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I analyze policy with a focus on how decisions are made and who they affect. My work connects high-level policy decisions to their practical consequences.

I specialize in workforce programs, regulatory interpretation, and state program evaluation, with experience advising on funding decisions affecting colleges and employers, and a background in legislative research and budget support in Texas and Louisiana. My writing centers on how governmental systems implement policy, and the importance of alignment with the original intent of a law or regulation.

Experience

  • Grant Specialist III and Program Specialist III, Texas Workforce Commission (2021-2025): managed the grant lifecycle and evaluated statewide workforce grant proposals for community colleges and employers, interpreting program rules and advising on compliance.

  • Director of Governmental Affairs, Restart Louisiana (2017): conducted policy research and worked with state legislators to advance a resolution seeking a study on establishing a residential reentry center.

  • Management Intern, Office of Planning and Budget, Louisiana Division of Administration (2015-2016): supported the Governor’s Executive Budget and tracked corrections-related legislation.

  • Legislative Bill Analyst and Capstone Fellow, Texas House of Representatives (2015): analyzed legislation across appropriations, transportation, and human services.

  • Earlier, I got my start in the political process, with grassroots and voter-outreach work on congressional and state campaigns, and internships in the office of U.S. Senator Jon Kyl and the White House Office of Presidential Personnel.

Education

  • Master of Public Service and Administration (MPSA), The George H. W. Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University, 2015

  • Bachelor of Science in Political Science, summa cum laude, Barrett, The Honors College, Arizona State University, 2012

Certifications

  • Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) & Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD)

    Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Original

    Issue Date: October 1, 2025 | Expiration Date: October 1, 2028

Contact

blake@policyfieldnotes.com

About Blake Dodd