Earlier this Congress, I joined Congressman Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) in reintroducing the Building Youth Workforce Skills Act. This legislation expands access to workforce training opportunities for in-school youth, ages 16 to 21, by allowing local workforce development boards to use existing Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds for Individual Training Accounts. In short, it gives students who want to pursue skills training, including through apprenticeships, a real path forward without raising federal spending. By investing in young people now, we can prepare them to step into high-demand, high-paying careers and strengthen both our workforce and our communities for years to come.

In line with President Trump’s goal of reaching and surpassing 1 million new apprenticeships throughout the next four years, I am working to introduce legislation that would establish an apprenticeship tax credit for businesses like the ones I visited throughout East Texas. This idea spurred directly from my visit with Caliber Collision, where I got to meet the individuals that benefit most from these types of programs and see the good they can bring to our workforce, communities, and greater economy. Over the next few weeks, I’m excited to share more with you about our efforts on the Ways and Means Committee in securing skilled trade jobs for the future of America.

From apprenticeship programs here in East Texas to legislation in Washington, the goal is the same: to ensure the next generation has the tools, opportunities, and confidence they need to thrive.

To read more about the Building Youth Workforce Skills Act, click here.

Investing in our Workforce, Honoring our Veterans

It is encouraging to see companies step up to meet today’s workforce challenges by recruiting, training, and equipping veterans and others who face barriers to employment. Adaptive Construction Solutions, under the steady leadership of Nicholas Morgan—a U.S. Army Veteran and former Staff Sergeant who served in Iraq—is doing just that. Through innovative apprenticeship programs, he has opened doors of economic mobility, preparing skilled ironworkers and other professionals for careers that provide dignity and purpose.

Their commitment has been recognized time and again, earning multiple HIRE Vets Platinum Awards from the U.S. Department of Labor and securing a $1.5 million National Dislocated Worker Grant to help transitioning service members right here in Texas. This kind of servant leadership and dedication to our veteran community is exactly what strengthens our workforce and builds lasting opportunity for families across our state.

Keeping Texas Growing with the Texas Farm Bureau

This week, I had the opportunity to sit down for lunch with members of the Texas Farm Bureau. We covered a lot of ground during our meeting, including the positive impact of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill, which addressed many long-term issues for farmers.  More is needed, included final passage of a Farm Bill.

We also provided an important update on screwworm prevention efforts—a serious concern for Texas livestock producers. Thanks to continued coordination, we’re staying ahead of the threat, but it’s a reminder of how quickly one challenge can ripple through the food supply if we’re not proactive.

The Texas Farm Bureau plays a vital role in ensuring agricultural voices are heard at every level. As a representative of rural communities, I’ll continue working with our farmers and ranchers to keep East Texas agriculture strong and rooted in the values that built our state.

Last week I spoke on a panel hosted by the Tyler Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, where I joined Chairman Kevin Eltife, Judge Neal Franklin, Tom Trimble, and Brian Brandt who facilitated the conversation. We covered regionalism and how East Texas can work together across communities to create long-term opportunities for growth.

It was an engaging, solutions-focused discussion covering everything from federal advocacy to how we can better leverage foreign investment and innovation in our part of the state. One key point we highlighted was Texas’s role as a global destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). With 35 trade zones and more than 1,900 foreign corporations operating in the state, Texas continues to lead the nation in attracting international business. That growth brings new jobs, economic diversity, and stronger partnerships across borders, all to the benefit of East Texas. It’s no surprise Texas has been one of the top U.S. destinations for FDI over the past two decades.

Together we are building regional momentum and securing a future that keeps East Texas competitive, connected, and true to who we are.

Honoring the Past: A Visit to the New London Museum

I also spent a solemn, but meaningful afternoon at the New London Museum. This visit was a reminder of one of the most tragic events in Texas history. In 1937, an explosion occurred at New London High School, now known as West Rusk High School, and claimed the lives of nearly 300 students and teachers. Walking through the museum, it’s impossible not to be moved by the stories, photographs, and artifacts that bring this devastating day to life.

The museum serves not only as a memorial, but also as an important educational resource. Through its exhibits, I was reminded how this tragedy led to major changes in safety standards across the country, particularly in how natural gas is handled and regulated. These changes have undoubtedly saved countless lives since. I am grateful to the incredible museum staff for their commitment to preserving this history and share it with future generations.

Fueling Progress in Carthage

Voyager Midstream welcomed us to their Carthage facility to learn more about the midstream sector. It is an essential but often overlooked part of our energy infrastructure. Through gathering, processing, and transportation, midstream services are the crucial link keeping the entire energy supply chain moving.

Voyager is doing impressive work here in East Texas, helping deliver natural gas efficiently and responsibly across the region and beyond. It’s clear innovation and reliability are at the heart of everything they do.

It’s encouraging to see companies leading the way in building the infrastructure we’ll need to meet tomorrow’s demands. East Texas continues to play a vital role in powering not just our state, but the entire nation.

Powering the Industry with East Texas Grit

This week I had the opportunity to tour Thomas Oilfield Services, a company with deep roots in East Texas and a strong reputation across the energy sector. They assist countless individuals with oilfield rental equipment and professional trucking service all while ensuring top quality and service.

It was great to hear from employees about the skills, dedication, and safety measures that go into the job. It’s companies like this that form the backbone of the industry, keeping things running with professionalism and care.

Their mission—Dependability, Honesty, Integrity, and Safety—aren’t just words on a wall. They help guide the company’s mission. We’re proud to have this kind of leadership here in East Texas. With top talent and hard work, Thomas Oilfield Services will continue to lead our community in the years to come.

Moran in the Media