Leaders from across the Gulf Coast gathered in Matagorda County this week for a collaborative event hosted by Bay City Chamber of Commerce, aimed at strengthening regional partnerships, expanding job opportunities, and aligning workforce strategies across Matagorda and Wharton counties.
The event, attended by elected officials, educators, economic development leaders, and workforce specialists, spotlighted the Gulf Coast Workforce Board’s (GCWFB) newly unveiled strategic plan and emphasized customized solutions for meeting the growing needs of local employers and job seekers.
Collaboration Across Counties to Meet Workforce Needs
Matagorda County Judge Bobby Seiferman opened the meeting with a welcome and invocation, followed by remarks from Mike Ferdinand, President of Matagorda County Economic Development Corporation, who outlined the goals of the gathering: to identify key challenges, build sustainable career pathways, and promote youth-focused workforce development.
Juliet Stipeche, Executive Director of the GCWFB, delivered a presentation on regional workforce initiatives and co-led a fireside chat with Ferdinand and local chamber leader Mitch Thames.
“In every corner of our region, collaboration is the key to unlocking potential,” said Stipeche. “As we introduced the Gulf Coast Workforce Board’s new strategic plan, we reaffirmed our focus on supporting both employers and residents — partnering with industry, education, and local communities to create meaningful opportunities, strengthen our economy, and prepare every part of our region to thrive.”
Local Impact, Regional Reach
The Board’s efforts span a 13-county Gulf Coast region, including Matagorda and Wharton counties, which have populations of 36,391 and 42,035 respectively. As of February 2025, the unemployment rate stands at 5.9% in Matagorda County and 4.5% in Wharton County—figures that underscore the urgency of effective workforce solutions.
The Gulf Coast Workforce Board supports:
- Over 47,000 people employed
- More than 38,000 employers served
- 24,800 youth and young adults connected with jobs and internships
- 55,500 children receiving subsidized childcare
- 16,000 adults supported through adult education and literacy programs
“We are excited to welcome the Gulf Coast Workforce Development Board to Matagorda County for this important event,” said Thames. “Their presence here reflects a strong commitment to supporting our local businesses and workforce. This is a valuable opportunity to connect our community with the resources, training, and support needed to help our economy thrive.”
Preparing Youth for High-Demand Jobs
One key focus of the discussion was on preparing youth for the future. LaToya Cassimere, Manager at Hire Gulf Coast Youth (HGCY), emphasized the Board’s work to connect young people with paid internships, career readiness programs, and financial literacy training.
“Today’s event in Matagorda was truly energizing,” Cassimere said. “There’s tremendous opportunity in this area, and it’s continuing to grow. I look forward to helping young people gain real work experience and build skills for the jobs of tomorrow.”
Pictures of the event.
Building a Stronger Gulf Coast
With a mission to help employers meet workforce needs and help individuals build careers, the Gulf Coast Workforce Board continues to serve as a vital resource in advancing regional economic development.
They offer a range of services to employers across the region, including:
- Access to pre-screened candidates through WorkInTexas.com
- Virtual and in-person hiring events
- Support in hiring veterans, individuals with disabilities, and justice-involved job seekers
- Tax credits and wage subsidies to reduce hiring costs
- Partnerships with schools and training providers to develop talent pipelines
“This is the power of working together,” said Stipeche. “And this is how we build a stronger Gulf Coast.”
For more information on workforce programs, hiring solutions, and youth opportunities, visit Workforce Solutions.
