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Joe Esparza, Chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission, attending the 18th Annual Artie Lee Hinds Award Dinner

Governor Greg Abbott has named Joe Esparza as Chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) on September 29, 2025.

“I am deeply grateful to Governor Abbott for the opportunity to serve as Chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “I look forward to leading the Commission and working with Commissioners Connett and Treviño to ensure Texas continues to attract employers on a global scale with our dynamic business climate, skilled workforce, and strong community partnerships.” 

Esparza has served TWC as the Commissioner Representing Employers over the past two years. Prior to his appointment, Esparza served as the Texas Deputy Secretary of State, having previously served as a Senior Appointments Manager in the Office of the Governor, overseeing numerous gubernatorial appointments during Governor Abbott’s first term.

Source: Texas Workforce Commission

Mohsen Badran, President and CEO of ACCESS New Jersey, attending the 18th Annual Artie Lee Hinds Award Dinner

WorkQuest was honored to welcome Mohsen Badran, President and CEO of ACCESS New Jersey, to this year’s Artie Lee Hinds Award Dinner.

Mr. Badran’s long-standing dedication to advancing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities aligns closely with WorkQuest’s mission. His presence was a reminder of the shared values that unite organizations across the country, such as the State Use Program Association (SUPRA), in supporting inclusive employment.

On behalf of the entire WorkQuest team, we extend our sincere appreciation to Mr. Badran for joining us and for his continued leadership in creating meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities.

Marie Richter (left) and Kyle Radford (right) holding the 2025 ACCSES President’s Award plaque

WorkQuest staff members Fred Weber Jr., Kyle Radford and Marie Richter, were recognized with the President’s Award at this year’s ACCSES 2025 Summer Conference & Annual Meeting. ACCSES expressed gratitude to WorkQuest for their thoughtfulness and generous sharing of their wisdom and experience.

From left to right: WorkQuest staff, Kyle Radford, Taylor Pena, Madison Stark, Ray Zaman, Deidra Davis, Marie Richter, Roxy VanLoo, attending Goodwill Industries of East Texas’ 50th Anniversary Celebration

On Tuesday, November 18th, the WorkQuest team joined Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Inc. for their Out of the Blue 50th Anniversary Celebration. The luncheon was filled with recognition, community and gratitude as attendees reflected on Goodwill East Texas’ 50 years of service and the many lives impacted through their organization. WorkQuest congratulates Goodwill Industries of East Texas on five decades of creating meaningful opportunities and strengthening communities. It was an honor to be part of such a memorable milestone.

From left to right: Fred Weber Jr., Gerald Goodwin, Ray Zaman, Roxy VanLoo, Daulton Swenson and Kyle Radford representing WorkQuest at the 2025 Special Olympics sponsorship

On September 5th, WorkQuest proudly sponsored and participated in the Special Olympics Unified Fore Joy ProAm event at Top Golf in Austin, Texas. This exciting event brought together community members, athletes, and corporate partners for a day of fundraising and friendly competition.

WorkQuest was honored to join other organizations in making this event a success while celebrating the incredible spirit of Special Olympics athletes. We are proud to support Special Olympics Texas and their mission of empowerment and inclusion.

Ray Zaman (furthest left), WorkQuest, Marie Richter (left), WorkQuest, Judy Koetter (middle), Beacon Lighthouse for the Blind President & CEO, Patti Archer (right), Beacon Lighthouse for the Blind, and David Archer (furthest right), Beacon Lighthouse for the Blind, attending Beacon’s Shine Through the Night Gala

On October 11th, Beacon Lighthouse for the Blind hosted their annual Shine Through the Night Gala where attendees enjoyed a silent auction packed with exciting prizes, entertainment and a dinner with glasses mimicking visual impairment.

This event serves as Beacon’s only fundraiser of the year helping to pay the bills and allowing employees to further the organization’s mission. Every ticket, raffle entry, and auction bid ultimately supports training, employment, and opportunities for those served. Not only did those who attended take part of an uplifting atmosphere but they also helped change lives.

WorkQuest was proud to join community members, supporters, and partners in celebrating the organization’s impact and continued dedication to creating meaningful employment opportunities for Texans with disabilities.

Dedicated CRP employees contributing to their teams and workplace

October is Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to recognize the incredible contributions of employees with disabilities.

WorkQuest is proud to support people with disabilities in reaching their full potential. We celebrate the skills, dedication, and unique perspectives that employees with disabilities bring to the workforce. By fostering environments where everyone can thrive, we strengthen not only our workplaces but also our communities.

This month, and in the months ahead, WorkQuest honors the achievements of our employees, partners, and the broader disability community. Together, we will continue to advocate for opportunities that ensure every individual can succeed.

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