Governor Greg Abbott has announced that the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities will join with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) for the 10th annual Texas HireAbility campaign. The initiative aims to highlight the advantages of employing people with disabilities and their contributions in workplaces across Texas.
“Every October, we honor the nearly two million Texans with disabilities who strengthen our workforce and make our state great,” said Governor Abbott. “In Texas, we open the doors of opportunity for all people. Because when everyone has the chance to work and succeed, our state succeeds. Only in Texas can a young man have his back broken in half and rise up to become Governor of the greatest state in the nation. Through the HireAbility campaign and Disability Employee Awareness Month, we are building a Texas where every Texan can achieve their dreams.”
Throughout October, TWC and its partners plan to host job fairs and disability awareness events statewide as part of Disability Employment Awareness Month. The campaign is designed to give employers information on how hiring individuals with disabilities can enhance their organizations.
This year also marks 35 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted. Governor Abbott recognized this milestone earlier in 2025 through an official proclamation. He also issued another proclamation declaring October 2025 as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Texas.
“Many of Texas’ most successful employers proudly make disability inclusion a priority in the workplace, and we want to encourage all businesses to leverage this talent pipeline,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “Through initiatives like Texas HireAbility and We Hire Ability, TWC celebrates the accomplishments of people with disabilities and remains committed to providing pathways for people with disabilities to enjoy meaningful employment.”
TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III added, “Texas HireAbility isn’t just about filling jobs; it’s about unlocking the immense potential and diverse skills that people with disabilities bring to our workplaces. Every Texan deserves the opportunity to contribute their talents, and this campaign helps break down barriers and build a stronger, more equitable workforce for all.”
TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett stated, “Texas’ workforce is made stronger by tapping into the skills, talents, and contributions of Texans of all abilities. I am honored to join the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities in celebrating the 10th anniversary of Texas HireAbility. TWC is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities and enabling employers to succeed in the Texas economy, during this campaign and always.”
The We Hire Ability employer recognition program from TWC acknowledges businesses where at least 10% of employees have disabilities by awarding them a special decal for both online media use and physical display.
On October 2, 2025, Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio will host the Texas HireAbility Employer Forum featuring speakers such as Dr. Daniel Wendler along with companies known for promoting disability inclusion including Toyotetsu, Accenture, Christus Alamo Heights Hospital, and Southwest Research Institute. The forum will include presentations on best practices as well as distribution of Lex Frieden Employment Awards recognizing commitment toward employing Texans with disabilities.
For those interested in participating or learning more about upcoming hiring events or webinars related to Texas HireAbility, further details are available at twc.texas.gov/texashireability.
Additionally, last year over 69,000 individuals took part in TWC’s Vocational Rehabilitation program—more than 10,000 Texans with disabilities secured employment goals through these services.
