Outsider living within: What industries are Houston most known for?

Hi all hope all is well,

I am a New York City transplant and plan on spending the rest of my days residing in this great city. I was initially attracted to this place by visiting a Buccee's (destroys any bodega or convenience store ever) and explored the possibilities of the change due to personal reasons. With that said, NYC is predominantly known for its finance industry–and not to forget all the other retailers, fashion, newly established tech firms and startups.

My goal during my forever stay here is to get acclimated to this city as my wife and I do plan on having children and raising them here. (She originally from Stafford/Sugarland area) With that said, I currently do work remotely for a financial firm in NYC (who has a houston downtown office) and noticed that a number of the same firms are also located here in Downtown Houston. Truth is–i do not see myself working in this industry forever which is why I am reaching out. Guess you can say i am looking for a pivot to get more familiar with a city that i will soon be starting a family in.

I've looked through the forum and noticed some outdated posts and wanted to know who is currently employed within the city limits what you do and why the industry you work in is so important to the city. Trying to gauge is my decision to pivot is good since i'll basically be starting over for the sake of a future generation. I have also looked at government jobs within the city of houston but from what I've read is these outdated posts being hired looks to be contingent on a need to know someone inside basis. The sentiment seems to be reflected with some of the other industries as well from defense to space.

I guess I'm looking for a realistics perspective from those who live here. I do not know anyone and would appreciate if current residents could chime in their experiences.

With that said, thanks for reading and look forward to what you have to say