Firmino Mariano has been named the new Director of the Texas Education Exchange, bringing a strong record of leadership in finance, innovation, and strategic operations.
Firmino most recently served as Comptroller for Region 4 Education Service Center, where he led the Business Services department and advanced financial and technological systems that support districts and charter schools across the Houston-Galveston region. Prior to that, he served as Executive Director of Accounting and Finance at Aldine ISD, overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets, guiding the passage of a $1.8 billion bond program, and implementing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to modernize district operations.
With a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Houston and a strong background in data-driven financial management, Firmino has built his career around the intersection of finance and technology. He has led large-scale ERP implementations, developed AI-powered tools to support school business operations, and designed innovative budgeting solutions to help education agencies operate more efficiently. His work on the Texas Education AI MVP—an initiative that leveraged automation to improve school finance processes—demonstrates his ability to merge fiscal strategy with forward-thinking innovation.
In addition to his technical and financial expertise, Firmino is deeply committed to collaboration, problem-solving, and professional growth. He’s known for championing cross-functional teamwork and designing tools that make complex systems more accessible to leaders at every level.
As Director, Firmino will lead the continued growth and implementation of The Exchange, ensuring technical excellence, operational sustainability, and stronger support for school systems across the state. His unique blend of financial insight, technological expertise, and people-centered leadership makes him well-positioned to guide The Exchange into its next chapter.
Please join us in welcoming Firmino to this important role as he helps make education data more accessible, connected, and useful for the people who rely on it every day.
