June 2025

 
Graphic for WSTC WORKS E-Newsletter which provides the latest workforce impact, labor market information and event updates from Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County. Features a graphic with different data images on a computer, clipboard, etc.
 

MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

A group photo of the 2025 AEL National Honors Society Inductees holding their certificates.

AEL Director, Jauneen Maldonado and Executive Director, Robert Sturns at the 2025 National Adult Education Honors Society Induction Ceremony.

A photo of the 2025 AEL graduates facing forward listening to the welcome remarks from WSTC Executive Director, Robert Sturns

The 2025 Tarrant County Adult Education & Literacy Consortium Graduation.

As our regional economy continues to evolve, staying informed is key. This edition of WSTC WORKS: E-Newsletter provides a snapshot of our Adult Education & Literacy Program. Whether you’re an employer, job seeker or community partner, we hope this newsletter helps you stay connected to the local workforce landscape.


Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) is important to us here in Tarrant County. We believe it's never too late to get an education and it is our mission to help you succeed.


This month we honored a group of courageous and determined adult learners who earned their High School Equivalency diplomas. For many of our graduates, the path to this achievement was anything but easy, marked by personal sacrifice, family responsibilities, economic hardship and learning barriers.


Yet, despite it all, they persevered. Balancing jobs, parenting and life’s daily demands, these individuals proved that resilience and grit can overcome any obstacle.


The AEL program is a powerful reminder that education is a lifelong journey. For our graduates, this moment marks the beginning of new opportunities: post-secondary education, career training and meaningful, self-sustaining employment.


We are incredibly proud of each graduate and grateful to the staff, families and supporters who played a role in their success.


Here’s to second chances, bold futures and the incredible things that happen when people believe in themselves.


Congratulations to the Class of 2025, your achievements are well deserved and a testament to the power of determination and education. This diploma is a powerful first step, but not the final destination.







Robert Sturns

Executive Director

Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County

photo of Robert Sturns, Executive Director, Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County
 

PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT

Learn more about the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) services in Tarrant County. Our program encourages adult learners to take advantage of educational opportunities to enhance skills and advance your career.


Whether you need a refresher in math, reading or writing, need to get your High School Equivalency (HSE) or just need to improve your English skills, we can help!


We don't stop there, AEL also offers career training courses that help our students get industry recognized credentials while working on their HSE or English skills. Our goal with all of our students is to meet them where they are and help them gain employment in a career pathway as quickly as possible. Learn more below and find out how to get started today by giving us a call at

(817) 402-7555.

Video which explains the Adult Education & Literacy Program

AEL DATA

Graphic which shows for the AEL program year: Total number of students served (4,671), GED Attainments including: 331 students passed at least 1 GED test and 167 students earned the GED credential, Providers of the AEL Program (Arlington Public Library, FWISD, Goodwill North Central Texas and Tarrant County College), Number of Credentials (364), Number of Instructors and Staff (218) and Number of Locations (63).
Pie Chart showing the number of Integrated Education and Training Completers for Program Year 24-25.

*Number of students that went into a training and completed by successfully passing their credential exam.

 
 

WORKFORCE WIN: 2025 AEL GRADUATION HIGHLIGHT VIDEO

It’s never too late to pursue your dreams. No matter your journey or the obstacles, education is always within reach. This video celebrates the incredible determination and resilience of individuals who earned their High School Equivalency through the Tarrant County Adult Education & Literacy Consortium.

Video which shows the highlights from the AEL Gradation, the video has captions.
 

EMPLOYER PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT:

AEL WORKPLACE LITERACY PROGRAM

Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County's Employer Services team plays a critical role in bridging the gap between employers and the skilled workforce they need to thrive. Providing comprehensive resources to help employers recruit, train and retain a skilled talent pipeline while addressing specific industry needs.


One specific program offered to local businesses in Tarrant County is the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) Workplace Literacy Program. This is a specialized program that focuses on enhancing essential competencies such as English language proficiency, reading, writing, math and digital literacy, all tailored to meet the specific needs of the employer.


Classes are conducted onsite at the employer’s location, minimizing barriers to participation, often while employees are on the clock. The curriculum is often customized to align with the company’s operational needs such as industry specific terminology, or job-related tasks. By offering classes customized to the specific needs of each business, AEL ensures that employees can effectively meet the demands of their role and contribute to workplace productivity.


The program provides qualified instructors and tailored curriculum at no cost to the employer, making it a cost-effective solution for improving workforce capabilities. Whether it’s enhancing communication skills for customer-facing roles or boosting technical competencies for operational positions, AEL classes deliver targeted learning opportunities that directly benefit both employees and their organizations. 


Tarrant County employers who have taken advantage of Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County's Workplace Literacy Program include:

  • Anton Cabinetry
  • Aquasana
  • Beauty Manufacturing
  • Empire Roofing
  • Flex-N-Gate
  • Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center
  • Hollingsworth LLC
  • JCPenney
  • Klein Tools
  • Loews Arlington Hotel & Convention Center
  • Live! by Loews
  • SE Homes
  • The Gund Company
  • Tyson Foods
  • UFP Industries.  


The partnership between the Employer Services and AEL teams exemplifies a commitment to empowering employees while driving business success. By leveraging AEL programs, businesses can enhance employee retention, boost morale and improve overall productivity, creating a win-win scenario for everyone involved.

 

UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS

Tarrant County Area Virtual Job Fair


Virtually interact and interview with employers who are hiring NOW! It’s time to make your next career move! This live event will take place on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 from 10:00am – 2:00pm. CST. After the live event has ended, you will still be able to view information about the employers that are hiring as well as express interest in job openings until Friday, August 15th at 5:00pm CST. To register CLICK HERE


FY 26 Budget Workshop


Board Members and Partners are invited to join our FY 26 Budget Workshop, presented on Friday, August 22, 2025 via Zoom. WSTC will provide an overview of projected funding and outline proposed program allocations. If you are interested in attending, please email info@workforcesoltions.net


Joint Workforce Development Board (WDB) & Workforce Governing Board (WGB) Meeting


The WDB and WGB will be having a Joint Board Meeting on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at Lena Pope Amon Carter Center. The meeting will begin at 9am. The agenda will include the FY 26 Budget and approval of Contracts. The agenda and other materials can be found on our website as they are available. CLICK HERE

TWC LABOR MARKET DATA

The Texas Workforce Commission has released the May 2025 Texas Labor Market Data, we have linked that information below. TWC also produces a brief video summarizing the latest changes in the Texas labor market. Click on the video below to learn more.


The Unemployment Rate for May 2025 for our area is:

  • Tarrant County: 3.7%
  • Arlington: 3.8%
  • Fort Worth: 3.8%
 
Promotional Graphic which gives the address on our website to sign up for alerts:  https://workforcesolutions.net/contact-us/#alerts. The graphic is green, white and black

Phone: 817-413-4000

Website: www.workforcesolutions.net

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