Houston Business Journal – Most Admired CEO 2026

Employees Share One Word That Describes Fazio Hale's Leadership Style

Liz Fazio Hale has been named one of Houston Business Journal's Most Admired CEOs for 2026, recognizing her leadership and contributions to the Gulf Coast Authority. The words below offer a glimpse into the qualities that define her leadership and impact.

Rosa Rivera, HR Assistant - "Inspirational"

She conveys leadership, strength, and the ability to motivate others.

Gabby De Los Santos, Employee Engagement Administrator - "Visionary"

Because she sees beyond the present, has a clear vision for the future, and inspires others to work toward that vision. She leads with purpose, embraces new ideas, and encourages people to grow and achieve more.

Steve Poling, Senior Compliance Coordinator - "Innovative"

I have never been at a company that works so diligently to develop leaders.

Ben Reese, Assistant Facility Manager - "Dynamic"

Liz's Dynamic leadership has provided the perfect blend of youthful ambition and strategic agility, keeping our team inspired and ahead of the curve through a fast-paced era of transition.

Michael Tijerina, Electrician - "HOOKEM!"

Liz brings the Texas Longhorn leadership to GCA!!!

Sheckeita Eaglin, Administrative Assistant - "Steadfast"

Remains loyal to the organization's mission and values.

Chris Levy, Compliance Coordinator - "Intentional."

Liz is always asking, why? Asking the right questions at the right time can take a company from good to great. I believe she has succeeded with that goal.

Anthony Minjarez, Chief Operator - "Exemplary"

She is a model leader Authority wide

Diane Briones, Administrative Assistant - "Inspirational"

Liz is great at motivating others through integrity and positivity. She leads with an unwavering commitment to helping the team succeed.

Drew Hutto, Purchasing Coordinator - "Collaborative"

Liz's career is defined by bringing opposing sides together. She leads an organization explicitly designed to balance environmental protection with industrial and economic development, uniting local municipalities, state legislators, and industrial giants around a single water infrastructure vision. She frequently frames her executive success through the lens of civility, mutual respect, and mentorship, explicitly calling herself the "proud leader of an amazing team."

Sean Otmishi, IT Operations Coordinator - "Empathy"

As a newer employee, I have appreciated how Liz makes people feel welcomed and valued. Taking the time to express appreciation and recognizing personal milestones reflects a genuine care for individuals, which is why I chose Empathy.

Gerardo Ramos, Safety & Health Lead - "Supportive"

Our CEO demonstrates a leadership style that genuinely cares about employees' growth, success, and well-being. Liz actively supports your development, ensures that your achievements are recognized, and consistently shows concern for you and your family.

Janie Gomez, Administrative Assistant - "Impactful"

Liz's leadership has made a meaningful impact throughout GCA. She leads with purpose, encourages growth and innovation, and continues to move the organization forward while remaining committed to GCA's mission, employees, and the communities we serve.

Berenice Paredones, Documents Assistant - "Warm"

She's warm, approachable, and genuinely interested in helping people.

Samantha Cowan, Administrative Assistant - "Inspirational"

Liz leads by example and motivates the team to do their best.

Anita Higgins, Administrative Assistant - "Invested"

She leads by connecting with her employees by engaging, listening to their thoughts and suggestions and life events, and being approachable herself.

Kenneth Gasaway, I&E Lead - "Motivated"

She is determined to improve the organization.

Jevonne Bass, Quality Assurance Manager - "Progressive"

Liz has shown to be a forward thinker and has revitalized the culture of GCA by sharing progressive ideas and viewpoints.

Angel Grandez, Talent and Benefits Coordinator - "Visionary, Empowering , Authentic"

Visionary - sets a clear direction and inspires innovation. Empowering - trusts and develops others to succeed. Authentic - leads with integrity, transparency, and genuine care.

David Simmons, Reliability Engineer - "Team-oriented"

My one-word description for Liz is team-oriented because with every interaction that I have had with Liz she always speaks or is taking action that is for the betterment of the team (entire organization, and the actual people /co-workers of our organization), not doing something or speaking in a way that seems self-motivated or out of a self-centered perspective.

Kevin Davenport, IT Director - "Open"

I describe Liz as open because she genuinely listens to new ideas and different perspectives. She is willing to reconsider hers and the authority's approach when circumstances change or new information becomes available, rather than being tied to the way things have always been done.

John Mletzko, Operations Supervisor - "Futurist"

Liz is always looking far beyond problems we might face today and has her eyes on bettering us for the future.

Drew Castillo, Operations Supervisor - "Catalyst"

I chose the word catalyst because Liz created an opportunity that had a lasting impact on my career. Their confidence, initiative, and willingness to take action helped open a door for me that ultimately changed my professional path.

Austin Springer, Operator - "Empowering"

She trusts individuals to make big decisions while providing the support they need to succeed.

David Davis, Network Administrator - "Dedicated"

She consistently shows her dedication to GCA, its operations, core principles, mission, customers, and most of all, to the employees of GCA. Thank you, Liz, for everything you do and Congratulations.

Abel Salazar. Chief Operator - "Trustworthy"

If Liz tells you she is going to look into something, she doesn't just say that. She follows through and tries to get the best result possible.

Jonathan Duque, Operator III - "Altruistic"

She has always demonstrated a genuine concern for the well-being of others, consistently putting their needs before her own and leading by example through her compassion, generosity, and selflessness.

Mark Garcia, Operator - "Visionary"

Mrs. Liz Fazio is a visionary who sees opportunities not only for GCA, but also for the growth and success of her employees. And I appreciate her annual visits to the Blackhawk facility and the opportunity to talk with her.

Carolina B. Mendez, Senior Project Engineer - "Trailblazer"

Liz is a true trailblazer! She leads with compassion, inspires our team to challenge the status quo, and creates meaningful opportunities for personal growth. She makes me feel valued, empowered, and confident that my contributions make a difference in advancing GCA's mission to protect the waters of Texas.

Garrett Clark, Regional Facility Manager - "Visionary"

Liz anticipates future challenges and opportunities and creates a direction for GCA.

Rachel Cunningham, Compliance Coordinator - "Visionary"

I admire Liz's visionary leadership and her commitment to planning for the future. Through a variety of company-wide initiatives, she has demonstrated a strong dedication to GCA's long-term growth and development. As an employee, it is reassuring to see a leader who is invested in the organization's mission and future success. She encourages innovation and creative problem-solving at every level, while fostering a forward-thinking, goal-oriented culture that empowers employees to contribute to meaningful progress. Additionally, as a woman, it's inspiring to see her leadership, success, and impact on GCA and beyond.

Maria Montoya, HR Generalist - "Visionary"

She looks beyond day-to-day operations to anticipate future challenges and opportunities to position our organization for continual success.

Curtis Young, Chief Operator - "Awesome"

She involves everyone and makes us feel heard and valued. She's very approachable and polite. It feels good to have someone in her position that you feel you can voice your opinion to and it matters.

Jeff Nuss, Operations Supervisor - "Sharp"

I have witnessed GCA grow throughout her career at a pace that the entire staff accepts.

Damion McClendon, Operator II - "Influential"

Because a strong leader inspires others, sets the example, and motivates people to work toward a common goal.

Alexa Macios Castro, Senior Accountant - "Inspiring"

Liz inspires others through her passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Brandon McDonald, Data Base Coordinator - "Innovative"

Liz has been improving the Authority since she was hired. She's always pushing for new and better ways to do things. She's very forward-thinking. The authority has needed that.

Justin Allen, Data Base Coordinator - "Caring"

Out of all the places I've worked, including my earlier years at this company before Liz's leadership, I've never been at a company where the CEO takes the time to have small-group lunches with employees. She uses those lunches to keep us informed about what's happening throughout the company, but more importantly, to hear our complaints, concerns, and ideas. To me, that shows a CEO who genuinely cares about the people who keep the company running. It makes employees feel heard and valued, rather than feeling like leadership is disconnected from the people doing the day-to-day work.

Shannon Hubbard, Compliance Coordinator - "Cultivator"

This word captures Liz accurately. Liz is a cultivator because she creates opportunities, nurtures potential, and gives employees the chance to grow and succeed. Her willingness to invest in people has made a meaningful difference in many careers, especially my own:).

Kevin Smith, Safety Director - "Empowering"

She creates a space that welcomes new ideas and encourages personal growth.

Yamilet Garcia, Conventional Chemist - "Dynamic"

Liz has high energy, is a driving force, and has the ability to inspire rapid change that leads to company forward.

Clarisa Ledesma, Administrative Assistant - "Visionary"

Liz sees where this organization needs to go and plans for the future.

Jesse Sandoval, Operations Supervisor - "Inspiring"

Her knowledge of what we do here surpasses just treating water. Her hands on involvement at the end of the day makes you feel like you are part of a superb team.

Michael Morris, Maintenance Supervisor - "Fair"

Liz takes the time to listen and hear you as an individual, and the team whole, to do what's best for all. I have appreciated her leadership. Thanks!

Lingmei Ma, Organic Coordinator Assistant - "Influence, inspirational, empathetic, visionary."

She sets a powerful, long-term direction for GCA, and caring for employees by sharing ideas clearly, listening actively, and encouraging open conversations. She always provides resources, and freedom for employees to take ownership and focuses on our GCA core values consistently.

Prashant Mehta - "Visionary "

Her In-depth knowledge and hard work is apparent in everything she does.

Sam Minjarez, Chief Operator - "Impactful"

"Liz's leadership goes beyond guiding the organization, she inspires people to take pride in their work and strive for excellence. Her dedication to GCA and its employees is something we can all appreciate."

John Miller, Compliance Coordinator - "Deliberate"

She seems to fully consider the plans she has for GCA's future.

Stephen McLemore, Director of Innovation & Technology - "Pioneering"

Liz is the complete package when it comes to leadership, which makes it difficult to describe her with just one word. I chose pioneering because she is a focused, future-oriented leader who consistently looks ahead and embraces change. She navigates an ever-evolving landscape with agility and confidence, turning challenges and shifting priorities into momentum rather than obstacles. What stands out most is her ability to empower those around her. She creates an environment where her team feels encouraged to think creatively, challenge conventional approaches, and continuously raise the bar. Through her leadership, people are inspired to develop new ideas, pursue higher standards, and grow both professionally and personally. Liz doesn't just adapt to change; she helps others see opportunity in it and leads the way forward. Liz exemplifies what separates great leaders from good ones. True leadership is not defined by what a person can accomplish alone, but by how they inspire, develop, and empower others to achieve more than they thought possible. Her impact is measured not only by her own success, but by the growth, achievements, and confidence she cultivates in those around her.

Eduardo Carrillo, Chief Operator - "Intelligent"

Intelligent, always looking for ways to improve.

Miah Montes, Lab Operations Coordinator - "Grounded"

She's practical, resilient and determined. She is straightforward and blunt, but it all comes from a space built for growth and improvement.

Lisa McDonald, Lab Compliance Coordinator - "Inspiring"

She has such a positive energy. It motivates everyone around her to bring their best.

Keith S. Hardcastle, HR Director - "Visionary"

Liz has advanced the Gulf Coast Authority brand like none other. Her forward-thinking and proactive leadership has shaped GCA's present and future endeavors. She has instilled in all of us the true mission is to protect the waters of Texas and as a result, we live it every day alongside her.

Albert Smith III, Operator II - "Blessed"

Her integrity & compassion and interaction with her employees & the authority is a blessing

Chuck Williston, Chief Operator - "Empathy-Clear Communication!"

She understands the experiences of others and explains decisions simply while articulating her vision for the company all while actively listening to other's concerns! She's a Rockstar!

Lisa Brasher, Executive Assistant - "Inspiring"

Since day one, she has inspired and motivated others to do their best, both for the Authority and in their personal growth, always encouraging us to be our best selves.

Veronica Rocha, Accountant - "Empowering"

I chose empowering because her leadership style trusts team members with autonomy and growth. And her trust has given me the confidence to take on new challenges and grow in my role.

Keith Campbell, Chief Operator - "Vision"

Liz is constantly seeking opportunities to strengthen the company and prepare it for what's next.

Christopher Callaway, Operator III - "Persistent"

She remembers the things in her "parking lot" and acts on them when possible. Lots of people talk about circling back to things but never do. Liz will remember and come back to things in good time.

Jaime Valdez Jr., Mechanic Lead - "Open-door-leader"

Liz encourages employees to speak openly and feels easy to approach.

John Jackson, 40-Acre Facility Manager - "Inspring"

Liz has a strong focus on employee empowerment throughout the organization. She makes it a priority to ensure every employee's voice is heard and give everyone an opportunity to step up and be involved in decisions. In addition, her dedication to her work and her commitment to leading by example help inspire all of us.

Carl Hennagir, Compliance Supervisor - "Impactful"

Because Liz engages GCA personnel, has an interested curiosity, is thoughtful, emphasizes sharing, is accountable, and is interested in building up others for future growth. Impactful leaders in business are embodied by these characteristics.

Anna Brown, Blackhawk Facility Manager - "Impactful"

Liz's leadership has been impactful, creating positive changes throughout the organization.

Carlos Robledo, Chief Operator - "Visionary"

She sees the bigger picture and lights the path forward.

Ana Castilla, Lab Operations Supervisor - "Compassionate"

Liz constantly supports her GCA team and shows genuine care for us as individuals.

Les Emswiler, Senior Project Engineer - "Encouraging"

Liz recognizes accomplishments and encourages individual strengths of the whole team.

Lew Gailey, Bayport Facility Manager - "Authentic"

She is a visionary leader whose authenticity, transparency, and genuine care for employees have earned the trust and respect of those she leads. By creating an environment where people feel valued and supported, she has fostered a culture of engagement, growth, and sustained success.

Denise Ehrlich, Washburn Tunnel Facility Manager - "Impactful"

Liz works to make meaningful change, engaging stakeholders early on to understand the potential challenges to ensure that success is achieved.

Thuy Doan, Financial Administrator - "Empowering"

Liz recognizes employees' talents, strengths and gives them opportunities to grow into leadership roles.

Judith Rosado, Financial Director - "Strategic!"

Liz sees the bigger picture. She has vision, sound judgment, and the ability to lead GCA toward meaningful long-term success.

Darla Fogie, Central Lab Facility Manager - "Empowerment"

She has confidence in the leaders she has chosen and trusts us to lead. She gives us the freedom to make decisions, take ownership, and grow, while always providing the support and guidance we need to be successful.

Phyllis Frank, Chief Technical Officer - "Commitment"

Committed to our mission, our people, our purpose and our state. That commitment shapes her strategy.

Jonathan Sandhu, Technical Director - "Driven"

Scott Harris, Chief Operating Officer - "Connected"

Liz leads with not only her connections within the Authority, but also statewide, to ensure the most favorable branding for GCA.

Valerie Hawker, Strategic Projects Assistant - "Visionary"

She sparks ideas and challenges conventional thinking..

Annika Maynard, Communications and Government Affairs Manager - "Extraordinary"

Liz has a remarkable ability to raise the ceiling wherever she goes. She continually challenges herself and those around her to think beyond what has already been accomplished and consider what more is possible. She leads with integrity and a clear sense of purpose, while empowering others with the trust and confidence to take ownership, grow and lead in their own right. Liz recognizes the strengths and contributions of those around her and has a way of making people feel that their work matters. Her leadership brings out a higher level of ambition, confidence and excellence in others, and the standard she sets inspires people to rise to meet it. She does not simply envision what is possible; she gives others the encouragement and opportunity to help make it possible.