Colonel Terry Wilson, US Army (Ret.), has dedicated his life to service, both in military and civilian capacities. Born in Odessa, Texas, he is a decorated combat veteran with over 30 years of leadership experience in the Department of the Army. He earned a BS in Business Administration from Texas A&M University and an MS in Strategic Logistics Plans and Management from the Air War University. Following his military career, Terry transitioned to advocating for small businesses, helping them effectively navigate the complexities of government bureaucracy to deliver technological solutions to military operations.
As the State Representative for House District 20, Wilson has been actively involved in several committees, primarily focusing on defense and veterans' affairs, agriculture, and education. He serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Defense & Veterans’ Affairs, where he addresses critical issues that impact Texas veterans and military personnel, including mental health services, employment opportunities, and emergency preparedness. His efforts in this area are bolstered by his military background, as he seeks to improve the provisions and support systems for Texas veterans.
In addition to his defense advocacy, Wilson is committed to ensuring quality education and vocational training for Texas students. He has championed initiatives aimed at expanding vocational education opportunities, enabling students to graduate with useful certifications that will enhance their job readiness.
Wilson has sponsored and co-sponsored several significant bills during his legislative tenure, reflecting his priorities and interests. Notable among these are:
House Bill 982: This bill aims to empower certain taxing units to establish limitations on property taxes for low-income, elderly, or disabled residents. If enacted, it could significantly alleviate financial burdens for vulnerable populations and promote community stability.
House Bill 873: This legislation seeks to impose more stringent regulations on air quality permits for aggregate production operations and concrete batch plants, addressing growing concerns about environmental health and safety.
House Bill 245: This bill would allow military service to count as law enforcement or custodial service when calculating retirement benefits, thereby providing additional support as veterans transition into civilian careers.
Through these legislative efforts, Wilson’s political leanings can be characterized as supportive of both veterans' rights and environmental protection. His bills often prioritize the welfare of low-income individuals and strive to mitigate financial strain on vulnerable populations, while also advocating for increased accountability for industries impacting public health.
Within his personal life, Terry Wilson has been married to his wife, Shannon, for 27 years, and they have two sons who are current members of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets. The family is active in their community, attending First Baptist Church in Marble Falls, where Wilson also participates as an Assistant Scout Master.
Overall, Colonel Wilson exemplifies a commitment to service that spans across military, community, and legislative spheres, embodying a dedication to improving the lives of Texans through his comprehensive approach to policy-making and community engagement.