Governor Greg Abbott has announced the launch of the 10th annual Texas HireAbility campaign, a partnership between the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities and the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The initiative aims to highlight the benefits of hiring 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.”
During October, TWC and its partners will organize job fairs and disability awareness events throughout Texas as part of Disability Employment Awareness Month. Employers are encouraged to participate in these events to learn how they can benefit from hiring individuals with disabilities.
This year also marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Governor Abbott recognized this milestone earlier this year through an official proclamation and has designated 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.”
“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,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “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.”
“Texas’ workforce is made stronger by tapping into the skills, talents, and contributions of Texans of all abilities,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “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 TWC operates a recognition program called We Hire Ability for businesses that employ at least 10% workers with disabilities. Recognized employers receive decals for both online media use and physical locations.
The annual Texas HireAbility Employer Forum is scheduled for October 2, 2025 at Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio. Speakers include Dr. Daniel Wendler as well as representatives from companies such as Toyotetsu, Accenture, Christus Alamo Heights Hospital, and Southwest Research Institute who will discuss best practices in disability inclusion. The event will also feature presentation of Lex Frieden Employment Awards honoring those committed to employing Texans with disabilities.
Information about upcoming hiring events or webinars related to this campaign is available at twc.texas.gov/texashireability.
TWC’s Vocational Rehabilitation program provides support for eligible Texans with disabilities seeking employment opportunities or advancement within integrated settings. Last year alone, more than 69,000 participants received assistance through this program while over 10,000 achieved their employment goals.
