunities and support services. The event welcomed 32 job seekers, connected them with 4 local employers, and provided access to 3 community resource partners—all working together to help ease the career journey for Panola County residents. The goal of the fair was simple but impactful: bring direct assistance, meaningful connections, and additional support together in one place. Job seekers had the opportunity to speak directly with employers, explore available jobs, and connect with community organizations offering resources that can help remove barriers to employment. A highlight of the event was the introduction of Workforce Solutions East Texas’ new Mobile Career Center. The mobile unit is equipped with computers and employment resources and will be available every Wednesday at the Panola County Chamber of Commerce, giving residents continued access to services without needing to travel to a physical office. We were proud to co-partner on this event with our friends at the Panola County Chamber of Commerce, whose continued support of workforce development plays a vital role in strengthening the local community. Their commitment to connecting people with opportunity aligns closely with the mission of Workforce Solutions East Texas. Events like the Carthage Pop-Up Job and Resource Fair demonstrate the power of collaboration and community-focused solutions, helping residents take the next step toward meaningful employment and long-term success.

Vocational Rehabilitation Spotlight: How is Eligibility determined?

December 15, 2025
There are so many different programs at the community, state and federal level to assist people with getting support for various aspects of their lives, and each one has an eligibility process that can cause confusion due to the similarity and overlap throughout. Knowing what goes into each program before applying can help to ease the anxiety that goes along with seeking assistance. It is important to remember that everyone living in Texas has the right to apply for services through Vocational Rehabilitation, but Eligibility is based on the following factors and is handled on a case-by-case basis. First and foremost, there is no financial component to being eligible for services through Vocational Rehabilitation. Many individuals may require assistance in advancing in their career or maintaining their current job based off a new disability or medical condition, or through new understanding of what accommodations may be available for them. There are also many misconceptions regarding receiving Social Security Benefits based upon Disability Status, and VR has counselors with additional training to help those individuals in understanding how work could (or may not) impact their benefits. The primary factor in Eligibility for Vocational Rehabilitation is whether or nor the individual has a medical condition, mental health condition, or history of such that would qualify as a disability or barrier to their ability to obtain, maintain, or advance in employment. Providing your counselor with any existing doctors evaluations or medical records (or at the very least their contact information and signed consent to request those records) makes the process go more smoothly. This information is used to determine where VR can best support the individual, and what services they may need based on the overall employment goal. These records, along with the customer’s report of what their experience living with these conditions provide the counselor with a fuller picture regarding what supports the customer already has in place, what they have tried that hasn’t worked in the past, and a better idea of how VR can help in the long run. If you or someone you know has a disability, medical or mental health diagnosis that is impacting their ability to go to work or advance in their careers, please reach out to Vocational Rehabilitation Services today! 
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