Veterans Employer Liaison (VEL) Christopher Garza and Rural Veteran Career Advisor (RVCA) Katie Baillio were awarded by the American Legion, Department of Texas for their outstanding effectiveness in getting veterans into jobs. Both are members of the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) Veterans Employment Services team. The awards were presented at the American Legion state convention in July.
Garza earned the American Legion’s LVER (Local Veterans’ Employment Representative) of the Year award. In his duties as a TVC VEL, Garza promotes the benefits of hiring veterans to employers and helps employers find qualified veterans for open job positions. Further, he works to create career fairs and hiring events. Garza serves in the South Texas District and is based in San Antonio.
Baillio earned the American Legion’s DVOP (Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialist) of the Year award. As a TVC RVCA, Baillio helps veterans in rural areas overcome barriers to employment. She provides job coaching, resume writing and job application assistance; plus, helps veterans sharpen their job search techniques and skills. Baillio serves the North Texas District and is based out of Denison.
Congratulations Christopher and Katie!
Pictured at center receiving their awards are Katie Baillio and Christopher Garza. With them in the photos are at left, American Legion State Commander Bret Watson; at right TVC Executive Director Thomas Palladino; and at back is Bob Gear, Texas Workforce Commission Director, Texas Veterans Leadership Program.
In addition to the LVER and DVOP of the Year awards, the American Legion Department of Texas presented the following awards:
- Homeless Veteran Outreach – The Warriors Refuge (West Columbia)
- Award to Enhance the Lives of Disabled Persons – Grace After Fire (Houston)
The Texas Veterans Commission is proud to support Grace After Fire with Fund for Veterans Assistance Grants. - Local Office Award: Workforce Solutions Permian Basin (Odessa)
Employer of Veterans Awards
- Small Employer – 5X5 Brewing Company (Mission)
Veteran Owned Business - Medium Employer – ShurMed EMS (San Antonio)
Veteran Owned Business - Large Employer – Berry Aviation (San Marcos)
Veterans throughout Texas can find the TVC Veteran Employment Services team in 90 locations across state including 70 American Job Centers. Find your local office.
TVC VES receives federal funding. For more information, visit Stevens Amendment.