Chief executive officers helm their companies to success, and may work by themselves, or more often, with administrative staff such as managers and assistants. In Texas, most such companies are in the service sector. For the goods-producing sector, natural resources and mining, especially in oil and gas, lead the way. Tough CEOs typically have advanced degrees such as MBAs, most reach their positions only after many years of managerial experience in their chosen industries. The 15,000 who work in the state earn mean salaries of $84.08 per hour or $174,880 per year.