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Workforce Solutions Panhandle

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News

Local Unemployment Rate Improves Again

September 18, 2020 by Ben Glover

Trending Down

Local unemployment rates continue decreasing according to the newest release of Texas Labor Market Information.

In May of this year the unemployment rate (unadjusted) was 8.5. Three months later, the reported unemployment rate is 4.2. This is no small feat.

A Reflection of Our Community

The unemployment rate is down, but this trend reveals more than an encouraging graph. These numbers reflect the hard work of families, leaders, employers, employees, and dedicated individuals in our area.

As Amarillo’s Mayor Ginger Nelson said “our grit and determination is showing, and we are recovering.”

Still in Need

According to the newest data, the Amarillo MSA unemployment rate is still higher than what the community saw at this time last year (2.7). Of course, In August of 2019 we were not facing COVID-19 and its accompanying issues. However, there are still 5000+ individuals that are unemployed in this area alone. Each individual and his or her family are facing unique circumstances and struggles. So It is important to remember that many individuals and families are facing new challenges and uncertain times.

Reach Out

If you or someone you know is unemployed or is struggling due to COVID-19 please look at the resources available here on this website or reach out to us today.

Call: (806) 372-5521

Our staff can help connect you to programs you might not be aware of or provide information about local employment opportunities and available resources.

Contact Us

If you have questions about how Workforce Solutions Panhandle can assist you or your business, contact our friendly staff today at (806) 372-5521 or reach out below!

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Filed Under: News

Join a Virtual Workshops

September 10, 2020 by Ben Glover

Workforce Solutions Panhandle offers virtual workshops every week.

“Why should I attend?“

Great question! You can join us to:

  • learn more about a certain job search subject
  • ask questions specific to the Panhandle Area job market
  • or to get the encouragement to keep pushing forward in your job search efforts

“Are the workshops helpful?”

Absolutely. Our team has worked hard to bring you a virtual workshop that helps answer questions you may have and provide you with helpful information that you can use in your job search. In fact, workshops are a great chance to talk face-to-face (virtually) with one of our team members to discuss programs and services that you can use.

“What does it cost?”

Not a thing! Some people may be hesitant to join an online workshop, because they don’t want someone to try to sell them something. Our services are free of charge. When you join any of our workshops our staff are there to help you succeed.

“How does it work?”

Our workshops are hosted virtually over Zoom. You can sign-up, and then get an email with a link to the workshop. If your workshop is still a few days away the team member hosting your workshop will reach out to you directly to remind you about the workshop and to give you the link one more time.

Our Virtual Workshops Are Made for You!

You might have just started your job search efforts or maybe you’ve been searching for awhile now, either way our Workshops Team wants to see you succeed. In addition to the workshop content, The instructor will be happy to provide you with more information on programs and services that can be offered to you through Workforce Solutions.

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sign-up for a virtual workshop

Filed Under: News

Training for Success

August 12, 2020 by Ben Glover

Training

Each student in Amarillo College’s most recent commercial driver’s license training class is participating in Workforce Solutions Panhandle’s Job Training Services Program.

By participating in the program, each student has received funding to help cover the cost of their training.

Amarillo College’s truck driving course prepares students to complete the written exams and the driving exam necessary to receive a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with all endorsements.

Interested?

Workforce Solutions Panhandle can provide funds, so you can gain training for a locally in-demand job. Applicants must qualify for Job Training Services before beginning the program.

Do you qualify?

Our team will need to look at your current circumstances to know if you qualify. If you are unemployed or underemployed and need additional training to increase your earning potential please contact us today.

I’m not unemployed or underemployed

Please don’t hesitate to apply. If you believe you are in need of Job Training Services, you can fill out an application and our team would be happy to review what options can be offered.

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Apply Today!

Apply now for Job Training services

Filed Under: News

2020 Youth Opportunities

August 5, 2020 by Ben Glover

Youth Services

High school seniors, college freshman, and most young people are faced with a not-so-normal year ahead of them. Most young people may not have had the chance to work a normal summer job this year. Most amusement parks, malls, and sporting events were closed or very limited and so potential opportunities may seem dismal at the moment.

We can help!

Workforce Solutions Panhandle’s Youth Services team is here to help!

Youth services focuses on assisting youth with one or more barriers to employment. Our team can help prepare youth for post-secondary education and employment opportunities, attain educational and/or skills training credentials, and secure employment.

Should You Apply?

If you or someone you know might benefit from the Youth Services team here at Workforce Solutions Panhandle click the button below to visit the Job Training Services page and learn more.

Job training services

or contact one of our Youth Services team members below!

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Youth Services Team

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Cory Patt

Career Specialist – Youth
Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Cory Patt
Career Specialist – Youth Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Direct Phone Number806-350-1622
Email Cory Patt

Helene Torrez

Career Specialist – Youth
Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Helene Torrez
Career Specialist – Youth Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Direct Phone Number806-350-1612
Email Helene Torrez
Jennifer Galloway

Jennifer Galloway

Program Manager – WIOA Youth
Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Jennifer Galloway
Program Manager – WIOA Youth Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Direct Phone Number806-350-1619
Email Jennifer Galloway
Gloria Marez

Gloria Marez

Career Specialist – Youth
Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Gloria Marez
Career Specialist – Youth Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Direct Phone Number806-350-1640
Email Gloria Marez

Tammie Chance

Career Specialist – Youth
Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Tammie Chance
Career Specialist – Youth Workforce Solutions Panhandle
Direct Phone Number806-350-1604
Email Tammie Chance

Filed Under: News

Appointments, Curbside, and Virtual Services

July 22, 2020 by Ben Glover

“Is Workforce Solutions Panhandle open?”

Yes! Workforce Solutions Panhandle has continued providing services to the Texas Panhandle and we encourage anyone that needs to use our services to reach out. We are happy to say that all Workforce Solutions Panhandle offices are open by appointment for our customers.

“What’s changed?”

Workforce Solutions Panhandle like so many other businesses and organizations has been adapting to recent changes. Beginning in the initial weeks of 2020 the new Workforce Solutions Panhandle website and secure portal were launched. These new tools allowed customers to begin submitting applications, needed documentation and other necessary information to enroll in or fulfill the needs of various programs. As the Panhandle community began to respond to COVID-19 Workforce Solutions Panhandle moved to offer all services virtually via the new secure portal and telephone services. Today Workforce Solutions Panhandle offers an easy to use online booking software to schedule appointments as well as curbside services for various customer needs.

Amarillo, Borger, and Hereford offices offering in-person appointments

Our three Workforce Solutions Panhandle offices have reopened for appointments and customers who need available resources are encouraged to schedule an appointment through wspanhandle.com.

Click to Schedule an appointment
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Filed Under: News Tagged With: appointments, COVID-19

No Cost Training for Unemployed Individuals

July 21, 2020 by Ben Glover

Workforce Solutions Panhandle has begun taking applications for New Skills Now.

“What is New Skills Now?”

New Skills Now is a program from Workforce Solutions Panhandle that provides training at no cost to individuals and businesses.

“What kind of training?”

Currently, classes are available in Microsoft, Accounting, Project Management, CNA, Forklift Certification, CDL, Leadership Mastery, and more. Plus, new classes will be added as approval is granted. The training offered includes online and in-person short courses from both local community colleges and training providers.

“Who qualifies?”

Individuals and businesses can qualify to receive training at no cost. To qualify, individuals in the Texas Panhandle must be currently receiving unemployment or recently exhausted their benefits and employers are encouraged to request customized training to fit their workforce needs.

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“We are proud to continue partnering with the Texas Workforce Commission, the Panhandle Regional Planning Commission, as well as our local colleges and training providers to offer no-cost, high-value training to our community,” said Trent Morris, Center Director for Workforce Solutions Panhandle.

Apply for NEw skills now

For those who are currently unemployed and wish to apply for training, visit the New Skills Now page on Workforce Solutions Panhandle’s website. If you are an employer and are interested in training your existing workforce, please contact Workforce Solutions Panhandle’s Business Services Unit at (806) 345-1341.

Filed Under: News

Unemployment Rates Decrease

July 20, 2020 by Ben Glover

Unemployment Rates

Local unemployment rates decreased according to the newest release of Texas Labor Market Information. The unemployment rate in the Amarillo MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) is currently 6.0%. This shift is a significant improvement when compared to the 8.5% unemployment rate seen just one month before (not seasonally adjusted). Across the Panhandle Area the unemployment rate has declined from 7.8% to 6.0% not (seasonally adjusted) in a single month. The unemployment rate decline signals possible economic improvement.

Unemployed?

While unemployment rates might be dropping, many individuals are still in need of employment. Workforce Solutions Panhandle resources are intended to help you find employment. Below are a few options available to you.

Jobs – Local employers and Workforce Solutions Panhandle are working together to hire for available job openings. If you are searching for a job call: (806) 372-5521 ext. 2.

Training – Fill out your Job Training Services applications today! To view available training programs and to fill out an online application today click the button below.

Apply for job training services

Other – We are here to help. If you have other needs or further questions don’t hesitate to contact us using the information below.

Contact Us

If you have questions about how Workforce Solutions Panhandle can assist you or your business, contact our friendly staff today at (806) 372-5521 or reach out below!

Email Us

We would like the opportunity to share with you everything that we have to offer. Please take a moment to give us your name, zip code, and preferred method of contact so one of our Specialists can contact you. We look forward to hearing from you!
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Filed Under: News Tagged With: June 2020, News, Unemployment Rates

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