workfaith announces
matt killian
as chief executive officer
WorkFaith (The WorkFaith Connection) announces the promotion of Matt Killian to the role of Chief Executive Officer, effective May 2, 2025. The Board of Directors unanimously approved Matt’s appointment on April 24, 2025.
Matt has been an integral part of WorkFaith since joining in 2009, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer the past five years. Matt brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role as CEO. With over 15 years of service at WorkFaith, he has demonstrated an uncompromising commitment to the organization’s mission of providing faith-based training and coaching to anyone who desires long-term employment. As Chief Operating Officer, Matt drove operational enhancements, significantly expanded WorkFaith’s outreach, and led WorkFaith through a technological evolution. Through strategic community partnerships, Matt and the team enabled WorkFaith to support 10,002 clients in 2024, collectively earning over $25,000,000 in wages.
His strategic vision and dedication to providing hope and opportunity have been instrumental in advancing WorkFaith’s impact. Prior to WorkFaith, Matt held operational and leadership roles in the Oil and Gas Industry, as well as positions in nonprofit management, leveraging his skills in organizational development and community engagement.
“I am truly honored to step into the role of CEO and lead WorkFaith into its next chapter,” said Matt. “Looking ahead, I am excited to build on our strong foundation, expand our reach, and continue equipping individuals with the tools and opportunities to thrive in meaningful careers. Together with our dedicated team, Board of Directors, and longstanding community partners, we will inspire hope and transform lives through the power of work and faith.”
A native of Houston, TX, Matt is a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, where he developed a strong discipline for honor, courage, and commitment. He attended Texas State University, expanding his knowledge in areas that complement his passion for leadership, service, and community impact. Matt is married and a devoted father to three boys, balancing his professional commitments with an active family life.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Anthony for his leadership over the last 5 years. I am thrilled to express our full support for Matt as WorkFaith’s new CEO,'' said Taylor Ducoff, Board Chairman. “Matt’s proven servant leadership, his heart for our mission, and vision for the future make him the ideal leader to guide WorkFaith forward. We are confident that under Matt's direction, the organization will continue to do God's restorative work in our community."
Anthony Flynn, former WorkFaith CEO and member of WorkFaith’s Advisory Board, stated “WorkFaith is in a healthy place and in strong and steady hands. Matt’s skills and capabilities are exactly what WorkFaith needs in its next season of leadership and I have every confidence in Matt’s leadership as CEO”.
WorkFaith (workfaith.org) is a Christ-centered nonprofit organization based in Houston, founded in 2006 to provide faith-based training and coaching for individuals seeking long-term employment. It targets those facing significant barriers, such as poverty, incarceration, addiction, or homelessness, equipping them with job skills, confidence, and spiritual support to build stable, productive, and spiritually rich lives. Its mission integrates practical workforce development with a deep commitment to Christian values, creating personal transformation through work and faith.
For more information, please contact: Anna Hasselbring at adiaz@workfaith.org
Q&A with CEO, Matt Killian
READ BELOW TO GET TO KNOW THE CEO OF WORKFAITH
You have been part of the organization for over 17 years. What drew you to WorkFaith?
Seventeen years ago, WorkFaith’s mission to combine faith with practical job training to lift people out of poverty captivated me. Empowering individuals to discover both employment and purpose aligned with my conviction that work can be a form of worship.
What has changed the most about WorkFaith through the years? What has remained the same?
We have evolved from a scrappy startup to a polished operation with expanded programs, enhanced tech, and a broader reach. Yet, our core remains unchanged: a Christ-centered commitment to giving people hope and the tools to thrive. No matter how many new bells and whistles we add, we’re still about transforming lives, one job at a time.
What is your big vision for the organization’s future?
I picture our nation transformed by a Christ-centered movement, with WorkFaith as the catalyst. By equipping more job seekers with skills and purpose, we can set off a chain reaction of hope, self-assurance, and real change that strengthens families, supports businesses, and transforms communities from the ground up.
How have the programs of WorkFaith helped the local community?
Our programs have been a lifeline that have equipped tens of thousands of Houstonians with job skills, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. Every person that goes back to work eases the strain on shelters, hospitals, and jails. Stable employment cuts down on emergency services, healthcare costs, and incarceration fees. It breaks the cycle of recidivism. When people can stand on their own two feet, Houston thrives. WorkFaith isn’t just a ministry; it’s an economic engine for our city.
How does WorkFaith collaborate with other nonprofits to bring hope and success to its clients?
We “bolt on” our Christ-centered job training and coaching to supercharge over 70 community organizations. Why reinvent the wheel when you can make it spin faster? We team up with organizations to deliver tailored resources that transform clients from “stuck” to “unstoppable”, all while keeping hope and faith front and center.
How is WorkFaith expanding its reach and impact?
We’re growing our impact by enhancing both our in-person and online training programs, bringing WorkFaith to new regions, and building stronger partnerships with local businesses, churches, foundations, and organizations. By customizing our programs to fit the needs of each community, we’re equipping people with the skills and hope they need for lasting success. It’s a calculated step forward designed to boost our mission and change more lives.
What is the most rewarding part of your work at WorkFaith?
Hands-down, it’s seeing someone walk through our doors defeated and leave with hope, a tangible path forward, and Christ in their heart. Knowing we’ve played a part in their story of redemption and purpose is truly the best part of this assignment.
What message would you like to send to the WorkFaith staff in your new role?
To our team, you’re the backbone of this mission, and I’m beyond thankful for each of you. It’s a privilege to lead us into this new season. Let’s keep our eyes on Christ, support one another, and stay relentless in our work. We’re not just transforming lives, we’re impacting eternities.
Has anything unique or exciting happened at WorkFaith this year?
Yes! I’m excited to share (again) that we were one of just two organizations, out of 160, chosen for the inaugural Hope Award given by KSBJ and Hope Media Group for our life-changing work in Houston. We received the award at the Annual Greater Houston Prayer Breakfast, recognizing our efforts to combine practical job training with Christ-centered encouragement to instill hope and secure gainful employment. We’re truly grateful for this honor and committed to making a difference in our community.
What do you say to someone considering volunteering at WorkFaith? What opportunities are there and how do we learn about them?
Volunteering with us is a chance to make a tangible difference through roles like mentoring, mock interviewing, or event support. Visit our website or contact our volunteer coordinator to explore opportunities and get involved.
What is your #1 bucket list vacation?
My dream vacation is a three-week trip to New Zealand with my wife and three boys, exploring all the country has to offer. It would be a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with a heavy emphasis on adventure.
What are some fun things you do outside of the workplace?
I’m into all kinds of fishing, from fly to in-shore, and I run marathons to stay fit and balance out the BBQ I love to cook and eat. My time is mostly spent with my family, raising three outstanding young men, often hitting the trails of the Rocky Mountains or the weekend sporting event. My life outside of work is straightforward, active, and centered on what matters.
