Austin, TX – The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) announced today that it is partnering with the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities for the 11th annual Texas HireAbility campaign. The statewide effort, highlighted by a proclamation from Governor Greg Abbott designating October 2026 as Disability Employment Awareness Month, aims to raise awareness of the benefits of hiring Texans with disabilities.
Governor Abbott Calls October “Our Month” for Disability Employment
“October is our month to honor the nearly two million Texans with disabilities in our workforce,” Governor Abbott said. “Texas is open to all who want to work and succeed. Their success is Texas success. HireAbility and Disability Employment Awareness Month exist so every Texan can reach their dreams.”
Job Fairs and Employer Resources Across the State
Throughout October, TWC and its partners will host job fairs and disability‑awareness events in cities and towns across Texas. The campaign gives employers a chance to learn how hiring talented Texans with disabilities can strengthen their workforce and improve competitiveness.
“Texans with disabilities bring valuable skills and experience to the workplace, and employers benefit when they tap into this highly motivated talent pipeline,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “Through our Vocational Rehabilitation Services and Texas HireAbility Campaign, TWC helps employers offer meaningful employment to Texans with disabilities—more than 700,000 of whom hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.”
Recognition Program Encourages Inclusive Hiring
The TWC’s “We Hire Ability” employer recognition program honors Texas‑based businesses that employ at least 10% of workers with disabilities. Honored firms receive a “We Hire Ability” decal for use in online media and on physical locations, signaling their commitment to an inclusive workforce.
“Innovation in the workplace thrives when we embrace a diverse range of perspectives and abilities,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “The Texas HireAbility campaign is a vital tool for employers to discover new talent and build teams that reflect the true strength and ingenuity of the Lone Star State.”
Upcoming Employer Forum and Awards
The Texas HireAbility Employer Forum is scheduled for Oct. 21 at the Collin College – McKinney Campus Conference Center. Presenters will include Isaac Shapiro, Co‑CEO and President of Clean Logic, as well as representatives from Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, the City of Fort Worth and CVS. The event will also feature the Lex Frieden Employment Awards, presented by the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities, which recognize individuals and businesses that demonstrate outstanding commitment to hiring and supporting Texans with disabilities.
“When TWC resources enable employers to access the talent of all Texans, the entire state wins,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “The 11th annual Texas HireAbility campaign provides the perfect opportunity for businesses of all sizes to collaborate with TWC, hire from a motivated talent pool, and secure the dependable workers needed to gain a competitive edge.”
Impact and Resources
TWC’s Vocational Rehabilitation program assists eligible Texans with disabilities in preparing for, obtaining, keeping, and advancing in competitive integrated employment. Last year the agency served more than 71,000 participants and helped over 10,000 Texans with disabilities achieve their employment goals.
Employers and job seekers can find a list of upcoming Texas HireAbility events and webinars at twc.texas.gov/texashireability.
Original reporting: Focus Daily News — read the source article.
