State of the Community: Workforce & Business Outlook

NORTH TEXAS SHRM 

State of the Community: Workforce & Business Outlook

Thursday, March 19, 2026: 10:45 am - 1:00 pm CT

Embassy Suites Denton Convention Center
3100 Town Center Tr, Denton, TX 76201

10:45 am to 11:00 am Check-In
11:00 am to 11:30am Lunch Service
11:30 am to 1:00 pm Panel Discussion

What’s happening in our local workforce and what should employers be preparing for next?

Join North Texas SHRM for a State of the Community conversation featuring leaders from Denton County, local cities, and the Chamber of Commerce. This interactive panel will share real-time insight into workforce trends, economic growth, and community priorities shaping how organizations attract, retain, and support talent.

The event is open to everyone-not just HR professionals-and offers value for all attendees.  This event is designed to give HR and business leaders clarity, context, and connection.

What You’ll Learn

MEET OUR PANELISTS

Denton County Judge Andy Eads

The Honorable Andy Eads is a native Texan and fifth-generation resident of Denton County. He received his BBA from Howard Payne University and MPA from the University of North Texas. He began his public service career in the Town of Addison where he researched and authored the book "Addison, Texas: A Pictorial History." Following, the Honorable Andy Eads served as County Commissioner Precinct 4 for the Denton County Commissioners Court for 11 years. Today, he serves his community in his second term as Denton County Judge. Judge Eads serves others with principle, grit, and kindness. He enjoys spending time with his family, volunteering his time, and mentoring to others.

Denton Mayor Gerard Hudspeth

Gerard Hudspeth has been the Mayor of Denton, Texas since 2020. He is a graduate of North Central Texas College and the University of North Texas and has a strong background in public service and community involvement. Hudspeth has been active in various civic organizations and has a passion for helping at-risk children through his volunteer work with CASA and Mentor Denton. He is also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Denton Breakfast Kiwanis, and the Denton Chamber of Commerce. Professionally he works for Making It Simple, experts in data security and storage.

Lewisville Mayor TJ Gilmore

TJ Gilmore, a Lewisville resident since 2001, is a dedicated public servant, husband to Tanya, and father to Bridget, Thomas, and William. TJ grew up in Yuma, Arizona, and is a graduate of the University of Arizona with a degree Social and Behavioral Sciences with a Business minor.

Serving on city council since 2011, TJ was elected Mayor of Lewisville in 2021 and re-elected in 2024. He actively represents the community across numerous civic boards and councils, including the Executive Board of the COG. TJ’s long-standing commitment to public service includes roles in transportation, economic development, public safety, native plant restoration and youth leadership, reflecting his passion for responsive and collaborative local government.

In his free time TJ and Tanya enjoy visiting mid-century modern houses and, according to Tanya, TJ likes to collect hobbies, and hats.

Erin Carney, CCE, IOM

President, Denton Chamber of Commerce

Erin Carney is the President of the Denton Chamber of Commerce. Carney is a chamber veteran who served as the Metrocrest Chamber President from 2016-2021. Before leading the Metrocrest Chamber, she served the Lewisville Chamber of Commerce as its Events & Communications Director and its Vice President of Program Development. Carney currently serves as Chair of the Winter Institute Board of Regents for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Trustee of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Board Member of the North Texas Commission, Secretary of the Carrollton-Farmers Branch Rotary Club, Board Member of the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD Educational Foundation and Board Member of the Lewisville ISD Education Foundation.

Jamie Adams

Director, Denton Economic Development Partnerships

Leading the Denton Economic Development Partnerships as the Strategic Director. Focus is on building relationships, business retention and expansion, as well as Business to business networking. Previously, I was a leader with a proven track record, and over 25 years of experience in building, leading, and managing successful cross functional teams in complex and high pressure environments at the Division 1 Athletics level (University of North Texas, University of Southern Mississippi). Highly skilled in marketing, sponsorships, social media, budgeting, ticket sales, licensing, branding and external services. Effective and confident communicator with excellent interpersonal presentation skills. Proven ability to develop positive working relationships with coaches, staff, and diverse campus constituents.