Commissioner Representing Labor

Thanks to all the sponsors and speakers for making this event possible and successful.

Garcia: Mission EDC was proud to sponsor Gov. Abbott's Small Business Summit - Rio Grande Guardian Hosted by the Governor's Office of Small Business Assistance, the 2026 Small Business Summit took place at the Mission Event Center.

Great day at the Governor’s Small Business Summit in Mission! This event brought together entrepreneurs and small business owners for a full day of learning and networking. Sessions were led by local, state, and federal partners covering key business topics. Attendees had the chance to connect with experts and fellow owners on growing and strengthening their businesses. 💼 💪

Proud to be part of a community that invests in its entrepreneurs. 👌 🌍

I would like to thank our local partners for making this happen: The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce, Mission Economic Development Corporation, Bert Ogden Chevrolet Mission, and Killam Development.

May is National Foster Care Month, and at the Texas Workforce Commission, it's a good moment to talk about what we do, in plain terms, for the Foster Youth and former Foster Youth across our state. 💫

Our work centers on one question: when a young person ages out of foster care, what does it take for them to build a stable life? The answer is rarely just a job. It's the steps before the job, and the support that holds steady after.

Here is how TWC shows up:
👉 Workforce Solutions offices across Texas connect current and former foster youth ages 16 to 25 with Workforce Advocates who help with resumes, job applications, interview prep, and even work-appropriate clothing. It's hands-on, one-on-one support.
👉 Foster Youth Transition Centers bring multiple services under one roof, including help with employment, education enrollment, food and housing needs, and mentorship. They are designed for youth and young adults navigating big transitions.
👉 Priority of Service means foster youth move to the front of the line for workforce programs, child care assistance, and other services. It's a recognition that the road from foster care to independence has more obstacles than most.
👉 Partner programs like Preparation for Adult Living (PAL), the Education and Training Voucher (ETV) program, and the state tuition and fee waiver give foster and former foster youth a real shot at higher education and the financial footing to pursue it.

None of this is one-size-fits-all. Every young person we serve has their own story, and our job is to meet them where they are. 🤝

If you, or a young person you know, want to learn more about these services, visit: https://www.twc.texas.gov/programs/foster-youth

Texas Workforce Commission Texas Workforce Commission is the state agency charged with overseeing and providing workforce development services to employers and job seekers of Texas.