Marshall Economic Development Continues the WE Align Initiative to Strengthen Workforce and Education Connections

Marshall, TX – Marshall Economic Development (MED) proudly announces the continued growth of WE Align (Workforce and Education Alignment Group); a community-driven initiative launched in 2021 to bridge the gap between education and industry in Marshall, Texas.

The purpose of WE Align is simple yet vital: to strengthen communication between local businesses and educators, ensuring that students are learning the skills employers need. By connecting the “supply” of education with the “demand” of industry, WE Align helps businesses build sustainable talent pipelines while preparing students for real-world success.

“A thriving economy depends on intentional collaboration,” said Rush Harris CEcD, Executive Director of MED. “WE Align ensures our local schools and employers are working hand-in-hand to prepare a workforce that meets today’s needs and tomorrow’s opportunities.”

WE Align Council

Formed in 2024, the WE Align Council plays a key role in guiding workforce investments within Marshall. Council members advocate, vote, and advise on the strategic use of workforce resources, often partnering with local colleges and universities to strengthen pathways for students.

Council members include:

• Charlotte Leon (Marshall ISD)
• Scott McCurdy (ETBU)
• Bart Day (TSTC)
• Tashia Bradley (Wiley University)
• Laura Wood (Panola College)
• Rush Harris (Marshall Economic Development)
• Stefan Matis (Matis Productions)
• Laura Trejo (The Glam Room)
• Renee Oswalt (Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas)

Broad Community Partnership

The strength of WE Align lies in its partnerships. Dozens of local businesses, institutions, and organizations support this effort, including Republic Elite, The City of Marshall, Harrison County, Harrison County Ag-Extension, Thumper Fab, 1st National Bank of Hugh Springs- Marshall, AACC, George Washington Carver Community Center (GWCCC),

Marshall Greater Chamber of Commerce, Longview EDC, Marshall Economic Development, Workforce Solutions East Texas, T G Mullins Consulting, Tatum EDC, Texas Workforce Commission, Century 21, ETBU, Marshall ISD, Panola College, Region 7 ESC, TSTC, Wiley University, CV Bookkeeping Services, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, CHRISTUS Good Shepard, Community Healthcore, Eastman, Komatsu, Prysmian, Matis Productions, & The Glam Room.

Building Marshall’s Future Workforce

WE Align is not just a program—it’s a commitment to Marshall’s long-term prosperity. By fostering collaboration between educators and employers, MED is ensuring that students graduate with the skills they need, businesses have access to a qualified workforce, and the community thrives.

For more information on WE Align, visit www.marshalledc.org/workforce/we-align