Tech Bloc, a San Antonio economic development nonprofit, hired former mayoral candidate Beto Altamirano as its new CEO on Tuesday.
Altamirano is still considering his political options amidst statewide redistricting.
He finished third in San Antonio’s mayoral election this year and is also the cofounder and CEO of Irys Technologies, a local tech company focused on cybersecurity and streamlining operations.
In a press release, Tech Bloc officials noted his experience in both the private and public sectors.
“Altamirano’s career bridges technology, public policy and economic development,” read the press release.
Tech Bloc was formed in 2014 to help grow San Antonio’s tech sector. The nonprofit is focused on building San Antonio’s workforce, quality of life and ability to host large companies.
“If we want to be competitive as a city, we must study and create the conditions that enable more entrepreneurs to succeed here in the Alamo City,” said Tech Bloc Board Chair Will Conway in a statement.
In his new role, Altamirano said will focus on improving digital and artificial intelligence literacy for San Antonio residents. He also wants to help bring cybersecurity, bioscience, manufacturing and AI companies to San Antonio to create accessible technology jobs.
That means partnering with local nonprofits and economic development efforts, he added.
“San Antonio has the talent, culture, and strategic position to lead, and Tech Bloc will play a key role in bringing that vision to life,” he said in a statement.
Altamirano replaces Ileana Gonzalez, who led Tech Bloc for two years before taking a job at H-E-B.
“Tech Bloc is a part-time role where I’ll be focused on nurturing and advocating for the innovation ecosystem, and I’ll continue in my role as CEO of Irys,” he said in a text message.
Altamirano is still weighing his next political move — which could include trying to help Democrats hold onto a challenging congressional seat on the city’s Southeast Side.
Last year he assembled a spirited mayoral campaign in a 27-candidate race that raised big money and attracted a number influential supporters, including former Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff.
“I’m not going anywhere. I’m 35 years old, time is on my side,” Altamirano after losing the May race.
In July he started a PAC, and after Texas’ congressional districts were redrawn, he became a potential recruit for the reshaped 35th Congressional District.
Democrats hold the seat right now, but it’s changing from an urban blue stronghold to a Republican-friendly pickup opportunity that includes Guadalupe, Wilson and Karnes counties.
Incumbent U.S. Rep. Greg Casar (D-Austin) is running for a more Austin-centric seat, and Democratic candidates have shown far less interest in the race than Republicans.
“On the political front, I remain engaged and have had community leaders reach out about CD35,” Altamirano said in a statement Tuesday. “I’m taking a close look at the race and also watching what the maps will look like.”
