E4Texas continues to transform lives through career-focused education, with program graduates achieving a 76% employment rate, compared to just 19% nationally.
The program, housed in the Texas Center for Disability Studies, welcomed a new cohort of students over the summer. Available to people with or without disabilities who have high school diplomas and are employment-focused, E4Texas combines classroom instruction with practical career-building experiences and independent living skills.
Since its inception in 2018, E4Texas has operated on four interconnected goals: Empower Texans to become self-determined and independent, Educate Texans to gain employment and professional skills, Employ Texans across multiple career tracks, and give participants the tools they need to Excel in life.
Students choose from three career tracks during their three-semester experience: personal care attendants who support individuals with disabilities and older adults, early childhood education assistants who work in childcare settings, and paraprofessionals who support teachers and students in classrooms. All students live on campus and audit UT courses such as music, anthropology and ethics — creating inclusive classroom experiences while building academic confidence.
Building skills through real-world experience
The transformation is evident in graduates like Aidan Guerra. “I learned how to work and take care of myself and make new friends,” said Guerra, a 2025 E4Texas graduate. “I’m from a small town with no public transportation or programs for young adults. Now, I live in Austin, (and) my job lets me live on my own.”
The program balances structured learning with real-world application. During the summer semester, students familiarized themselves with campus and public transportation, explored accessibility through the Landmarks public art collection on campus, learned disability history and connected with advocates and representatives at the Capitol.
Since 2018, E4Texas has graduated 67 students, with this track record of success continuing. Five students from the 2024-25 cohort secured positions before graduation this past May.
“We want people to have options, to understand their network of support, to expand their networks and to, frankly, build that resiliency,” said Joe Tate, E4Texas founder and program manager.