Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas

We’re kicking off our new At a Glance series with a spotlight on Freestone County! Through this series, we’ll highlight the counties we serve, the communities that make them unique, and the economic development efforts helping support growth across the Heart of Texas region. For our first feature, we’re visiting Fairfield,Texas in Freestone County to learn more about its local economy, workforce needs, business community, and the partnerships helping shape opportunities for residents and employers. From small businesses and industry growth to the people working behind the scenes, Freestone County has a lot to showcase - and we’re excited to share this closer look. Tune in to hear from local leaders and learn more about what’s helping move Freestone County forward.

A huge shoutout to our new DIAMOND Sponsor for of the 2026 YES! Expo, Electrolit Manufacturing USA. Their generous contribution is helping us elevate the YES! Expo to new heights! Thank you Electrolit, for saying #YEStoyouth! What is the YES! Expo? On April 30, over 3,000 high schools students from across the Heart of Texas will connect with 138 local employers and colleges to discover career pathways and help navigate their future. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/g9wxhVwR. The YES! Expo is organized by Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas in partnership with McLennan Community College, Education Service Center Region 12, Texas State Technical College, and KWTX News 10.

The Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas 2025 Impact Report is here, highlighting the results made possible through workforce services and community collaboration across our region. Inside, you’ll find real stories, key outcomes, and highlights from the work happening across the Heart of Texas. Explore the report to see what was achieved in 2025—and what we’re building together moving forward. Read now at https://lnkd.in/gRpDGGS3

According to the latest data from TexasLMI.com, the Heart of Texas regional unemployment rate was 3.7% in December 2025, down from 4.1% in November. The rate reflects 6,784 residents actively seeking work, with 1,048 continued unemployment claims filed during the month. Total employment for the region stood at 144,900 jobs, a decrease of 400 compared to the prior month. The Heart of Texas unemployment rate remains below the statewide rate (4.1%) and above the national rate (3.4%). Read More at https://lnkd.in/gKp_cuMq

Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas congratulates Knauf and Himes Service Company, Inc. on their recognition at the Texas Workforce Commission’s 28th Annual Texas Workforce Conference, held December 3–5 in Corpus Christi. Knauf was named a Large Employer of the Year runner-up finalist for its new fiberglass insulation facility in McGregor, which has created more than 160 new jobs and supports additional positions through local vendors and suppliers, while investing in employee training and workforce development. Himes Service Company, Inc. received the Texas Workforce Solutions Local Employer of Excellence Award for its longstanding role in the recycling and scrap industry, its support of local hiring and student welding internships, and its continued engagement in community initiatives across the Heart of Texas region.

📢 #TXEmployers: Level up your #Texas workforce with the Skills for Success program! 🚀 #TWC is accepting applications for this collaborative initiative with Texas State Technical College, designed to equip your employees with crucial skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and more. This program covers the cost of TSTC training courses for eligible employers. Improve employee performance, increase retention, and build a more adaptable team! ⭐ Learn more and apply today ➡️https://lnkd.in/gryDhaFT #TexasWorkforce #SkillsForSuccess #TexasJobs #SoftSkills #EmployeeDevelopment

Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas is proud to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)! This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” honors the contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workplace. Here's how disability inclusion benefits employers and the workplace: 🔹 Boost Innovation Diverse teams bring unique perspectives that drive creativity and problem-solving. 🔹 Strengthen Retention Inclusive workplaces foster loyalty and engagement, reducing turnover. 🔹 Enhance Reputation Customers and clients value companies that reflect inclusive values and practices. 🔹 Tap Into Skilled Talent Millions of capable individuals with disabilities are ready to contribute meaningfully to your workforce. Our Business Solutions team at Workforce Solutions can help strengthen your workforce with diversity and talent. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/g3VwZK4v Let’s celebrate the value and talent individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces, this month and every month. #NDEAM

Hydration Is Our Occupation, Make It Yours Too! #jobfair #wacotx #manufacturingjobs

Electrolit Manufacturing USA Inc. is coming to Waco, and is now hiring! Join their upcoming Hiring Event for walk-in interviews and to apply onsite for a number of openings: ✳️ Machine Operators ✳️ Operations Shift Leads ✳️ Warehouse Leads ✳️ Equipment Maintenance Coordinator ✳️ Factory Automation Specialist ✳️ Robotics Specialist ✳️ IT Systems Analyst ✳️ IT Manufacturing Lead ✳️ Maintenance Technicians ✳️ Inventory Coordinator ✳️ Warehouse Associates ✳️ Waste Water Treatment Plant Operator and more! When: Join the hiring event anytime between 10 AM and 3 PM on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025. Where: McLennan County Workforce Solutions Center located at 1416 S. New Road, Waco, TX 76711 Want to get a head start? Apply online today at https://emusa.com/careers/

🌟 Employer Spotlight: Chaparral Co. 🌟 Chaparral keeps our community’s buildings safe and efficient with expert Firestop and Insulation work on commercial and industrial projects. Now hiring: Firestop Installers, Insulators and more! Why consider Chaparral: team-based field work, training provided (no experience needed), and opportunities for career advancement. Ready to build your career? See all jobs and apply today: https://lnkd.in/g2Hzvg9Q