Commissioner Representing Labor

It was an honor to attend the 2026 Texas Workforce Commission Foster Youth Conference, in Allen, Texas. 😊

The theme, “Creating Change: Advocating for Foster Youth in a Changing World,” was felt in every session—from discussions on uplifting vulnerable youth through awareness and purposeful action to hearing directly from those with lived experience in the foster care system. This conference brought together dedicated advocates, community partners, and leaders who are committed to expanding opportunities for youth with experience in foster care. As Commissioner Representing Labor, I appreciate the important work being done to bridge the gap between foster care and strengthen workforce pathways, support education, and help these resilient young Texans build successful, independent futures. 🤠 🤝 💪

Thank you to everyone who contributed their expertise, passion, and commitment to creating meaningful change - Laura Villareal, Gabriela Martinez, Jennifer Hart, Katherine Andrade, Steven Sager, Tammy Ames, Steve Pier, Mary York and the TWC Conference Planning team. I would also like to thank Chairman Esparza, Commissioner Connett, Aric Bostick, Gaye Vopat, Tymothy Belseth and Tai Kapaji. 🙌 👏

Together, we can continue building a Texas where every Foster Youth has the opportunity to thrive. 🌟

Exciting news for Texas’ Workforce! 🤩 Governor Abbott announced new agency directives to expand access to high – demand, high-paying careers in the trades. Here at TWC, we are proud to be leading the charge. ⭐️

Based on recommendations from Texas Jobs Council, we’re directed to:
👉 Expand apprenticeship opportunities across new occupations.
👉 Launch a one-stop online hub for career planning resources.
👉 Build unified career pathways for veterans, foster youth, and Texans with disabilities.
👉 Roll our digital Learning and Employment Records to connect jobseekers with employers faster.

This is what building the best-trained workforce in the nation looks like, and we’re just getting started. 👏

Honored to join the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for their apprenticeship banquet! A registered apprenticeship is one of the most powerful tools we have – real training, real wages, real futures. The apprentices at JATC earn wages while they learn, gaining hands on technical training alongside classroom instructions that leads to an industry- recognized credential. ✍ ⚒️ 💰

Congratulations to every apprentice honored, your journey is just beginning. You are powering Texas’s future. 🎓 👏

Thank you to Heat and Frost Insulators & Allied Workers Union Local 87. I would also like to express my gratitude to Leo Damaris, Glenn Miles, Ryan Po***ck, Leonard Aguilar, Estela Castillo and Del Mar College, and DEWALT. 🙂