Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County celebrates FY25 during their State of the Workforce Address
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Lacey Douglas, Workforce Solutions
Phone: 817.823.0533 / Email: [email protected]
Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County celebrates FY25 during their State of the Workforce Address
TARRANT COUNTY, Texas (February 11, 2026) – Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County (WSTC) recognized the partners, employers and programs who contributed to the successful service delivery in Tarrant County over Fiscal Year 2025. This was done during the organizations first ever State of the Workforce Address lead by Robert Sturns, Executive Director, held as part of the Joint Meeting of the Workforce Development and Workforce Governing Board on February 11, 2026. The information presented provided a clear, transparent look at the organizations results and the direction WSTC is headed in the year ahead.
Mr. Sturns acknowledged the organizations and individuals who were selected as recipients of the WSTC Annual Awards. This year WSTC visited each award recipient at their place of business to present the award in person and capture photos to celebrate the impact on Tarrant County’s Workforce. The photos were featured in the State of the Workforce Address. One of the awards was also presented live during the meeting on February 11th.
During the State of the Workforce Address, Mr. Sturns also unveiled WSTC’s FY25 Annual Report, which shows how the outcomes of the programs WSTC runs translate into real results for employers, job seekers and the local economy. The Annual Report is now available on the WSTC website and can be accessed here.
“We are excited to showcase the impact our work has had on Tarrant County. I am extremely proud of our staff and the work we accomplished with our partners over the past year. I am looking forward to continuing to build a workforce ecosystem rooted in innovation, accountability and service, creating a sustainable economic opportunity for all,” said Robert Sturns, Executive Director, Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County.
The audience also heard the latest information impacting the county from our elected officials, including Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare, Arlington Mayor Jim Ross and Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker.
Award winner information can be found below. Photos from the Award Presentations and Board Meeting can be found here.
Large Employer of the Year/ Employer Award of Excellence
Loews Arlington Hotel & Convention Center earned both the Employer Award of Excellence and the Large Employer of the Year Award in recognition of its exceptional impact on workforce development and community engagement in Tarrant County. A cornerstone of Arlington’s entertainment district, the hotel has quickly become a leading workforce partner through service on the local board, inclusive hiring practices, internship programs, on-site Adult Education and Literacy services and strong collaboration with secondary and postsecondary institutions. By strategically investing in its workforce and supporting community-focused initiatives, Loews Arlington demonstrates how a large employer can drive regional economic growth while creating meaningful career pathways for local talent.
Small Employer of the Year
Nerdworks Services, LLC received the Small Employer of the Year Award for its outstanding impact on workforce development and commitment to creating career pathways in the high-demand IT sector. Since 2023, the Tarrant County–based company, led by owner Craig Lekis, has been a proactive partner in developing local talent through paid internships, teacher externships and direct recruitment efforts that provide hands-on training and real-world career exposure. Nerdworks has helped interns transition into permanent roles while also mentoring adult and dislocated workers pursuing new careers in technology. By bridging skills gaps, supporting credential attainment, and connecting job seekers to sustainable employment, Nerdworks exemplifies how small businesses can drive meaningful economic and workforce growth in their communities.
All-Star College of the Year
Tarrant County College (TCC) earned the All-Star College of the Year Award for its leadership in delivering innovative, employer-driven training that strengthens the Texas workforce and addresses critical skills gaps. A regional leader in workforce development, TCC aligns record enrollment growth, industry partnerships, and nationally recognized certifications to meet business needs and prepare students for high-demand careers. In partnership with Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County, TCC supported 630 employees through a Skills Development Fund grant and served 802 individuals through Adult Education and Literacy programs in 2024. With enrollment up 8% year over year to 46,681 students — including 12,500 dual-credit learners. TCC continues to expand the local talent pipeline and drive economic growth.
HireAbility Employer of the Year
Sodexo at TCU received the HireAbility Employer of the Year Award for its strong commitment to advancing employment opportunities for Texans with disabilities and fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Through an eight-year partnership with the Dallas–Fort Worth Bridges program, Sodexo has provided students with disabilities meaningful work experience at Texas Christian University, creating pathways to competitive integrated employment. This collaboration has led to more than 40 Bridges participants being hired at the TCU location, with 16 individuals currently employed — demonstrating Sodexo’s lasting impact in building an inclusive workforce and strengthening the community talent pipeline.
Scholar of the Year (2 awards given)
Rhiannon Hart was named Scholar of the Year in recognition of her exceptional perseverance, leadership, and dedication in the Adult Education and Literacy program. Despite the challenges of a brain injury and learning disability, she remained determined to succeed, reconnecting with key concepts through months of focused effort and ultimately earning her High School Equivalency credential. Beyond her own achievement, Rhiannon has been a source of encouragement and support for her classmates, helping peers understand assignments and motivating them to continue their education. Her leadership also extends into the community through volunteer service with senior citizens. Balancing work and school, she exemplifies resilience, advocacy, and the transformative power of lifelong learning.
Thy Dang Thein Vu was recognized as Scholar of the Year for her outstanding dedication, perseverance, and leadership in the Adult Education and Literacy program. An immigrant from Vietnam and English language learner, she strengthened her skills by attending both HSE and ESL classes while working full time as a seamstress, maintaining exceptional attendance four nights a week. Her determination to improve her future, paired with her willingness to mentor classmates and model persistence, punctuality, and kindness, has made her a natural leader in the classroom. Thy’s commitment to learning and support of her peers exemplify the transformative impact of adult education and make her a truly deserving honoree.
Veteran-Friendly Employer of the Year
Martin-Baker America, Inc. received the Veteran-Friendly Employer of the Year Award for its strong commitment to recruiting, hiring, and supporting veterans while advancing mission-critical aerospace safety. Based in Fort Worth, the company plays a vital role supporting the F-35 program and continues its global legacy of protecting aircrew, having helped save more than 7,420 lives through its ejection seat technology. Veterans make up more than 19% of its workforce nationwide and 100% of its Fort Worth field office, reflecting a deep dedication to those who have served. Through investment in employee growth, leadership development, and continuous improvement, Martin-Baker America fosters a workplace where veterans and all employees can thrive while contributing to life-saving innovation.
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About Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County
Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County (WSTC), under the direction of the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), is one of 28 local workforce development boards located throughout the state. WSTC’s primary goal is to meet the needs of Tarrant County employers and workers through locally designed market-driven workforce development initiatives and services. All employers, workers and job seekers are eligible to take advantage of these services. The 29-member Workforce Development Board (WDB) is made up of business and community leaders and is chaired by Rosa Navejar, President of the Rios Group. The WDB works in partnership with the Workforce Governing Board (WGB), which is composed of Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, Arlington Mayor Jim Ross and chaired by Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare, to oversee Workforce services in Tarrant County. More information can be found at www.workforcesolutions.net or by calling 817.413.4000.
