October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to recognize the talents people with disabilities bring to the workforce and the services that help them find and keep jobs. At the Workforce Solutions Northline office in Houston, job seekers can connect with free Vocational Rehabilitation services through a partnership between the Texas Workforce Commission and Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast.
Juliet Stipeche, Executive Director of the Gulf Coast Workforce Board, said the collaboration brings important resources directly to the community.
“These resources are provided by the state of Texas through a unique collaboration between TWC Vocational Rehabilitation and Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast,” Stipeche said. “Right here in our Northline office, we’re fortunate to have both Vocational Rehabilitation and the Texas Veterans Commission available. These services are free to the community.”
Support for People of All Abilities
Vocational Rehabilitation, or VR, serves people with disabilities who need help finding employment, getting training or adjusting to changes in their lives. Stipeche said the services can help someone facing a new challenge, such as losing their sight later in life, receive guidance and connect with employers looking to hire people with disabilities.
“We want to make sure people are aware of the unique talents and abilities that people of all abilities have, and VR is here to serve our community in that respect,” she said.
A Plan Built Around Each Person
Julia Jones, a VR counselor and a veteran, said every customer starts with an individualized plan based on their goals and skills.
“We sit down with them, determine what their employment goals are, and look at the skills they have,” Jones said. “We do a comprehensive assessment, and then we set individualized goals together.”
Those goals can be supported by vocational training, career exploration and job placement. VR serves adults of all ages, starting at 18, and Jones said her own experience as a veteran helps her guide other veterans through the process.
“I think it helps with navigating the VA system and the TWC system. That’s very important,” she said. Her advice for veterans: “Definitely use both services.”
Focusing on Strengths
Antonio, a VR counselor and veteran, said the program uses training, assessments and planning to place each customer in the right position. He said veterans bring work ethic, dedication and a desire to work.
“Everybody brings their own unique skill set, their own toolbox,” he said. “It’s up to us to focus more on strengths than weaknesses. Weaknesses we can improve on, but I’d rather hone in on your strengths.”
How to Apply for VR Services
Job seekers interested in VR services can visit any Workforce Solutions office in the Gulf Coast region or apply online through Start My VR, the Texas Workforce Commission’s online self-referral form.
“They can go to any local office, or they can type ‘Start My VR’ into any search engine, and it’ll come right up,” Antonio said.
Hiring Red, White & You! Is Coming Nov. 3
Veterans can also connect with employers at Hiring Red, White & You!, Workforce Solutions’ annual hiring event for veterans, on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at Reliant Center in Houston.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with more than 100 employers who are seeking and prioritizing veterans,” Stipeche said.
Event Details
- Date: Tuesday, November 3, 2026
- Location: Reliant Center, 1 Fannin St., Houston, TX 77054
- Cost: Free to attend
- Register: Attend Hiring Red, White & You!
Schedule:
- 9–9:30 a.m.: Opening Ceremony
- 9:30–10:30 a.m.: Priority Service Hour for veterans
- 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m.: Open to the Public
Join us at Hiring Red, White & You! on November 3 and take the next step in your career.
Explore in-demand careers and connect with top employers at upcoming Workforce Solutions hiring events. Register today to secure your spot and access career-building resources.
