TARRANT COUNTY, Texas (February 13, 2025) – After a nationwide search, the Workforce Leadership Committee, with endorsement from the Workforce Development and Workforce Governing Board has selected Robert Sturns as the next Executive Director of Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County (WSTC). Mr. Sturns will start his new role with WSTC in March of 2025 until that date, Jill Navarrete will serve as the Interim Executive Director.
Robert is a proven executive leader with over 30 years’ experience in both the public and private sectors. Mr. Sturns has demonstrated excellence in consensus building, board governance, organizational strategy, collaboration, relationship management, and developing high performing teams.
In his previous role as Economic Development Director for the City of Fort Worth, he had a successful track record of driving new capital investment within highly competitive environments resulting in over $6.4 billion of new investment and 34,000 jobs announced. He has been responsible for the implementation of a number of innovative programs including the establishment of a Medical Innovation District and designation of a Media Production Development Zone to enhance growth opportunities in the life sciences and media production sectors.
Robert holds a Master of Business Administration from Texas Christian University and a Bachelor of Arts from Stephen F. Austin State University. In addition, he is an alumnus of the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School Leading Economic Growth Program and proud former officer in the United States Army Reserve.
“We are thrilled to welcome Robert to the team,” said Tyrone Taylor, Workforce Development Board Chair. “His leadership in economic development, combined with his vision for workforce innovation, will be invaluable as we continue to build a skilled and dynamic workforce in Tarrant County. One that drives regional economic success and helps bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.”
“I look forward to joining the team at Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County, and continue to serve a region that I already know and love through a new economic development lens,” said Robert. “While Tarrant County’s growth over the past decade has been a key driver in bringing new economic investment to the area, a highly-skilled workforce is critical to maintaining that momentum, and I’m eager to work with partners and stakeholders across the region to build on that success.”
