Events

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.

Texas Workforce Commission Meeting
February 3, 2026 – 10:00 AM
TWC Main Building – Room 244101 East 15th Street Austin, Texas 78778

Texas Workforce Commission Meeting
January 27, 2026 – 10:00 AM
TWC Main Building – Room 244 101 East 15th Street Austin, Texas 78778

Texas Workforce Commission Meeting
January 20, 2026 – 2:00 PM
TWC Main Building – Room 244 101 East 15th Street Austin, Texas 78778

On Sunday, January 4, Texans joined people around the world in recognizing World Braille Day, a day dedicated to honoring the vital role braille plays in literacy, education, employment, and independence for people who are blind or have low vision.
In recognition of this important day, Governor Greg Abbott issued a World Braille Day Proclamation, reaffirming Texas’ commitment to accessibility, literacy, and opportunity for all. The proclamation highlights braille as the foundation of literacy for blind and visually impaired students and recognizes Texas’ leadership in ensuring instructional materials are accessible to learners across the state.

To continue learning and reflecting on the impact of braille, we encourage you to listen to this braille awareness podcast from the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. The episode explores the history, importance, and continued relevance of braille in today’s world: https://tsbvi.podbean.com/e/braille-awareness/.

World Braille Day is a reminder that access to information is essential to full participation in our communities. The Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities thanks the educators, advocates, and organizations across Texas who continue to champion braille literacy and expand opportunities for people who are blind or have low vision.

Click Here to read the World Braille Day Proclamation

The State of Texas recognizes October as Persons with Disabilities History and Awareness Month. This observance was created by the Texas Legislature in 2011 to honor the many achievements of people with disabilities, promote understanding of the disability rights movement, and reaffirm our shared commitment to accessibility for all.

The Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities provides resources including articles, webinars, and educational materials to help Texans participate and learn more about different disabilities. Schools, state agencies, and communities are encouraged to join in by sharing stories, hosting events, and highlighting the historic impact of Texans with disabilities.

Learn more and access resources here: Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities – History and Awareness Month

In Governor Abbott’s proclamation he stated, “Each year, the month of October is dedicated to celebrating and honoring the accomplishments of people with disabilities…Let us ensure that all Texans, regardless of ability status, can help to build the Texas of Tomorrow. “

View Proclamation

Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Day is October 17

The State of Texas recognizes October 17 as Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Day. Established in 2023 by Senate Bill 464, the Blake Pyron Act, this day highlights the vital contributions of entrepreneurs with disabilities to our state’s economy and raises awareness of the unique challenges they face every day.

Entrepreneurs with disabilities represent every industry from technology, hospitality, retail, the arts, and beyond. They bring unique perspectives to problem-solving, inclusive design, and community building. Their success stories demonstrate that entrepreneurship is not only a path to financial independence but also a powerful force for inclusion and change.

Texas has multiple programs and resources aimed at helping entrepreneurs with disabilities:

• The Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Services helps Texans with disabilities who want to become self‐employed or start their own business; and works with business owners who acquire disabilities later and need support.
• Attending the Governor’s Small Business Summits all over the state offer valuable information to entrepreneurs and the Texas Economic Development Division provides information on how to begin and grow a business.
• The Texas Small Business Credit Initiative offers programs like capital access or loan guarantees, including for marginalized businesses (which includes those owned by people with disabilities) when eligible.
• The Small Business Administration offers guidance, funding programs, and training opportunities to help small businesses grow and thrive, including those owned by people with disabilities.
• The Service Corps for Retired Executives is a nonprofit organization providing free business mentoring, workshops, and tools to help entrepreneurs plan, launch, manage, and grow their businesses.

These resources help Texans with disabilities pursue business ownership and access support. Communities, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to celebrate by sharing stories and connecting entrepreneurs with available tools.

To support this year’s celebration, The Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities are hosting a webinar titled Disability and Business: A New Perspective on Entrepreneurship on October 21, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. This session is designed for entrepreneurs looking to overcome barriers and take advantage of programs that can help their businesses thrive. Register for the Zoom webinar here.

Governor Abbott stated in his proclamation, “The Lone Star State is committed to helping entrepreneurs with disabilities access the resources they need to turn their dreams into reality.”

View Proclamation