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.
Amy joined the staff of the Texas Economic Development Council in October 2006. In her 17-year tenure with the TEDC, Amy has helped shaped the organization's programs and services, including the launch of several new initiatives, and has been played a key role in the growth of the TEDC. Her responsibilities, event planning and management for the TEDC's Conferences and Webinars. She also oversees finance and budgeting, and manages the TEDC's Award Programs, Mentorship Program, Leadership Program and Certified Texas Economic Developer Certification Program. She also coordinates the exhibitor opportunites and sponsorships. Amy provides research, presentation and legislative support to the CEO. She also oversees human resources, operations, compliance, coordination for TEDC’s internal committees and the board of directors, and special projects as needed. She also is the key personnel for grant coordination and reporting. Amy works withthe CEO on strategic planning initiatives, publications and survey. Amy was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 2023. She served as Vice President from 2014 to 2023 and Director of Operations from 2006 to 2014.
Prior to taking the position at the TEDC in 2006, Amy worked for the Round Rock Economic Development Partnership for 2 ½ years. She completed her Certificate of Continuing Education at University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute in 2007. Amy’s career includes more than 35 years of business experience, including seven years as a legal assistant and five years in banking and community relations. She earned her Associates in Business Degree in 1985.
In 2023 Amy earned a Certificate in Non-profit Management from the University of San Diego.
Amy was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and moved to Austin, Texas in 2000. She is an avid Pittsburgh Steeler fan.
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.
Rachel Smith joined the Texas Economic Development Council in May 2024 as the Director of Membership.
Originally from Grapevine, Texas, Rachel's path led her to Sewickley, Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh area) in 2008. In 2013 she attended West Virginia Wesleyan College where she played volleyball and earned her B.A. in Communications with a minor in Social Justice. After graduation, Rachel returned to her Texas roots and moved to Austin to complete a service year with AmeriCorps through Austin Public Health as a Communications Vista. Following that role, Rachel joined the staff of the Texas Association of Community Health Centers where she worked for three years, serving as recruitment and retention program assistant and membership coordinator.
In her downtime, Rachel finds solace in paddleboarding and enjoys participating in adult recreational sports.”
Miles is an eight-year-old graduate of the streets of East Austin. He currently serves as the Weekend Consultant to the President/CEO.
After overcoming his life-long fear of elevators, Miles is now able to report from the president’s couch on matters related to the sights, sounds and smells of the office. In addition to being a consultant, he serves as back-up security when Cooper is off-duty.
With years of experience studying under his longhorn brothers at the president’s ranch, Miles is recognized as one of the top dogs in the business. His experience also includes serving as a volunteer home protector and canine companion to his family. While off-duty, Miles can be found chasing squirrels and warding off potential animal home invaders. He enjoys going on long evening walks around the neighborhood as well as catching up on Netflix with his family.
Miles is very excited to be a part of the TEDC team and is proud to be working alongside Cooper Swank!
In Memorium: Cooper Swank 2008 - 2022
Cooper was a Maltese rescued by Amy in 2011. He was faithfully by her side for almost 11 years. Cooper is missed terribly by all TEDC Staff.