ABILENE, Texas — Meta is set to eliminate approximately 8,000 workers starting May 20, according to Reuters. In its most recent financial highlights report, the company outlined plans to spend up to $135 billion on AI-related infrastructure in 2026.
As major technology companies restructure around artificial intelligence, workforce impacts are being closely monitored at the local level. Bill Dean serves as the director of workforce partnerships at Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas. He highlighted strong employment conditions across the region compared to state and national averages.
“Our West Central Texas region is composed of 19 counties. According to the data that we received at the start of this year, there is a 3.8% unemployment rate,” Dean said. “The state of Texas has a 4.3% unemployment rate, which is also the national average. Our region is seeing some of the lowest unemployment levels in the state right now.”
In 2026, Meta plans to spend up to $135 billion on AI-related infrastructure (SBG).
Even with favorable regional employment trends, Dean noted that artificial intelligence could reshape portions of the labor market.
“There are some challenges ahead. I think that certain jobs will be replaced by artificial intelligence, but we will still need human workers to serve people,” he said. “We haven’t seen a robot that can completely replace humans when it comes to performing certain tasks. Even when we do have robots or artificial intelligence performing certain tasks, human oversight is still necessary.”
West Central Texas currently shows favorable regional employment trends (SBG).
Workforce leaders are already adjusting how they approach training and placement strategies. The challenge now is helping job applicants align with a shifting employment landscape. KTXS asked, “How is Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas helping job seekers find employment?”
Dean outlined the resources available.
“We host some regional job fairs. Job seekers can also attend one of our Employer Spotlight events. Those are some ways for job applicants to see what job postings are available. They can also receive interview training and build their resumes. We offer some great opportunities for job seekers to earn and learn. We have apprenticeship programs as well.”
For more information on available services and job opportunities, visit the Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas website.