TWC Welcomes New Chairman and New Commissioner Representing the Public

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott has named Joe Esparza as Chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), the agency announced today. Governor Abbott has also appointed Brent Connett as TWC’s new Commissioner Representing the Public, for a term set to expire on February 1, 2031.

“I am deeply grateful to Governor Abbott for the opportunity to serve as Chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “I look forward to leading the Commission and working with Commissioners Connett and Treviño to ensure Texas continues to attract employers on a global scale with our dynamic business climate, skilled workforce, and strong community partnerships." 

Esparza has served TWC as the Commissioner Representing Employers over the past two years. Prior to his appointment, Esparza served as the Texas Deputy Secretary of State, having previously served as a Senior Appointments Manager in the Office of the Governor, overseeing numerous gubernatorial appointments during Governor Abbott’s first term. Esparza is a volunteer for the Native Prairies Association of Texas and a member of the Knights of Columbus at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Marble Falls. A graduate of Texas Tech University, Esparza earned a Bachelor of Science in agricultural communications. Esparza received an Honorable Discharge from the United States Marine Corps after eight years of active and reserve service.

“The Texas Workforce Commission plays a vital role in ensuring that our state's workforce is strong and vibrant,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “I'm pleased to continue working with Chairman Esparza and Commissioner Connett to ensure that all Texans have the opportunity to succeed in our expanding economy.”

Governor Abbott also appointed the new Commissioner Representing the Public, Brent Connett of Austin. Most recently, Connett was deputy director of Appointments in the Office of the Governor. His previous experience also includes senior staff-level roles in the Texas Senate and more than 10 years in various 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 the chairman. Connett volunteers in multiple ministries at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Austin and with Meals on Wheels. Connett received a Bachelor of Arts in government from The University of Texas at Austin.

“I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside Chairman Esparza and Commissioner Treviño at the Texas Workforce Commission,” said Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “With our partnership, I am dedicated to propelling our state and agency to new heights.”

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Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers, and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and its services in coordination with its local workforce development boards network, call 800-628-5115 or visit https://twc.texas.gov/. Subscribe to email updates to receive notifications about TWC programs and services.