As President and CEO of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, Aaron Cox helps shape the business climate that fuels the community’s growth and quality of life. For our Love Local issue, Cox shares what drew him to The Woodlands and how his vision positions the community for what’s next.
You became President & CEO of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce in September 2024. What drew you to this position?
“When making career moves, it’s about more than title or compensation—it’s about quality of life, family, and the character of the community. I explored opportunities across Texas and in other states, but very few truly stood out. The Woodlands did.
The chamber’s reputation for meaningful impact and the community’s unmistakable energy sealed the deal. The Woodlands blends the best of Austin and San Antonio—innovation, cultural vibrancy, and a deep sense of connection—yet it has its own unique rhythm. That combination made it clear this was the right place, and the right moment, to take on this role.”
Your professional path includes leadership roles with the American Cancer Society and Texas Association of Business. How have those experiences shaped your approach to leadership today?
“My work with both organizations shaped my leadership in two key ways. First, strong business growth is the foundation of a healthy community. A thriving business sector fuels jobs, resources, and investment—and those benefits ripple into education, the arts, volunteerism, and overall quality of life. Leading in that environment taught me the importance of advocating for business and ensuring someone is consistently protecting their interests and championing the issues that affect them.
Second, the Cancer Society reinforced the power of engagement. You learn quickly that every story of triumph has a challenge at its center—but people rally, and you see how deeply communities care for one another. That perspective guides how I encourage our members to stay connected through professional development, civic involvement, and shared experiences that help their businesses grow.
And here in The Woodlands, that approach fits naturally. Our chamber isn’t only made up of for-profit companies—we have nearly 150 nonprofit members whose work is woven into the fabric of this community. Embracing both sides of that membership is central to how I lead: with an understanding that business success and community wellbeing aren’t competing priorities—they strengthen each other.”
Where do you see opportunities to strengthen the business community in 2026 and beyond?
“Our biggest opportunities lie in staying ahead of AI and rapid technological change. From a chamber standpoint, that means staying true to our mission—bringing leaders together so The Woodlands remains on the leading edge.
George Mitchell’s vision shaped the first 50 years of this community, but we can’t rely on past successes. We need to prepare our young people for the workforce of tomorrow and create space for a shared, forward-looking community vision.
As The Woodlands takes its place as a regional hub for the northern Houston area, the real opportunity is to lead with intention—aligning business, education, and civic partners to drive long-term growth. If we do that well, The Woodlands won’t just influence the region—we’ll help define its future.”
We need to prepare our young people for the workforce of tomorrow and create space for a shared, forward-looking community vision.