Our Mission
Founded by Ian Fanning and Dean Bayliss, Texas Skill Development Group will be dedicated to building a more reliable construction workforce in Austin. We aim to partner with contractors to assess and develop new starters in a controlled, practical environment before they join your team.
Ian Fanning
Co-Founder & Managing Member
Contractor Relations
Specializing in contractor partnerships and business development, Ian brings more than 20 years of commercial and leadership experience.
In his role in the UK at Network Rail, Ian has led significant commercial activities across major rail operational categories, with a strong focus on strategic change, stakeholder engagement and delivering practical business improvement.
One of Ian's key achievement was leading the introduction of reused track ballast on the UK rail infrastructure, a project that received industry recognition for recycling and sustainability.
Within TSDG, Ian leads contractor relationships, commercial strategy and business development, helping ensure the business remains closely aligned with the needs of the construction industry.
Dean Bayliss
Co-Founder & Managing Member
Operations Lead
Dean brings more than 20 years of construction experience, combining hands-on site leadership with more than a decade running his own building and landscaping business.
Earlier in his career, Dean spent eight years as a site foreman, overseeing teams of 10-15 people across a wide range of projects, from high-end residential developments to large-scale commercial construction and specialist work on schools and football stadiums. His responsibilities included coordinating multiple trades, managing site teams, maintaining quality standards and ensuring projects progressed efficiently.
A particular strength throughout Dean's career has been developing new entrants into the industry. He has substantial experience mentoring apprentices and helping entry-level workers build the practical skills, confidence and work ethic needed to become reliable members of a construction team.
Within TSDG, Dean leads the practical and operational side of the business, including programme delivery, participant development, instructor coordination, facility operations and training safety.
