Having spent time in the Texas capitol working for a wide range of bipartisan members from different backgrounds and areas of the state has greatly enhanced my ability to learn the ways of the capitol world from multiple vantage points. My time as chief of staff to former House Appropriations Chairman Jim Pitts was incredibly valuable and allowed me to learn how the state budget is crafted. I appreciate and value my time as general manager and co-owner of a chain of retail stores, where I gained experience managing employees, operations, budgets, suppliers, customers, and everything in between. That experience gives me a unique insight into business operations that is often unique for many people who work within the Texas capitol. Additionally, the experience of growing up with two educators for parents has motivated me to stay involved in the public education policy space and to be mindful of the interaction between education, workforce development, and economic prosperity