WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS
Job Brief

July 2024 ι VOLUME 15 ι ISSUE 7
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Workforce Board News

The Workforce board is scheduled to meet Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. Visit setworks.org for details.
Welcome our newest board members!

LaToya Overstreet (GOALS), Laura Morales, (Chevron Phillips Chemical Company), Telisha McCall, (Stellar Bank.) Thank you for your commitment to Southeast Texas!
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Delayed not Denied: Region 5 ESC Graduation
Our community partner, Region 5 Education Service Center, held its graduation ceremony on July 9, 2024, at Lamar State College Port Arthur. Graduates shared how this accomplishment had changed their lives. Shane Stutler, the eldest graduate of 2024, shared his story, emphasizing that while he faced delays, he was never denied the chance to finish his education. He was thrilled to complete what he started and excited about the new opportunities ahead.

The Adult Education and Literacy program is a vital part of our community offering a second chance to Southeast Texans. It gives individuals the opportunity to earn their High School Equivalency, which can help them support their families, thrive in our community, and build a stronger future workforce. This program is essential for opening new doors for people who might have faced obstacles in their educational journey.

Region 5 Education Service Center states these classes are open to all Texas residents who are not currently enrolled in a public school. This inclusivity helps create a more educated and capable community, ready to meet the demands of the modern workforce and pursue further educational and career opportunities. The success stories from this year's graduation are a testament to the profound impact the Adult Education and Literacy program has on individual lives and Southeast Texas.

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Summer Earn and Learn (SEAL)

The Summer Earn and Learn (SEAL) program is an initiative designed for students with disabilities aged 14-22, offering them the chance to earn a paycheck while acquiring new skills and gaining valuable professional experience through work-based learning. This program not only empowers students but also provides participating employers with eager and dedicated team members, enhancing workplace diversity and inclusion.

SEAL is a collaborative effort between the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), Workforce Solutions Boards, and local employers. This partnership aims to create meaningful work opportunities that help students transition into the workforce. One of the key components of SEAL is the work readiness training provided to all participants. This training equips students with essential skills and knowledge, preparing them for successful employment throughout the summer program.

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Workforce Connects: STEM Camp

Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas partnered with Lamar University Texas Academy's summer STEM camp. This weeklong camp was held over three weeks serving over 150 students from area middle and high schools. The camps introduce campers to several industry clusters: advanced technologies and manufacturing, aerospace and defense, biotechnology and life sciences, information and computer technology, petroleum refining and chemical products, and energy. WFS had the opportunity to present virtual reality career exploration by utilizing Transfr headsets to the students. They were able to choose out of 20 hands on careers and experience it virtually. In addition, Workforce Solutions of Southeast Texas was also able to sponsor over 25 students that are potentially eligible for Vocational Rehabilitation Services. These students were able to participate in the camp as well as obtain information on transition services offered by Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Over the three weeks of camp, four of the WFS sponsored students received Camper of the Week. We look forward to Summer STEM Camp 2025.
Take Note: Rapid Response Services!

Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas offers Rapid Response services to employers and dislocated workers, an employee who has lost their job due to no fault of their own. Rapid Response assists workers with steps to transition into other employment opportunities. Rapid Response services depend on the employer and employee needs and are provided at no cost to the employer or job seekers.

Rapid Response services may cover the following topics:
  • Information on basic eligibility for unemployment benefits and how to apply
  • Registration in WorkInTexas.com, which is required for unemployment benefits
  • Résumé development
  • Interviewing skills
  • Labor market information
  • Financial management including tips on retirement plans and healthcare coverage
To schedule a rapid response orientation for an upcoming layoff or closure please contact Alexis Miller via email at alexis.miller@setworks.org

Unemployment Rates


*Source: Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS)/Texas Workforce Commission and Bureau of Labor Statistics

A World-Class Competitive Workforce for Southeast Texas.
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