Texas is a state that has experienced steady growth in the labor force and record high levels of jobs. However, there are uncertainties looming on the horizon, such as technological advancements and the impacts of climate change. These factors raise questions about how the jobs of the future will look different in Texas, including whether oil and gas will remain dominant and if the tech industry will continue to thrive. In this article, Texas Standard is examining some of the state’s key industries to provide insight into their future trajectory in The Future of Work in Texas.

One industry that has undergone significant changes over the years is agriculture. In the 1950s, 10% of American workers were engaged in agriculture, a figure that has now decreased to less than 1%. This decline has posed challenges for small farms in Texas, as they struggle to find the necessary labor, particularly during long, hot summers. As a result, there is a growing question about whether indoor farming methods will become more prevalent in Texas’ agricultural sector.

The transitioning energy landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for Texas’ workforce. Despite traditional dominance by oil and gas, experts believe that many workers with transferable skills can apply them to new energy jobs. Additionally, significant investments are being made by chipmakers to enhance national security and bolster the US semiconductor industry in Texas, creating job opportunities in this field.

While some areas of Texas have experienced population booms, other communities have seen a decline due to demographic shifts. This raises questions about the economic viability and future workforce of these shrinking counties. Furthermore, with a younger population than the national average, attention must be paid towards preparing Texas’ future workforce for emerging jobs in various fields such as technology or renewable energy sources.

In conclusion, it is clear that significant changes are occurring within various industries across Texas – prompting us to examine closely what lies ahead for our state’s workforce. By understanding these evolving job landscapes and technological advancements Texans can adapt and prepare themselves for opportunities while navigating challenges that may arise from these shifts