Tamara Atkinson Joins Goodwill Central Texas to Lead Workforce Development Initiatives

Tamara Atkinson Joins Goodwill Central Texas as a Key Executive

In an exciting development for workforce advancement, Goodwill Central Texas has announced that Tamara Atkinson will be joining their executive team this fall. Effective October 29, 2025, Atkinson, who has served as the CEO of Workforce Solutions Capital Area since 2016, will take on the role of Chief Impact Officer and President of Workforce Advancement Strategy. Her arrival is expected to be a pivotal moment for the organization, significantly enhancing their mission to uplift lives through education and work.

Rob Neville, the President and CEO of Goodwill Central Texas, emphasized the importance of Atkinson's leadership, stating, "Tamara's arrival marks a pivotal moment for Goodwill Central Texas. She's not just joining our team; she's helping to lead a movement." He stressed Atkinson's proven expertise in workforce development and her strong commitment to the community, noting that her leadership will amplify the organization's ability to transform lives.

Atkinson’s extensive experience in workforce development positions her to make an immediate impact. Her primary focus will be to expand access to workforce advancement services and to shape innovative partnerships that lead to quality, future-ready careers for individuals in underserved communities. The goal is to not only double the organization's mission reach but to fundamentally change how workforce services are delivered to ensure they are accessible and effective.

Upon her appointment, Atkinson reflected on her passion for education and workforce advancement. She stated, "I am honored to join Goodwill Central Texas to expand community partnerships and reimagined, state-of-the-art workforce and education delivery services." Her background as a teacher and school administrator coupled with her 25 years of dedication to helping Central Texans align closely with Goodwill's commitment to providing robust services, demonstrating a unique synergy between her professional journey and the organization's mission.

Guided by principles of Caring, Innovation, and Accountability, Goodwill Central Texas aspires to create a thriving environment for all Central Texans. The organization is committed to meeting the workforce needs of its communities through sustainable practices and bold innovations. This vision includes driving social and economic change throughout its 15-county service area.

Atkinson's appointment comes at a transitional time for Workforce Solutions Capital Area. On September 19, 2025, Atkinson will conclude her 25-year tenure with the organization, paving the way for Yael Lawson, the previous Chief Operations Officer, to step in as the Interim CEO. This transition reflects the organization's commitment to continuity and stability in leadership as they prepare for the future.

Goodwill Central Texas proudly serves over 10,000 individuals annually who face barriers to employment through its mission-driven initiatives. These include job navigation assistance, career training via the Goodwill Career and Technical Advancement Academy (GCTA), and adult high school education at The Excel Center. As one of the region's largest employers, Goodwill Central Texas emphasizes sustainability, with nearly 80% of donations being diverted from landfills and a goal to reach 90%. A significant portion of the revenue generated from the 40 stores and outlets in the Greater Austin area funds the organization's free services and community programs.

In conclusion, Tamara Atkinson's joining Goodwill Central Texas heralds a new chapter in the organization's commitment to disrupt barriers to education and employment, emerging as a catalyst for social change and community development. With her exceptional track record and community relationships, Atkinson is poised to champion the needs of the workforce and facilitate meaningful advancements that will empower the community as a whole.