Austin, January 15, 2026
The Texas Workforce Commission has appointed Steve Pier as its new executive director, effective February 2, 2026. With extensive experience in government and policy, Pier is expected to lead strategic initiatives to enhance workforce development services for Texas. His prior roles include Deputy Executive Director of the Texas Department of Information Resources and important positions within the Texas Senate and House of Representatives. This appointment follows the departure of former Executive Director Ed Serna and aims to strengthen the connection between employers and skilled workers in the state.
Austin, Texas – The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has appointed Steve Pier as its new executive director, effective February 2, 2026. With nearly three decades of policy and government experience, Pier is set to lead the agency with a strategic vision aimed at fostering economic growth and supporting Texas businesses.
Pier’s most recent role was as the Deputy Executive Director of the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR), where he oversaw crucial functions including government relations, data governance, and customer experience. His leadership in these areas was recognized for driving forward strategic initiatives that align with the agency’s mission. His extensive background also includes significant positions within the Texas Senate and House of Representatives, which adds depth to his understanding of state policy dynamics.
In the wake of former Executive Director Ed Serna’s departure in October 2025, Pier’s appointment signals a commitment to enhancing workforce development services, which are essential for connecting employers with the skilled workers they need. This transition presents a pivotal opportunity for the TWC to bolster initiatives that support job training programs and educational partnerships aimed at enriching Texas’ evolving labor market.
Experience and Strategic Vision
Steve Pier’s breadth of experience spans several key roles that have shaped his approach to public service. Before leading DIR, he served as the director of government relations for the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. His tenure in legislative positions, including both the Senate and House, has equipped him with a nuanced understanding of the regulatory landscape affecting Texas businesses. This knowledge will be critical as he navigates the complexities of workforce development in a rapidly changing economy.
The TWC aims to provide essential services that empower Texas employers and job seekers, and Pier’s appointment is expected to strengthen these efforts. By focusing on reducing regulatory burdens and fostering a collaborative approach to workforce challenges, he can help streamline processes that facilitate job creation and enhance economic resilience in the state.
The Role of the Texas Workforce Commission
The Texas Workforce Commission operates as a vital state agency dedicated to supporting economic prosperity across Texas. Its primary responsibilities include administering unemployment benefits, overseeing job training programs, and fostering partnerships with educational institutions. By effectively connecting a growing workforce with the needs of local businesses, the TWC plays a critical role in sustaining the state’s economic momentum.
Pier’s leadership will be instrumental in optimizing the agency’s operations, particularly as it addresses the ongoing labor market shifts influenced by economic innovation and technological advancements. By leveraging his experience and strategic insights, Pier can help ensure that TWC remains responsive to the needs of both employers and job seekers.
Community Engagement and Private Sector Support
The successful implementation of workforce development strategies hinges not only on government action but also on robust private sector collaboration. With Pier at the helm, there is potential for renewed focus on partnerships between the TWC and local businesses, creating a more agile workforce development framework. Engaging with Texas entrepreneurs and small-business owners will be vital to understanding the specific skills needed in the labor market, thereby fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability.
In a climate where reduced regulations often lead to entrepreneurial growth, Pier’s administration may prioritize initiatives that encourage business development. Supporting small businesses fosters local economies, creating more job opportunities and uplifting communities.
Summary and Call to Action
Steve Pier’s appointment as the TWC’s new executive director brings hope for enhanced workforce strategies that align with the needs of the Texas economy. Through his extensive background and commitment to fostering economic growth, Pier is positioned to influence the direction of workforce development initiatives positively.
As Austin continues to evolve and thrive, it is essential for residents and community members to engage with local businesses and stay invested in the region’s economic future. By supporting entrepreneurs and advocating for policies that promote job creation, Austinites can contribute to a dynamic economic landscape that benefits all.
FAQ Section
Who is the new executive director of the Texas Workforce Commission?
Steve Pier has been appointed as the new executive director, effective February 2, 2026.
What is Steve Pier’s background?
Pier has nearly three decades of policy and government experience, including serving as the Deputy Executive Director of the Texas Department of Information Resources and the Deputy Chief Information Officer for the State of Texas. He has also held positions in the Texas Senate and House of Representatives and served as director of government relations for the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
What is the role of the Texas Workforce Commission?
The TWC is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers, and communities prosper economically. It provides workforce development services to employers and job seekers across the state, overseeing unemployment benefits, job training programs, and partnerships with educational institutions to support Texas’ evolving labor market.
Who did Steve Pier succeed as executive director?
Pier succeeds Ed Serna, who resigned in October 2025. Randy Townsend has been serving as the interim executive director since then.
What are the responsibilities of the TWC’s executive director?
The executive director manages the day-to-day operations of the agency, implementing policies set by the three-member commission, which is appointed by the Governor of Texas.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Executive Director | Steve Pier, effective February 2, 2026 |
| Previous Role | Deputy Executive Director of the Texas Department of Information Resources and Deputy Chief Information Officer for the State of Texas |
| Preceding Executive Director | Ed Serna, who resigned in October 2025 |
| Interim Executive Director | Randy Townsend, serving since October 2025 |
| Agency’s Mission | To help Texas employers, workers, and communities prosper economically by providing workforce development services |
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