The Office of Government Affairs for Texas State Technical College (TSTC) serves as the primary interface between the College and governmental entities, to include the Texas Legislature, Congress and governmental agencies. As TSTC is a state-funded institution, the primary focus is on the Texas Legislature and the Capitol. There, the Government Affairs team monitors relevant legislation, coordinates TSTC-specific issues and manages the state appropriations process regarding TSTC budget items.
Whether in Austin or in Washington DC at the Congressional level, the Government Affairs team actively guards TSTC’s image to ensure that policymakers hear a unified and consistent message regarding TSTC’s programs and efforts. Through countless Capitol visits, hosted events, policy briefings and printed materials, team members work diligently to elevate TSTC’s stature as a national leader in technical education.
Because TSTC is Texas’ only two-year college specifically tasked with workforce training, the Government Affairs team views the strength and stability of the Texas workforce as being vital to its mission. Therefore, the Government Affairs team partners at the state level with trade and industry associations to ensure that policymakers understand workforce trends and industry needs. Additionally, the team works with TSTC Provosts at the campus level to build linkages with local businesses and community leaders to ensure employers are assured of a trained and readily available workforce.