The Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) leadership hierarchy is changing with the appointment of Joe Esparza as chair and the addition of Brent Connett as the commissioner representing the public. Connett’s term is slated to expire Feb. 1, 2031.
The TWC oversees and offers workforce development services to employers and job seekers, implementing and maintaining several programs and initiatives designed to keep residents employed and advance workforce development. The agency’s workforce development work is an essential component of the state’s holistic economic development strategy.
Esparza is a sitting member of the TWC, serving as the commissioner representing employers since 2023. Prior to joining the TWC, he worked as the Texas Deputy Secretary of State for seven years. He has also served as a senior appointments manager in the Office of the Governor, a clerk for the city of Lubbock and was a member of the United States Marine Corps for eight years. Esparza earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications from Texas Tech University.
Connett works in the Office of the Governor as deputy director of appointments. Before joining the Governor’s Office, he held senior staff-level roles in the Texas Senate. Connett brings more than a decade of experience in various leadership roles for a legislative causu8s and public policy research foundation. He was also appointed to the State Employee Charitable Campaign Policy Committee and later named chairman of that same committee. He served for more than 15 years in the Texas State Guard. Connett received a Bachelor of Arts in Government from The University of Texas at Austin.
