TEDC Staff
Carlton Schwab has been President/CEO of the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) since February 1st, 1999. During that time, the 1,000-member TEDC has developed into a recognized leader in the professional development of its members and a powerful voice for economic development policy in the state of Texas.
In his role as President/CEO of the TEDC, Mr. Schwab has served on numerous boards and commissions. In 2012, he was named by Governor Perry to the Select Committee on Economic Development – a committee created by the 83rd Texas Legislature to review economic development policy for the state of Texas. In 2015 and 2016 he was the Chair of the Advisory Committee of the Texas Legislative Conference.
In 2017, Mr. Schwab was named an Honorary Life Member of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and in November 2022 received the Council of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA) Lifetime Achievement Award.
Prior to his tenure at the TEDC, Mr. Schwab was Director of Development at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin (1996-1999). From 1989 to 1996, Mr. Schwab was a Director with Deloitte Consulting where he specialized in corporate site location analysis and economic development strategic planning. Mr. Schwab also spent time working in economic development at the local level, having served as Vice President of the Lubbock Board of City Development from 1986 to 1989.
Mr. Schwab raises registered Texas Longhorn cattle and is a Texas Certified Master Naturalist, affiliated with the Balcones Canyonlands Chapter in Austin, Texas.
Matt joined the Texas Economic Development Council in July 2024. He advocates for the interests of TEDC members in legislative and regulatory environments.
Before joining TEDC, Matt was the primary staff member for healthcare, energy, and employment relations issues at the Texas Association of Business (TAB). Before that, he served as the Chief of Staff for Texas State Representative John Frullo. Matt deeply understands the Texas legislative process, and his relationships within the Texas House, Texas Senate, Governor’s office, and various state agencies give him unique insight into the current state of affairs at the Texas Capitol.
Despite his professional commitments, Matt's personal life is equally vibrant. Born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, he moved to Austin in 2011. He is a proud father of two young daughters who share his love for bounce houses, swimming, and ice cream. The family enjoys gardening, hiking, and exploring new places throughout Texas in their free time.
Crystal originally joined the staff of the TEDC in July 2007 as the Executive Assistant. After several years she was promoted to Director of Operations. Over the years, Crystal has helped manage TEDC events and the office operations. She also has worked with the COO on financial matters and bookkeeping functions. Crystal was the staff coordinator for the TEDC's Political Action Committee and also supported Team Texas.
In 2021 Crystal stepped back from a staff position with the TEDC to focus more on her family while she continued to work with the TEDC on a contract basis to assist with financial matters and special projects.
In September 2024, Crystal rejoined TEDC on staff as the Manager of Business Services. She continues to provide her expertise in financial matters and budgeting, while managing office procedures, record-keeping and support for TEDC conferences. She continues to provide continuity to TEDC operations with her many years of work for the organization. Crystal also supports Team Texas and assists with special projects.
Crystal is a native Austinite and is the mom to three active children.
Jessica joined the Texas Economic Development Council in June 2024. She oversees the management of the Economic Development Sales Tax Workshops, Basic Economic Development Courses and the Political Action Committee. Jessica is also responsible for accounts payable, banking, and provides administrative oversight of the council’s operations.
Prior to joining TEDC, Jessica managed the operations of the Association of Electric Companies of Texas (AECT) for over 16 years. She previously worked for the Texas Veterinary Medical Association. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Jessica is actively involved in her local Parent-Teacher Association (PTA). As a devoted PTA parent, she volunteers her time and expertise to support various school programs, organize fundraising events, and advocate for the needs of students and educators. Jessica's leadership within the PTA exemplifies her dedication to strengthening school-community partnerships and fostering a supportive learning environment for children. Jessica was born and raised in Austin, Texas. Being the eldest of 7 siblings instilled in her the values of hard work, resilience, and the importance of community engagement. She prioritizes her role as a mother of 3 above all else, and she actively participates in their school activities, sports events, and extracurricular pursuits. Jessica's ability to balance her professional endeavors with her family life serves as an inspiration to those around her, demonstrating that it is possible to excel both in the workplace and at home.
In her free time, when she has it, Jessica finds joy in spending quality time with her family and friends, exploring new cultures through travel, and immersing herself in local culture.