Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Courtney Arbour, Leslie Cantu, and Sylvia Kauffman to the Task Force on Consolidation of Workforce and Social Services. The Task Force was created to develop a plan for the consolidation of workforce development programs administered by the Texas Workforce Commission and safety-net programs administered by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Courtney Arbour, the workforce director of the Texas Workforce Commission, brings a wealth of experience to the Task Force. She has successfully implemented numerous statewide initiatives and programs aimed at training and connecting Texans with high-demand jobs. Arbour is also actively involved in various organizations, including the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) Employment & Training Committee and the Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinating Council. She was previously appointed by Governor Abbott to serve on the Texas Early Learning Council.

Leslie Cantu, the vice president of administration at Toyotetsu Texas, Inc., joins the Task Force with her expertise in the manufacturing industry. Cantu is the president of the Texas Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education – Alamo Chapter and the chair of the Workforce Solutions Alamo Board of Directors. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M University, she brings a unique perspective to the Task Force.

Sylvia Kauffman, the president and CEO of Sylvia Kauffman Consulting, LLC, is an expert in strategy, Medicaid, program integrity, data analytics, and health IT. She previously served as the inspector general for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Kauffman is a member of the Stanford Club of Austin and Harvard Club of Austin, showcasing her strong academic background. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Stanford University and a Master of Science in Public Policy from Harvard University.

With the appointment of these three individuals, the Task Force on Consolidation of Workforce and Social Services is well-equipped to tackle the challenge of streamlining and improving workforce development and safety-net programs in Texas. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will contribute to the development of an effective consolidation plan.

Governor Abbott's decision to form this Task Force demonstrates his commitment to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of government programs. By consolidating workforce development and social services, Texas can better serve its residents and ensure that they have access to the resources and support they need.

The work of the Task Force will have a significant impact on the lives of Texans, as it aims to improve coordination and collaboration between different agencies and programs. The consolidation of workforce and social services will help create a more streamlined and responsive system, ultimately benefiting individuals and families in need.

Governor Abbott's appointments of Courtney Arbour, Leslie Cantu, and Sylvia Kauffman highlight his dedication to selecting individuals with the expertise and experience necessary to address the challenges facing Texas. With their guidance, the Task Force on Consolidation of Workforce and Social Services is poised to make meaningful progress in improving the lives of Texans.

Click this link to access more information: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-appoints-three-to-task-force-on-consolidation-of-workforce-and-social-services