1. Texas Workforce Commission The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is a collaborating partner in the economic development processes for the State of Texas. TWC is the state government agency charged with overseeing and providing workforce development services to employers and job seekers of Texas. A Statewide Network • Texas Workforce Commission • 28 Local Workforce Boards • Over 250 Texas Workforce Solution Centers • Market driven • Fully integrated services at one-stop centers

2. Texas Workforce Commission A Statewide Network

3. Competing in Global Markets • Workforce is key to developing and maintaining a competitive advantage. • Employers need talented professionals, skilled workers and job seekers with the latest and best skills in order to take advantage of regional, national and global opportunities. • Employers are deciding every day whether they will expand, locate or even remain in Texas and whether they consider their workforce an asset or a liability is a major factor in their decision-making.

4. Texas Cluster Initiative Targets Texas Industries Most Likely to Grow Through Technology Information & Computer Technology Petroleum Refining & Chemical Products Aerospace & Defense Biotechnology & Life Science Energy Advanced Technologies & Manufacturing

5. Workforce Policies Are The Engines of Economic Growth Information & Computer Technology Petroleum Refining & Chemical Products Aerospace & Defense Biotechnology & Life Science Energy Advanced Technologies & Manufacturing • “The Next Big Thing” • Focus on “Over the Horizon” Technologies, Markets , and Transformation Strategies • Create the Capacity for Innovation – Cultural Transformation in Emerging Texas Industries • Network Regional Support Systems to Accelerate Transformation • Cluster-Based Economic Development Strategy • Increases Productivity • Stimulates and Enables Innovation, Commercialization and New Business Formation • Reflects the Fundamental Influence of Competition • Recommends Policies and Programs to Create Strategic Leverage

6. Texas Aerospace Industry • The Texas economic development strategy recognizes that global competition is increasingly based on knowledge-based talent, and the ability to commercialize new technologies into high growth global industries. • One recognized Texas asset for both talent and technology innovation is the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston. • As JSC has evolved into one of NASA’s largest research and development facilities, the greater Houston, Texas area has developed into an aerospace hub. • Together, Houston and JSC share an identity around the world as geographic landmarks of space travel and scientific breakthrough