Midland College's Pete Avalos has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the Texas Association of College Technical Educators (TACTE). Avalos, who serves as the Dean of Applied Technology at Midland College, will begin his two-year term helping guide the organization's mission to strengthen workforce education throughout Texas.
TACTE is a professional organization focused on improving workforce education in response to the evolving demands of today’s job market. It supports community and technical colleges across the state by promoting best practices and offering valuable services to educators and administrators.
“I am truly honored and humbled to have been selected to the TACTE Board of Directors,” Avalos said. “It’s really exciting to be able to work with such a talented group of people who have an impact on CTE programs across the state, making decisions that impact not only the local communities, but students as well.”
According to a news release by the college, Avalos has long been dedicated to workforce training. His appointment follows recent recognition of Midland College’s Natural Gas Compression program as a TACTE Program of Excellence. The award honors programs that demonstrate innovation, dedication, and a meaningful impact on both education and industry.
The TACTE selection committee highlighted the program for its efforts in providing hands-on, relevant training that aligns with the needs of the energy sector. Under Avalos’ leadership, the program has become a model for how colleges can effectively bridge education and industry, particularly in the energy-rich Permian Basin.
"Pete’s appointment is a well-deserved recognition of his leadership and his program’s success in preparing students for real-world careers," said Dr. Damon Kennedy, President of Midland College. "As Texas faces a critical shortage of skilled trade workers, leaders like Pete play a vital role in shaping conversations around workforce readiness. Early exposure to career and technical education is key to helping young people discover meaningful, well-paying career paths that are essential to the state’s economic future. By encouraging conversations with students about the value of CTE, we help break outdated stigmas and open doors to opportunities that serve both individuals and communities."
Avalos’ appointment to the TACTE Board is an important step in Midland College’s continued efforts to enhance workforce education in Texas. As a board member, he will help support initiatives that empower students, strengthen communities, and meet the needs of today’s job market.
Through his leadership at Midland College and now at TACTE, Avalos will continue to advocate for effective workforce training programs that equip students with the skills needed for successful careers. His appointment highlights the growing importance of career and technical education (CTE) in addressing workforce shortages and supporting the state’s economy.