Governor Greg Abbott highlighted the work of the Texas Jobs Council to strengthen the state’s workforce during a visit on April 16 to the International Union of Operating Engineers Training Center. The Governor emphasized career training as essential for meeting growing employment needs in Texas, while touring what he described as North America’s most comprehensive union training facility for Operating and Stationary Engineers.
Abbott said that improving job skills is important for maintaining Texas’s strong business climate and ensuring good careers for future generations. “The training and skills learned by workers like those behind me are helping ensure Texas has the best workforce in the nation,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas parents want their children to have a good paying career in the future. The Texas Job Council is delivering on that by equipping our current workforce with the resources they need to enhance their skills and develop premier job training at high schools, colleges, and apprenticeship programs. All of us are united by a shared mission to keep Texas the best state in America for doing business, the number one state in America for jobs, and ensure great careers for generations of Texans.”
During his remarks, Abbott also noted that aligning worker training with employer needs helps fill high-demand jobs. He pointed out that Texas leads nationally in workforce development, business relocations, expansion projects, and was named Best Business Climate. He recognized IUOE’s leadership in skilled worker training supporting economic growth.
Over two years, more than $7 billion has been invested statewide into career training programs. Last year saw new laws signed expanding technical education through partnerships with higher education institutions and improved advising services.
The event included Representative Briscoe Cain; Megan Mauro, Co-Chair of the Council; Tom McNamara from IUOE; Mark Maher Jr from IUOE Local 450; along with other leaders from business and labor sectors.
Last month marked both the launch of the Jobs Council at a meeting held at the historic Governor’s Mansion, which has served as official residence since 1856 according to the official website. The council will focus on immediate executive actions by state agencies to reduce regulatory burdens around workforce development as well as policy recommendations ahead of next year’s legislative session.
Greg Abbott serves as the 48th governor leading this office, which advances cultural understanding through commissions supporting opportunities for women and people with disabilities according to its website. The Office promotes economic opportunity, education, public safety—and provides leadership across all regions—while making appointments to boards and assisting constituents according to its website.
