The Senate Committee on Nominations convened on March 31, 2025, to discuss key issues surrounding workforce development and manufacturing in Texas. The meeting featured Rob Mieso, a regent of Texas State Technical College (TSTC), who emphasized the critical role of skilled labor in the manufacturing sector.

Mieso, a Texas native with over 30 years in manufacturing, highlighted the importance of workforce training programs offered by TSTC and community colleges across the state. He noted that while Texas has ample resources and infrastructure for manufacturing, the primary challenge lies in the availability of skilled workers. Mieso stated, "I think we need to double down on our ability to grow workforce," underscoring the urgency of addressing labor shortages to meet the demands of the industry.

Senator Hagenbluth raised concerns about the impact of tariffs on manufacturing capacity, prompting Mieso to clarify that the real issue is not the ability to build factories but rather the capacity to employ qualified individuals. He shared insights from his experience with companies considering relocation to Texas, emphasizing that the state's workforce development capabilities often outweigh financial incentives offered by other states.

The discussion also touched on the effectiveness of TSTC's outcome-based funding model, which ties state funding to the success of graduates in securing employment. Mieso explained that this model focuses on aligning educational programs with industry needs, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the job market.

Senator Alvarado and Senator Eckhart expressed support for TSTC's initiatives, with Eckhart noting the importance of local efforts to enhance skilled trades training. Mieso acknowledged the collaborative efforts among educational institutions and industry partners to create a robust workforce pipeline.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical need for continued investment in workforce development in Texas, particularly in manufacturing and skilled trades. As the state competes for business relocations and expansions, the focus on training and education will be vital to sustaining economic growth and meeting industry demands.