The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) offers a free hiring pipeline for employers across Texas, a resource many business owners in Central Texas remain unaware of, according to Isaac Marquez-Diaz, Veteran Employer Liaison for the TVC. Marquez-Diaz appeared on Episode 75 of the Rock Solid: Round Rock Business Leaders Podcast, hosted by Bryan Eisenberg, released May 26, 2026. The episode, titled 'How Veterans Can Find Great Jobs in Texas,' details how transitioning service members represent a strong, disciplined talent pool that employers can tap into at no cost.
Marquez-Diaz, a military veteran and former police officer based at the Round Rock Workforce Solutions office, explained the practical mechanics of veteran hiring. He highlighted WorkInTexas.com, a state job portal that automatically matches postings to qualified candidates, including unemployment recipients required to maintain accounts. Another key resource is the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) internship pipeline, which allows employers to host transitioning soldiers for up to 90 days while the military continues paying their salary. This zero-cost trial period enables employers to evaluate potential hires before committing to permanent employment.
Marquez-Diaz also addressed the challenge of translating military titles into civilian equivalents. For example, a sergeant or commander can be matched to supervisor, manager, or director roles. He pushed back on the assumption that veteran hiring requires special handling, emphasizing the discipline instilled in service members. 'When you go to basic training, they kind of delete who you were and they transform you into a soldier. If you give them a mission, they're going to accomplish it,' he said.
The conversation included success stories, such as a Marine veteran relocating from San Diego whose state application was nearly rejected over a technical error. After Marquez-Diaz advocated on his behalf, the candidate was hired and now serves as HR Director for the Texas General Land Office, where he is building new veteran-focused programs. Marquez-Diaz also recounted last year's TVC Job Fair Con at Kalahari Resorts, which drew over 1,200 attendees, including candidates from New York. This year's event is scheduled for July 22, with more than 200 employers expected.
Eisenberg, who operates the A Place at Home franchise providing care for seniors and veterans, pressed Marquez-Diaz on how small businesses can connect with this talent pool. Marquez-Diaz encouraged employers to contact him directly or connect via LinkedIn. He explained that he left law enforcement to take this role after the TVC helped him find work at an Austin-area job fair, underscoring the effectiveness of the program.
The episode underscores the importance of the TVC's free services for both employers and veterans. As Marquez-Diaz noted, many businesses overlook transitioning service members despite their proven work ethic and adaptability. By leveraging the TAP internship pipeline and WorkInTexas.com, employers can access a reliable workforce without upfront costs. The upcoming Kalahari job fair offers another opportunity for businesses to meet candidates face-to-face.