Governor Greg Abbott has infused fresh expertise into the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors with the appointment of two new members. The move aims to fortify Texas' economic landscape, according to an announcement from the Governor's office.
The board, which collaborates with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism, is responsible for branding Texas as a premier destination for businesses—both within the country and beyond its borders; the newly appointed members are Lawrence "Larry" Coben, Ph.D., and Bruce Niemeyer, boast impressive credentials that could serve to enhance the organization's mission, subject to Senate confirmation. Coben holds the reigns as Chairman, President, and CEO of NRG Energy, Inc., with a storied history in various energy sector leadership roles. his academic achievements span from Yale to Harvard, reflecting a blend of economics, anthropology, and law.
On the other hand, Niemeyer, who currently leads Chevron's Americas Exploration and Production, brings valuable industry insight from his tenure within one of the world's leading energy companies. Niemeyer's experience includes serving as Chevron's corporate vice president of strategy and sustainability, and he has been a pivotal force in regional business leadership circles through his involvement in the executive committee of the Greater Houston Partnership and holding a bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines.
With energy being a central pillar of the state's economy, the appointments of Coben and Niemeyer could signal a strategic direction that leverages the Lone Star State's rich natural resources whilst potentially fostering new growth avenues, amid a global business environment that continues to rapidly evolve. How this renewed focus will play out on the broad canvas of Texas economic development and what impetus these leaders will provide to strategic planning initiatives remains to be seen as the board continues to work alongside public entities to position Texas as an economic powerhouse.
