For job seekers, WSRCA offers an array of services and programs from experienced staff, also at no cost.
These include education and skills training, resume and interview support, job search support, child care assistance, veterans’ services and much more.
WSRCA is one of 28 nonprofit Workforce Development Boards across the state overseeing career centers and employer/employee services.
These boards work in partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission, elected officials, economic development entities, employers, school districts and colleges.
Some job seekers are veterans—considered highly qualified employees—but sometimes needing training for civilian occupations.
Through its partners and peer veterans on staff, WSRCA helps veterans with civilian employment, counseling, financial assistance, and education and training benefits.
Wilco has 18,304 veterans in the labor force.
For women, WSRCA is working with employers to increase the number of women in skilled trades and technology. They also sponsor a women’s entrepreneurship bootcamp.
Many women want to increase their earning potential to support their families, and WSRCA enables them to pursue educational opportunities to complete their degrees or earn industry recognized certifications for careers in high demand.
For qualifying families, financial aid for child care is available through federal, state and local funding. Child care providers who make the commitment to take part in the Texas Rising Star program are reimbursed at a higher rate, which they can reinvest in teacher training.
Kids who participate in early childhood programs that meet specific criteria tend to stay in school longer and find well-paying jobs as adults. These programs help break the poverty cycle.
Parents who receive early child care assistance generally earn $6,000 more annually because it provides them with consistent child care. This stability allows them to be more dependable employees because they won’t lose their earnings or jobs from absenteeism.
Legislation passed by the 86th Texas Legislature expanded pre-kindergarten for all 3- and 4-year-olds, but there are waiting lists and schools must find providers who can offer this early education.
Scholarships are also available for after school care until age 13, and for children with intellectual and/or physical disabilities, until age 19.
More partnerships with early childhood care and public education providers are needed.
Workers over 40 can take advantage of specialized career workshops. And 14- to 24-year-olds with disabilities learn valuable job skills working under the Summer Earn and Learn Program.
Job seekers with disabilities can benefit from vocational rehabilitation if they meet certain criteria.
In Wilco, 608 people with disabilities are enrolled in vocational rehabilitation training that prepares them to obtain, retain or advance in employment.
People with mental illness can also be eligible for services if they are stable or willing to follow a treatment plan with certified therapy.
On Aug. 16, 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the National Apprenticeship Act.
This law established the national apprenticeship system embodied in the goals and success of Workforce Solutions.