Texas has topped business rankings for years—and for good reason. Texas has the infrastructure, the talent, the business-friendly environment, and a deep commitment to workforce development. That mix creates a winning formula for companies of all sizes. “The partnership that we have with our local and regional economic development organizations is really critical to our success, and we work as a team,” says Cruz.

Adriana Cruz shares why Tesla chose Texas over California for its new Gigafactory. Cruz highlights Texas’s favorable business climate, including lower taxes, streamlined regulations, and a commitment to workforce development, as key factors that attracted Tesla. In 18 months of starting construction in eastern Austin, Texas, Tesla had vehicles rolling out of the plant. She emphasizes that the state’s collaborative approach to economic development and its investment in infrastructure played a significant role in Tesla’s decision to establish operations in Texas.

Texas’ lack of personal income tax and low regulatory burden are often touted as key advantages. But Cruz emphasizes that success goes beyond taxes. The state is also deeply invested in building robust regional economies, supporting innovation, and aligning workforce initiatives to meet the needs of rapidly evolving industries.

The goal is to create an ecosystem where companies can not only land—but thrive.

Industry Focus: What’s Growing in Texas

Cruz shares that the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office has identified several target industries that are driving growth and shaping the future economy:

• Food & livestock production
• Hospitality, tourism & culture
• Advanced manufacturing
• Energy and clean tech
• Information technology
• Life sciences and biotech
• Professional and corporate operations
• Transportation and logistics
• Petroleum refining and chemicals
• Rare earth elements and mineral mining

These sectors are drawing major investments—think billion-dollar semiconductor fabs, new EV production lines, and research hubs in biotech. But Cruz notes that the strength of Texas lies in its diversity. While tech and manufacturing headline the news, small businesses, logistics, agriculture, and tourism are also major engines of job creation.

The Talent Pipeline: Texas’ Competitive Edge

A key part of what makes Texas attractive to employers is the emphasis on talent. Cruz highlights the close collaboration between employers, workforce boards, and educational institutions, particularly through initiatives like Texas’ Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant program and partnerships with community colleges and career and technical education providers.

That future-focused approach helps attract and retain companies, while giving Texans access to better opportunities and upward mobility.

What This Means for Employers

For employers already in Texas—or considering a move—this episode is a must-listen. Cruz explains how companies can tap into state incentives, workforce programs, and regional partnerships to expand efficiently and sustainably.

She also encourages businesses to engage with their local and regional economic development organizations. There are so many resources available, but collaboration is key. Employers who raise their hands and build relationships get results faster.

Whether you’re hiring welders in rural Texas or building out a corporate HQ in Austin, the support system is there—and designed to help you grow.

Texas Is Built for Business—And Built for the Future

Adriana’s message is clear: Texas is more than a state—it’s a strategy. With a strong economy, deliberate investment in workforce and infrastructure, and a culture of collaboration, the Lone Star State continues to set the standard for business growth.

For employers, that means one thing: there’s never been a better time to be part of the momentum. Hear Economic Development is a Team Sport with Adriana Cruz on Another Week of Available Work.