Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas has announced the retirement of Chief Executive Officer Mary Ross, effective April 30, 2025. The Board of Directors has named Dr. Amelia Reeves as the organization’s new CEO, effective May 1, 2025.
Ms. Ross has served as CEO since inception of the local Workforce Development Board in 1997. During her remarkable 28 year tenure, Mary’s leadership paved the way for local grantmaking through the Workforce Investment Fund, support for entrepreneurship through the West Texas Innovation Network, establishment of a non-profit corporation, expansion of local service delivery in rural communities, and development of multiple industry sector and next generation cross-sector partnerships including the Big Country Manufacturing Alliance (BCMA).
“It has been a blessing and honor to serve with so many dedicated volunteer Board members, supportive elective officials and talented staff during my tenure as CEO. Along with our many partners in economic development, education and community organizations, we have supported business growth and economic stability for many families,” said outgoing CEO Mary Ross. “I am excited about the selection of Dr. Reeves as CEO and know she will lead the organization forward to even greater successes.”
The incoming CEO, Dr. Amelia Reeves, currently serves as Chief Partnerships Officer for Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas. She brings a wealth of leadership experience into the CEO role with a strong track record of spearheading innovative approaches to talent pipeline development and strategic solutions to the most pressing labor force challenges facing rural communities. The Board is confident that Dr. Reeves’ vision and expertise will lead Workforce Solutions into its next chapter.
“I’m honored to step into the CEO role and build on the strong foundation laid by Mary Ross, whose leadership has positioned Workforce Solutions as a trusted partner across our region. This work is deeply personal to me because it’s about creating real opportunities for the people and communities I’ve always called home,” said Dr. Reeves. “I’m committed to leading with purpose and a clear focus on strengthening partnerships, expanding career pathways, and ensuring our strategies support a skilled workforce and a thriving regional economy.”
The organization is committed to a smooth leadership transition, and Mary Ross will remain in an advisory role through May 31st to ensure continuity.