Governor Abbott Launches the Texas Jobs Council

Recently, Governor Greg Abbott launched the Texas Jobs Council, a new advisory board designed to strengthen workforce development initiatives across the state and ensure Texans are prepared to fill a growing number of in-demand, high-paying jobs. As Texas continues to lead the nation in business growth, job creation, and workforce training, the need for a coordinated, forward-looking strategy has become increasingly important.

Texas’s rapidly expanding economy has created significant demand for skilled workers in essential trades such as electricians, pipefitters, welders, plumbers, and truck drivers. These professions form the backbone of the state’s infrastructure and industrial growth, yet employers often struggle to find enough qualified workers to meet their needs. Without a strong pipeline of trained professionals, Texas risks slowing its momentum at a time when economic opportunity is abundant.

To address this challenge, Governor Abbott created the Texas Jobs Council. Comprised of leaders from both business organizations and labor unions, the council brings together diverse perspectives to develop practical solutions. Co-chaired by Brent Taylor, Vice President of South Teamsters, and Megan Mauro, Interim President of the Texas Association of Business, the council’s leadership reflects a balanced approach that values both employer needs and worker opportunities. Together, the twelve members are tasked with recommending executive actions to reduce regulatory burdens and proposing policies and legislation to strengthen workforce readiness. Please see below for the full list of Texas Jobs Council members.

The impact of this initiative extends far beyond job placement. For workers, access to in-demand careers can provide higher, more reliable wages that support families and promote long-term financial stability. For businesses, a well-trained workforce drives productivity and growth, while increased consumer spending strengthens local economies. Communities also stand to benefit significantly. Increased employment and higher wages generate additional tax revenue that can be reinvested in critical improvements, including updated roads and bridges, modernized schools, and enhanced emergency services.

As the eighth-largest economy in the world—and growing—Texas continues to expand at an extraordinary pace. Meeting the demands of this growth requires a skilled workforce that is ready to build, maintain, and innovate. Through the creation of the Texas Jobs Council, Governor Abbott has taken an important step toward aligning workforce development with economic growth. The result is a stronger Texas—one where workers and their families enjoy greater economic security, expanded opportunities, and an improved quality of life.

Texas Jobs Council

Co-Chair, Brent Taylor, VP South Teamsters Local 745 & Teamsters Joint Council 80

Co-Chair, Megan Mauro, Interim President Texas Association of Business

Tony Bennett, President Texas Association of Manufacturers

Todd Staples, President Texas Oil and Gas Association

Hector Rivero, President Texas Chemistry Council

Scott Norman, CEO of Texas Association of Builders

Robert Mele, President Teamsters Local 988

Robert Wayne Lord, Business Manager Plumbers Local Union 68

Alan Robb, Assistant General International Longshoremen’s Assoc.

Lacy Wolf, Local 22 President Heat and Frost Insulators Local Union 22

Mark Maher Jr., Business Manager International Union of Operating Engineers 450

Bryan Edwards, Business Manager Pipefitters Local Union 211

About the Author
Calvin Pacleb is a consultant with Robert Half, the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm. His work within Robert Half’s consulting practice focuses on financial systems and operations in the private equity industry. Additionally, Calvin is the founder of The Catholic Action Network, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit focused on economic development, investment, and entrepreneurship as pathways out of poverty.