Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has named Joe Esparza as Chair of the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The Governor also appointed Brent Connett to serve as Commissioner Representing the Public on the TWC, with a term ending February 1, 2031. The TWC is responsible for overseeing and delivering workforce development services to both employers and job seekers in Texas.

Joe Esparza, from Oatmeal, has held the role of Commissioner Representing Employers at the TWC since 2023. His previous roles include serving as Texas Deputy Secretary of State, senior appointments manager in the Office of the Governor, clerk for the City of Lubbock, and field technician for the Texas General Land Office. Esparza volunteers with the Native Prairies Association of Texas and is a member of Knights of Columbus at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Marble Falls. He served eight years in active and reserve duty with the United States Marine Corps and holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications from Texas Tech University.

Brent Connett, based in Austin, is currently deputy director of Appointments in the Office of the Governor. His background includes senior staff positions in the Texas Senate and over ten years working in leadership roles for a legislative caucus and public policy research foundation. In 2021, he was appointed to the State Employee Charitable Campaign Policy Committee where he now serves as chairman. Connett also volunteers with ministries at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Austin and Meals on Wheels. He served more than 15 years in the Texas State Guard, achieving Sergeant First Class rank. Connett earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Government from The University of Texas at Austin.