Yoakum is dedicated to serving local businesses by providing opportunities to attract and retain a strong local workforce with Yoakum ISD, and higher education opportunities near Yoakum.
Skilled and Diverse Workforce
Yoakum boasts a skilled and diverse workforce, with individuals possessing a wide range of talents, skills, and expertise across various industries. From manufacturing and agriculture to healthcare and professional services, Yoakum’s workforce offers the knowledge and capabilities needed to support diverse businesses and industries.
Job Training and Placement
The YEDC may facilitates job training and placement programs to match individuals with employment opportunities in Yoakum’s growing industries. By connecting job seekers with businesses in need of talent, the YEDC helps support local businesses while providing meaningful employment opportunities for residents.
Business Support Services
In addition to workforce development, the YEDC offers business support services to help companies attract, retain, and develop their workforce. This includes assistance with recruitment, training programs, workforce analytics, and access to resources and incentives aimed at supporting businesses’ human capital needs.
Workforce Development Initiatives
The YEDC collaborates with local educational institutions, workforce development agencies, and businesses to support workforce development initiatives. These initiatives may include training programs, apprenticeships, internships, and educational partnerships designed to equip individuals with the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in the workforce.
Retention and Recruitment Efforts
The YEDC works to retain existing talent in Yoakum while also attracting new talent to the community. Through targeted marketing campaigns, outreach efforts, and community engagement initiatives, the YEDC promotes Yoakum as an attractive destination for skilled workers seeking employment and career opportunities.
Laborshed Overview
With over 100,000 available within 60 miles, Yoakum can draw its workforce from Dewitt all of the way to Colorado counties. 65% of Yoakum’s workforce resides within 30 miles.
Primary Laborshed Area
- DeWitt County
- Lavaca County
- Victoria County
- Gonzales County
- Fayette County
- Jackson County
- Colorado County
These counties fall within a 30 to 60-minute commuting radius and form the foundation of Yoakum’s laborshed.
Key Laborshed Data (2024 Estimates)
| County | Total Population | Labor Force | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWitt | ~19,000 | ~9,000 | ~3.8% |
| Lavaca | ~20,000 | ~9,500 | ~3.2% |
| Victoria | ~91,000 | ~44,000 | ~4.1% |
| Gonzales | ~20,000 | ~9,000 | ~4.3% |
| Fayette | ~25,000 | ~11,000 | ~3.1% |
| Jackson | ~15,500 | ~7,000 | ~3.7% |
| Colorado | ~21,000 | ~9,500 | ~3.6% |
Combined Labor Force Estimate: Over 100,000 within 60 miles.
Top Regional Industries
- Manufacturing (leather goods, plastics, food processing)
- Oil & Gas/Petrochemicals
- Agriculture & Agribusiness
- Transportation & Logistics
- Healthcare & Social Services
- Construction & Skilled Trades
- Public Administration and Education
Commuting Patterns
65% of Yoakum’s workforce resides within 30 miles. – US Hwy 77A, TX Hwy 111, and US Hwy 90A provide strong regional access. Nearby employment hubs include Victoria, Cuero, Shiner, Hallettsville, and Gonzales.
Workforce Training & Education Resources
- Victoria College (Workforce Training Center)
- Texas State Technical College – Industrial Programs
- Yoakum High School Career & Technology Education (CTE)
- Custom employer training via Golden Crescent Workforce Solutions
Site Selector Advantages
- Multi-county laborshed with industrial-ready skills
- Competitive wages
- Access to customizable training and local partnerships
- Logistical connectivity for labor and freight movement
