Foundation Staff

Raised in Colmesneil, Texas, Andrew Harmon has built his career around supporting the rural communities that shaped him. Growing up in a small East Texas town gave him a firsthand understanding of what rural places need to survive and grow – strong infrastructure, practical planning, and people willing to show up and do the work. He is a first-generation college graduate of the University of Texas at Austin.  

His interest in public service began through early experience volunteering with the office of U.S. Congressman Brian Babin. Andrew then began his career in Tyler County government immediately following college, working on local infrastructure and grant-funded community projects. He later worked at the Texas General Land Office on community development and disaster recovery efforts before joining the Deep East Texas Council of Governments (DETCOG). 

He currently serves as the Assistant Executive Director at DETCOG, where he helps lead regional work focused on transportation, broadband, and economic development. His role included representing county governments in 12 East Texas counties, coordinating across counties and cities, managing state and federal grants, and working with partners to turn local needs into real, fundable projects. 

Andrew is known for taking a practical, boots-on-the-ground approach to regional work. A growing part of his focus is helping rural communities get ready for growth by improving infrastructure and preparing sites so they can compete for jobs and investment. At the core of his work is making sure rural communities have a fair shot to succeed.