Workforce Solutions for North Central Texas Celebrates 30 Years

Workforce Solutions for North Central Texas (WSNCT) celebrated its 30th Anniversary and Awards Luncheon on March 4th by recognizing five organizations whose work exemplifies the power of partnership in building a strong regional workforce across its 14-county service area. The event, underwritten by Gold Sponsors Career Team and Collin College, brought together employers, educators, civic leaders, and state and regional partners to reflect on three decades of impact and highlight innovative efforts shaping the next chapter of workforce development in North Central Texas.

The luncheon featured remarks from Joe Esparza, Chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission, Terry Zrubek, Deputy Executive Director of the Texas Office of Economic Development & Tourism, and Dr. Pia Orrenius, Vice President and Labor Economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.

“Today’s honorees show what it looks like when child care providers, schools, colleges, employers, and community leaders all pull in the same direction,” said Phedra Redifer, Executive Director of WSNCT. “Their work is helping families thrive, helping businesses grow, and helping our region stay competitive in a fast-changing economy.”

Bright Beginnings Award – Kiddie Klubhouse

Kiddie Klubhouse received the Bright Beginnings Award for its outstanding commitment to quality improvement and family engagement in early learning. As a Texas Rising Star provider, Kiddie Klubhouse has embedded family support into its daily operations and long-term planning.

The selection committee highlighted the center’s Daily Family Dinner program and inclusive communitywide events that create a welcoming environment and foster strong partnerships between educators and families. These efforts help ensure children experience consistent, high-quality care while parents are supported in their work and education goals.

Workforce Champion of the Year – Hill College

Hill College was honored as Workforce Champion of the Year for its exemplary support of workers and employers during a critical period of transition at a local business. When employees at the facility faced layoffs, Hill College stepped in to provide nearly 100 scholarships, giving affected workers a pathway to new skills and new opportunities.

The selection committee praised Hill College’s compassion, speed, and collaboration with regional partners, noting that its actions had a direct and positive impact on individuals, families, and businesses in Johnson County and surrounding communities.

Catalyst in Education Award – Region 10 ESC

The Catalyst in Education Award went to Region 10 Education Service Center for its leadership in connecting education to workforce development. Under the guidance of the Teaching and Learning Services team, Region 10 has pioneered strategies that align K–12, higher education, and industry partners around career readiness.

Region 10’s work includes expanding pathways that reach rural communities, equipping educators with tools to integrate career awareness into instruction, and helping students build the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing labor market. The selection committee noted that Region 10 has helped create a “dynamic ecosystem that transforms systems and lives” across the region.

Economic Development Excellence Award – Decatur ISD

Decatur Economic Development Corporation received the Economic Development Excellence Award for its innovative efforts to link education, workforce, and local economic growth. Decatur EDC has developed strong partnerships with local employers and neighboring school districts and launched a student internship program that creates a direct pipeline of talent for high-demand industries.

The internship initiative gives students real-world experience, helps employers cultivate future workers, and deepens collaboration between the school system and the business community. The selection committee cited Decatur EDC’s forward-thinking approach, commitment to employer engagement, and measurable outcomes as key reasons for the award.

Community Impact Award – Plano Mayor’s Summer Internship Program

The Plano Mayor’s Summer Internship Program was recognized with the Community Impact Award for its transformative approach to youth employment and civic engagement. The program connects Plano ISD high school students to paid summer internships that build career-readiness, leadership skills, and professional networks.

By uniting public, private, and nonprofit partners, the program has become a cornerstone of Plano’s talent pipeline and a model for how cities can expand equitable access to early work experiences. The selection committee praised the program for creating “lasting positive change in the community” and demonstrating how youth employment can drive long-term workforce outcomes.

“Each of these award winners represents a different part of the workforce system—from early childhood to higher education, from economic development to youth internships—but they share a common commitment to opening doors for people and strengthening our regional economy,” said Carlton Tidwell, Chair of the WSNCT Board. “We’re proud to recognize their leadership during our 30th anniversary year.”