Every Now and Then Leadership Happens

Phil Wilson, Executive Director TxDOT

Every now and then but not very often true leadership happens. It’s sad but it’s the way of the modern world - leadership stifled by today’s suffocating political climate. But when leadership does emerge it commands attention - more indelible due to its rarity. Phil Wilson, Executive Director of TxDOT, is that rare bird and Texans should be grateful for his skilled work, superior intelligence and his leadership acumen.

Phil’s efforts at TxDOT are truly transformative. He is succeeding in changing the culture of an agency that was ossified to the point of rigor. He is doing something that most experts thought could never be done. He has brought to TxDOT  an energetic, creative and entrepreneurial spirit with an ever-vigilant eye on improving the agency’s business processes.  That he is navigating this culture transformation in an agency the size of TxDOT is unique in the annals of Texas government.

When meeting with Phil Wilson one must be prepared for him to lead with a solution to your problem. He is assiduously prepared and will often surprise the most seasoned Capitol participant by his ability to zero in on the core of the issue presented him.

Let us put it like this: you will never have a vacuous meeting with Phil Wilson. If you are looking for polite platitudes, vacant gazes, clock watching countenances and hollow promises then Phil Wilson is not your guy. If you want something done and done the right way – by all means – call Phil Wilson.

Many observers were skeptical when the Texas Transportation Commission first hired Phil.  He was a political operative who spent some time as a staffer for Sen. Phil Gramm. What would he realistically be able to accomplish? Apparently a great deal – an up side with no discernible ceiling. Any skepticism about Phil has been dashed on any rock you might find whether your interests lie in multi-million dollar highway construction or bicycle education. He treats all issues big and small with equal vigor.

We are not alone in our opinions about Phil. Our opinions are shared by hundreds of Texans all over the state. We chose to make our opinions public.

We are quick to criticize our leaders. We neglect to express our gratitude (gratitude is in such short supply we might want to consider removing the word from the dictionary.)

Well, thanks Mr. Wilson for a job well done. Keep up the great work!