Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed five individuals to the Texas Workforce Investment Council, according to an announcement made on October 18, 2023, in Austin, Texas. The Council plays a crucial role in workforce development programs throughout the state, providing planning, evaluation, research, and other functions related to 19 workforce programs.

Among the appointees is Johnny Vahalik, Ed.D., who serves as the assistant superintendent of college, career, and military readiness for the San Antonio Independent School District. Vahalik is a member of the Alliance for Technology Education in Applied Math and Sciences and Career and Technical Administrators of Texas. He holds a Bachelor of Accounting from The University of Texas at San Antonio and a Master of Education Leadership and a Doctor of Education in Education Leadership from Walden University.

Michelle Harper, president and CEO of United Way of Hays & Caldwell Counties, has also been appointed to the Council. Harper is actively involved in various organizations, including the San Marcos Academy Bear Network, the Master’s School of San Marcos Foundation, and the First United Methodist Church of San Marcos Foundation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication and Public Relations from Southwest Texas State University, as well as a teacher certificate from Texas State University.

Jesse Gatewood, an employee of Power Line Electric, LLC, has been reappointed to the Council. Gatewood serves as a board member of Workforce Coastal Bend and the Coast Life credit union. He has extensive experience in the electrical industry and has previously held positions with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 27 and the Texas Gulf Coast Electrical Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (JATC).

John Langdon Martin, the training director for the South Texas Electrical JATC, has also been reappointed to the Council. Martin is actively involved in various industry associations, including the National Electrical Training Directors Association and the Apprenticeship and Training Association of Texas. He has held positions on the Curriculum Development Committee and the Texas Workforce Commission Apprenticeship and Training Advisory Committee.

Richard "Rick" Craig Rhodes has been reappointed as the rural engagement coordinator for the Texas Rural Funders and continues to serve as the chair of the Texas Workforce Investment Council. Rhodes has a background in both public and private sectors, having worked in senior state government positions and as a small business owner and commercial banker. He is a member of the Texas Economic Development Council.

Governor Abbott's appointments reflect his commitment to workforce development and ensuring that Texas has a skilled and prepared workforce to meet the needs of the state's growing economy.

Contact:

Office of the Texas Governor

P.O. Box 12428

Austin Texas 78711

(512) 463-2000

Click this link to access more information: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-appoints-five-to-texas-workforce-investment-council