Texas Workforce Commission Meeting
April 14, 2026 – 10:00 AM
TWC Main Building – Room 244
101 East 15th Street Austin, Texas 78778
WorkQuest staff Taylor Pena, Deidra Davis, Erynn Harrison, Madison Stark, and Melissa Beaty with Kelvin Moore of the Texas Workforce Commission and State Use Program customers during the Horizon Industries training and tour
On Thursday, March 26, WorkQuest and the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) partnered to coordinate an East Texas State Use Training and tour at Horizon Industries (East Texas Lighthouse for the Blind).
Horizon Industries is dedicated to creating meaningful employment opportunities for Texans who are blind or visually impaired across East Texas. As a participating CRP, Horizon Industries provides high-quality products to state customers, including safety boots and shoes as well as a variety of paper products used throughout government operations. In addition to employment, the organization plays a critical role in supporting independence by offering training and services that help individuals adapt to and thrive while living with vision loss.
The training brought together customers from across the region for an opportunity to learn more about the Purchasing from People with Disabilities WorksWonders Program and gain insight into available products and services. Attendees also participated in a facility tour, where they experienced firsthand the meaningful work being performed and the impact the Program has on creating employment opportunities for Texans with disabilities. WorkQuest extends a special thanks to all the customers who attended, Kelvin Moore of the Texas Workforce Commission, WorkQuest staff, and Horizon Industries for supporting a productive and informative training.
WorkQuest Regional Marketing Managers Tricia Sullivan, Erynn Harrison, Taylor Pena, Madison Stark, and Chellby Taylor with State Use Program customers during the West Texas Lighthouse for the Blind State Use training and tour
The Purchaser Training held at West Texas Lighthouse for the Blind on February 12 was a great success! WorkQuest appreciates the customers who joined to learn more about how to maximize the Purchasing from People with Disabilities WorksWonders Program’s benefits. Special thanks to Regional Marketing Managers, Erynn Harrison, Taylor Pena, Madison Stark, and Chellby Taylor for leading, and to West Texas Lighthouse for the Blind for hosting the training and facility tour.
These trainings are a valuable in helping customers better understand and navigate the Program, and WorkQuest is pleased to provide opportunities that support its continued success.
WorkQuest President & CEO, Fred Weber Jr., with SUPRA Board of Directors at the 2026 SUPRA Annual Conference
From January 27 – 30, WorkQuest Staff attended the 2026 State Use PRograms Association (SUPRA) Annual Conference at Anaheim, California, where professionals from State Use Programs across the nation gathered to share insights and strengthen partnerships. The conference offered valuable learning sessions, networking opportunities, and collaborative discussions focused on enhancing the impact of State Use programs. WorkQuest staff returned with fresh perspectives and actionable ideas to continue supporting employment opportunities across Texas.
WorkQuest staff, Rosa Valdez (left) and Jennifer Cortez (right), attending the 2026 Goodwill Annual Board Meeting & Recognition Dinner in celebration of employee achievements
WorkQuest was proud to be represented at Goodwill’s Annual Board Meeting & Recognition Dinner by staff members, Rosa Valdez and Jennifer Cortez. The event brought together community leaders and Goodwill team members to celebrate outstanding achievements and dedication across the organization.
The evening honored employees through special recognitions, including the Achiever of the Year and Graduate of the Year awards. Both honorees shared powerful and emotional stories that highlighted resilience, growth, and the impact of opportunity through Goodwill’s programs. With a strong turnout and a welcoming atmosphere, the event served as a meaningful celebration of success and community impact.
WorkQuest values opportunities like these to support CRPs such as Goodwill and to recognize the individuals whose hard work and determination continue to inspire.
Purchasing from People with Disabilities (PPD) Advisory Committee Meeting
February 19, 2026 – 10:30 AM
101 E 15th St., Rm 244, Austin
101 E 15th St., Rm 244, Austin
AUSTIN ⎯ This February, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is celebrating Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month by highlighting the value of CTE programs and the students who are preparing for high-skill technical careers in more than 460 different fields across the state.
“The Texas workforce is bigger and better than ever before, in large part because of our historic investments in career training and education,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “During my time in office, we have provided millions in grants to prepare Texans for the jobs of tomorrow. We have opened new pathways to expand academic and technical programs across Texas for students to gain access to high-paying jobs. These opportunities ensure Texas remains the best state to live, work and raise a family.”
Governor Abbott issued a proclamation recognizing February 2026 as CTE Month in Texas. This recognition highlights the value of career and technical education in providing students with practical skills and pathways to rewarding careers.
“Career and technical education can be a powerful tool to achieve career success and economic prosperity,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “TWC is committed to partnering with employers and educators to support CTE programs that prepare students for high-demand jobs. The education of young Texans not only strengthens our workforce system, but also Texas’ reputation as the best state for doing business.”
TWC supports CTE through the Dual Credit grant Program and the Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant program. Dual Credit, supported through the Skills Development Fund, pays for equipment used by high school students taking college courses that align with local industry needs. JET grants help schools create or expand CTE training for in-demand occupations. Together, these programs have given more than 67,000 students the skills they need for success.
TWC and Workforce Solutions career coaches work with CTE programs at Texas schools to give students Labor Market and Career Information from workforce experts. Career coaches provide students with practical guidance about career readiness, secondary education pathways, work-based learning, apprenticeships, and internships.
TWC also champions Texas Career Signing Day to celebrate high school students who enter careers or pathways leading to in-demand jobs right out of high school. This initiative encourages partnerships among schools, colleges, and apprenticeship programs to help students smoothly transition into the workforce. CTE counselors can use the Career Signing Day toolkit to prepare for their events.
To raise awareness about CTE programs, the 28 Workforce Development Boards host career exploration events throughout the year. Typically coordinated with high schools and community colleges, these events recognize the value in preparing students for future careers and developing high-demand skills. Texans can locate their local Workforce Solutions office by visiting twc.texas.gov/find-locations.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s Career and Technical Education Month Proclamation issued January 28, 2026.
AUSTIN ⎯ The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is currently accepting applications to serve on the Advisory Committee of the Purchasing from People with Disabilities Program, also known as the Works Wonders Program. The committee is made up of 13 members who advise TWC on matters relating to the Works Wonders program. Works Wonders assists individuals with disabilities in achieving independence through productive employment.
The committee meets at least twice a year. At least once each fiscal year, the committee will review and, if necessary, recommend changes to program objectives, performance goals, and measures and criteria for participation.
Committee members include representatives from community rehabilitation programs, advocates, individuals with disabilities, and a representative from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Members serve staggered four-year terms and may not serve more than two terms.
The current advisory committee vacancies represent the following category:
- Two individuals representing an organization that advocates for persons with disabilities
TWC is accepting applications for the current committee vacancies until filled. Selected members will serve a term through February 1, 2029.
For further information or for an application, visit the Purchasing from People with Disabilities Advisory Committee web page on the TWC website. Applications can be requested and submitted by emailing [email protected].
Texas Workforce Commission Meeting
February 3, 2026 – 10:00 AM
TWC Main Building – Room 244101 East 15th Street Austin, Texas 78778
