Governor Abbott Touts Texas Jobs Council During Gulf Coast Visit

April 17, 2026 – Greg Abbott highlighted the state’s workforce development efforts during a visit to Crosby on April 16, promoting the newly launched Texas Jobs Council as a key driver of future economic growth.

During the visit, Abbott toured the International Training & Education Center, the flagship facility of the International Union of Operating Engineers, where workers receive hands-on training for high-demand careers in construction and industrial operations. The governor praised the center as an example of how industry partnerships can prepare Texans for well-paying jobs.

“The training and skills learned by workers like those behind me are helping ensure Texas has the best workforce in the nation,” Abbott said, emphasizing the importance of career-focused education pathways.

The Texas Jobs Council, launched last month, aims to strengthen the state’s talent pipeline by aligning education and training programs with employer needs. The initiative will focus on reducing regulatory barriers, expanding apprenticeships, and developing policy recommendations ahead of the next legislative session.

Abbott noted that Texas has invested more than $7 billion in career training over the past two years, including expanded career and technical education programs through recent legislation. The state has consistently ranked among the top in business relocations and economic expansion, bolstered by its reputation for a favorable business climate.

Workforce leaders and lawmakers joined the visit, underscoring collaboration between government, industry, and labor groups. The council is expected to deliver a final report in November outlining strategies to further strengthen Texas’ workforce development system and support long-term economic growth.