Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas 2024 Employers of the Year
Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas is proud to announce the recipients of its 2024 Employer of the Year Awards, recognizing three exceptional companies for their contributions to the local economy, workforce development, and community engagement. The award winners for this year include: Grocery Supply Company Enterprises, Universal Fabricating USA, and Little Texans Learning Center.
GSC Enterprises – Large Employer of the Year
Founded in 1947 in Mount Vernon, Texas, and headquartered in Sulphur Springs since 1953, GSC Enterprises has become one of the top distributors for convenience stores across the Midwest and Southern United States. The company employs 763 people and plays a vital role in both the local and regional economy. GSC Enterprises significant impact includes a strong commitment to workforce development, offering onsite certifications and tuition assistance for employees, as well as a Benevolence Fund to support workers in times of crisis.
GSC is also deeply involved in the Sulphur Springs community, volunteering time for meal services and educational programs while sponsoring numerous local organizations, including United Way, FFA, and the Chamber of Commerce. Notably, GSC Enterprises held its 35th annual GSC Charity Golf Classic in October 2023, raising $90,000 for six local charities, including the Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center and Morgan’s Mercy Mansion.
GSC’s partnership with Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas has been invaluable, as the company has participated in the Board’s teacher externship program and numerous career exploration events, such as Learning Endorsements and Professions (LEAP) Expo and the Financial Literacy for Youth (FLY) program.
Universal Fabricating USA – Small Employer of the Year
Universal Fabricating USA made its mark in Lamar County in 2023, with the acquisition of an existing manufacturing facility and a $15 million capital investment. Specializing in the development and installation of greenhouse structures and manufacturing automation equipment for various industries, Universal Fabricating has created 60 new jobs and is projected to add another 40 over the next 10 years. The company’s expansion is expected to contribute over $300 million to the local economy.
Universal Fabricating’s success is largely due to its employee-focused programs, which include hands-on training with cutting-edge technology and internal succession planning to help employees advance their careers. The company is a key partner of Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas, participating in hiring events, utilizing the WorkInTexas.com platform for recruitment, and collaborating on on-the-job training initiatives.
Little Texans Learning Center – Local Employer of Excellence
Little Texans Learning Center, established in 1992 in Sulphur Springs, has long been a cornerstone of quality child care in the region. With 37 years of experience and 25 years at Little Texans, Director Remona Hynson leads the center with a focus on supporting her staff, recognizing their strengths, and ensuring a collaborative and positive work environment. Under her leadership, Little Texans has earned the Texas Rising Star designation for six consecutive years and has been voted the best daycare in Hopkins County every year during that time.
The center’s commitment to quality is reflected in its participation in the Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas quality improvement plans, which have supported curriculum upgrades and improvements to learning materials and outdoor activities. Little Texans Learning Center is an exemplary provider of child care and a valued employer in the Northeast Texas community.
“We are honored to recognize this year’s outstanding employer award winners, whose commitment to workforce development is making a lasting impact on our community and economy. These businesses have demonstrated exceptional leadership in training, upskilling, and creating opportunities for workers, ensuring a thriving and competitive workforce. Strong partnerships between employers, educators, and workforce development organizations are the foundation of a thriving workforce system. We celebrate these partnerships and the employers who go above and beyond to invest in people, innovation, and economic growth,” said Executive Director of Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas Bart Spivey.
For more information about Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas services, visit www.netxworkforce.org.
