We are strong, we are Texas, and we are hardworking Americans. We all work hard to earn a living, to move forward in life and to be able to give our family everything they need. This Labor Day weekend, we at Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) dedicate a special greeting to those who strive every day to give the best to their family – to place food on the table. You, as working Texans, are the individuals who move the economy of this great state and therefore deserve multiple congratulations.
You are the number one reason new Texas businesses move here every day.
This holiday, TWC recognizes the more than 14 million workers who are the backbone of our strong Texas economy. The state’s economic miracle is directly linked to the innovation and competitiveness of employers in a range of growing industries providing workers with more opportunities to demonstrate their world-class skills. However, that would not be possible without our workers. A look back in review, this past year has been remarkable for Texas.
The Texas labor market continues to add jobs with the addition of 323,300 positions added between July 2018 and July 2019. Our state’s unemployment rate remained at a historic low of 3.4 percent in July, slightly below the national rate of 3.7 percent. We are laying the foundation for a better tomorrow.
This Labor Day offers us the opportunity to not only celebrate our workers and recognize our employers but also reaffirm our strong commitment to ensuring every Texan has equal opportunity. We take this time to encourage employers to allow us to connect them with workers from diverse and talented populations who are eager to put their skills to work. We can help employers learn the benefits of hiring veterans through programs such as Texas Operation Welcome Home and assist with recruiting, hiring, retaining and accommodating employees with disabilities.
We understand the importance of putting Texans to work. TWC and the state’s 28 local workforce development boards, and over 200 Workforce Solutions offices, partner with local economic development organizations, community colleges and other stakeholders to ensure workers have access to job opportunities and to prepare the growing workforce with the advanced skills needed to allow for continued job growth throughout the state of Texas. Additionally, in order to assist individuals in preparing for career opportunities, the Skills Development Fund and Skills for Small Business programs aim to help employers create new jobs and/or upgrade the skills of their current workforce.
The TWC and Texas Workforce Solutions family are grateful for the contributions that Texas’ workers have made to strengthen and prosper our state. As you enjoy this holiday with family or friends, we thank you for helping to make Texas the best place to live and work!
Bryan Daniel, Chairman, Commissioner Representing the Public
Julian Alvarez, Commissioner Representing Labor
Aaron Demerson, Commissioner Representing Employers
