Hector Gonzales is the Community Outreach Manager for Coastal Watch Association (CWA), where he leads community engagement efforts that empower residents to advocate for clean air, clean water, and healthier communities across the Texas Coastal Bend. A lifelong Coastal Bend resident, devoted father, volunteer firefighter, and community advocate, Hector is passionate about building meaningful relationships and ensuring that every community member has the opportunity to participate in decisions that affect their health, environment, and future.
Drawing on his background in industrial construction, Hector brings firsthand knowledge of the region’s industrial landscape and the importance of balancing economic opportunity with environmental responsibility. His unique perspective allows him to connect with residents, industry workers, and local leaders while fostering productive conversations about public health, environmental stewardship, and community resilience.
Hector is the founder of the Native American Church of the Coastal Bend, where he works to preserve Indigenous traditions, promote cultural education, and support individuals and families through recovery programs, traditional ceremonies, and community service. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to protecting both the natural environment and the cultural heritage of the Coastal Bend.
At Coastal Watch Association, Hector organizes educational workshops, community meetings, outreach events, and volunteer initiatives that increase environmental awareness and civic participation. He helps residents understand complex industrial permitting processes, encourages meaningful public engagement, and works alongside local organizations to ensure community voices are represented in environmental decision-making.
Whether serving his community as a volunteer firefighter, mentoring local residents, or advocating for environmental justice, Hector is driven by a belief that lasting change begins with informed, engaged communities. His work focuses on creating partnerships that strengthen public health, protect natural resources, and leave a healthier, more resilient Coastal Bend for future generations.
