Houston hiring: Thousands of job seekers attend networking event to help veteran job seekers

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Workforce Solutions is back in a big way for its annual veteran hiring event, and for some military personnel, the timing couldn’t be better.

Jacob Lopez was one of at least 3,000 who attended the hiring event, Hiring Red, White and you!

He was in his army uniform and said he felt confident in it.

“I’m proud that everyone stops me and says, ‘Thank you for your service.’ It means something to me,” Lopez explained.

It’s something special because Lopez knows what it means to serve.

“My grandfather,” said Lopez. “He was an army veteran. It means something to follow in his footsteps.”

Lopez served in the reserve for two years. After helping his country, he is now in need.

“I was fired by my employer yesterday,” Lopez explained. “That means it was even an option.”

This is Workforce Solutions’ 13th annual job fair, this year focusing on veterans.

Not only employers, but also various veteran services were represented at it. One of them is Texas Veterans Commission.

Joseph Sullivan is a career advisor who works at the agency’s desk. He knows what it’s like to be a veteran on the other side looking for work.

“Oh, it was hard,” Sullivan recalled. His advice to others is not to be afraid to ask for help.

“When they have a career or get a job, that means I’ve done something successful,” Sullivan said.

Texas Veterans Network helped attract employers and services to the event. Organizers said if you can’t come, the best thing you can do is reach out.

“We are a unique breed,” explained Texas Veterans Network Regional Manager John Smith. “There’s nothing wrong with that, but stay connected to your community.”

Recent report of the governor shows that Texas has 1.5 million veterans. Harris County has the second highest amount.

Group Texas Workforce Commission data show that they have difficulty finding work. The number of unemployed among veterans for the last two years is almost five percent.

For non-veterinarians – 4%. Overall, the latest October jobs report wasn’t great for new jobs.

It showed 12,000 jobs were added last month. This is the lowest figure since then December 2020.

Local employment experts said employers are hiring in our area.

“People need to know that there are many employers in our community who are looking for talent,” said Workforce Solutions Executive Director Juliet Stipeche.

If you’re looking for a job, Stipeche advises to start by selling yourself.

“People need to be able to review their resume,” Stipecze explained. “Updating it and making sure that sometimes people forget to post certifications, trainings and other opportunities.”

Whether you’re a veteran or not, you can always get help with your resume Solutions for the workforce arrangement.

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