Q1 2024 Economic Alliance Newsletter

Advocating for Transportation Upgrades and Projects.

FEATURED

The Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, created in 1985, provides professional economic development services for the businesses and communities surrounding the 25-mile Houston Ship Channel. Since 2008, the Economic Alliance has supported 77 successful projects that have helped create 3,856 new jobs and over $17.8 billion of capital investment to the Houston Port Region.

We are proud to count among our members cities, communities, chambers of commerce and other government entities

Harris County Port Houston

City of Baytown

Buddy Tucker, Ohmstede Industrial Services Inc.

Connie Tilton, ExxonMobil

David Bush, Orion Group Holdings, Inc.

Elizabeth Fazio Hale, Gulf Coast Authority

Herb Hildebrand, San Jacinto College - Small

Business Development Center

Janet Gonzales, Frost Bank

Jim Griffin, San Jacinto College LyondellBasell Center for Petrochemical, Energy & Technology

Jonathan Schmaltz, McCarthy Building Companies

Katie Yount, McDonough Engineering

Kristi Claypool, Meador Staffing Services

Leonard A. Bedell, Mobil Steel International, Inc.

David Szafranski, Enterprise Holdings

Nathanael Ince, Pinnacle

Russell Carter, Bohler Engineering

Community

Community

2024 Board of Directors

Brent Cockerham, Moody Bank

Dave Tolson, Arete Advisors

Dennis Winkler, Winkler Public Relations

Dr. Lynda Villanueva, Lee College

John Grimes, LBC Tank Terminals

Marcelo Moacyr, BGE

Paul J. Plauché, MobilOps

Robert Bonner, Diamondback Works

Stephen Kelman, Wood

Dr. Allatia Harris, San Jacinto College

Melissa Wolkenhauer, BIC Alliance

Bryan Wooten, INVISTA

Rina Harris, CenterPoint Energy

Mike Chou, Truist Bank

Charles Montgomery, Houston ILA Dock & Marine

Shareen Larmond, West Gulf Maritime Association

Nellie Baktashi, Houston Methodist

Ali MacLeod, BGE

Marcia Faschingbauer, Excargo Services Inc.

Nikki Mason, Covestro

Scott McAlister, Coastal Ice & Water

Captain Clint Winegar, Houston Pilots

Mark Bookmyer, LyondellBasell

Brittany Wong, Shell Deer Park

Scott Tanley, Turner Industries

Rick Brown, Arkema

Peter Dumont, AG&P Americas

Aundrea Young, Competitive Choice

Kevin Griffin, Satterfield & Pontikes

Thomas Reeves, City of Baytown

Transportation/Infrastructure – Our ability to move product and people through this port and manufacturing region is vital to the success of our companies, economy and competitiveness. This part of the investment equation must be effective, or we begin to lose capital investment to other regions. We received huge wins from the SH 225 - 610 PEL Study. Upcoming projects will include:

SH 225 Redevelopment: Recommended Alternative

• Design: Elevated Lanes - 2 Additional Lanes, Both Directions

SH 225 & Beltway 8 Interchange – All 8 Direct Connectors

• Scope: Development of the detailed design, specifications, and costs for constructing 8 director connectors at SH 225 and Beltway 8 in support of the HCTRA’s Ship Channel Bridge Program.

• Estimated Letting: Summer 2024 - Estimated Construction Cost: $310 Million I-610E Ship Channel Bridge Redevelopment

• Scope: Development of the schematic design and environmental studies for the reconstruction and raising of the I-610E Ship Channel Bridge.

• Estimated Start of Schematic and Environmental Studies: Fall 2024 - Est. Construction Cost: $2 Billion SH 225 Overlay

• Scope: Re-paving of SH 225 from Beltway 8 to East Boulevard

• Estimated Letting: Summer 2025 - Estimated Construction Cost: $11 Million

Our Freight Transportation Committee, made up of Industry (EHCMA), Port Houston, and our mayors have led this effort since 2016, originally identifying over 30 freight related projects. Many of these projects coalesced into one large PEL (Planning, Environmental & Linkages) Study that included the entire SH 225 Corridor (from SH 146 to 610). This project will reshape the entire SH 225 Corridor and keep the Houston Port region competitive in its’ ability to move product and people efficiently.

Special thanks to our Committee Chairs Bob Bradshaw of INEOS and former Seabrook Mayor Glenn Royal, as well as my steadfast partner Bruce Mann of Port Houston.

God Bless,

Chad Burke President & CEO

Economic Alliance Houston Port Region

203 Ivy Avenue, Suite 200 Deer Park, TX 77536 (281)476-9176

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE EXECUTIVE BOARD

Chair: Robert Bacon, ExxonMobil

Treasurer: Dr. Brenda Hellyer, San Jacinto College

Secretary: Steve Cote, Brady, Chapman, Holland & Associates

Vice Chair: Ryan Sitton, Pinnacle

Vice Chair: Mayor Michel Bechtel, City of Morgan's Point

Vice Chair: Charles Neal, Kuraray America, Inc.

Vice Chair: Arienne Brint, LyondellBasell

COMMUNICATIONS ADVISORY BOARD

Sarah Arroyo, Lubrizol

Heather Betancourth, Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC

Jessica Blackmore, Shell Deer Park

Sara Cronin, TPC Group

Amanda Fenwick, San Jacinto College

Jason Lee, Exponent Prosperity Accelerator Advisors, LLC

Lori Pace, ADIM Media, LLC

Lauren Gonzales, LyondellBasell

Bill Stephens, Chevron

Aaron Stryk, ExxonMobil

Connie Tilton, ExxonMobil

Dennis Winkler, Winkler Public Relations

Tess Hammock, Community First ER

MaryJane Mudd, East Harris County Manufacturing Association

Sabrina Schwertner, Texas Chemical Council

Brian Waddle, Lee College

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE STAFF

Chad Burke, President & CEO

Chad Carson, VP of Economic Development

Marisela Ramirez, Events & Membership Director

Amanda Baucum, Marketing & Communications Director

Heather Carrico, Financial & Administrative Manager

Patti Bell, Workforce Development Manager

Karen Gregory, Contracts Manager

LAYOUT AND DESIGN

Amanda Baucum, Marketing & Communications Director

EDITORIAL & SPONSORSHIP SUBMISSIONS

amanda@allianceportregion.com

Newsletter archive: https://allianceportregion.com/newsletter/

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE CONVENES a Transportation Infrastructure Task Force to review mobility issues around freight growth, road safety, environmental impacts and the nearly $50B in production facility investments in the Houston Port region.

Collection of local/state elected officials, Port Houston, petrochemical association partners and private sector members.

Deliver TxDOT a prioritized project list based on Houston Port region consensus and critical investment needs to aging infrastructure.

ADVOCATE WITH TXDOT TO STUDY TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS

CONNECTING TRANSPORTATION ISSUES

1 2 MOVEMENT OF MARITIME FREIGHT/CARGO 3 4 5 ENHANCED EVACUATION ROUTES

REGIONAL GROWTH AND INVESTMENTS

SAFETY AND MOVEMENT OF RESIDENTS/WORKERS

UPGRADES TO AGING INFRASTRUCTURE

FREIGHT MOVEMENT IN THE REGION CONTINUES TO GROW AS PETROCHEMICAL INDUSTRY PRODUCTION EXPANDS AND IMPORTS RISE YEAR OVER YEAR.

100%

INCREASE IN TEU’S THROUGH PORT HOUSTON - GROWING FROM 2M TO 4M TEU’S (‘16 - ‘22)

“TxDOT is excited to get to the completion of our SH225 Preliminary Engineering study soon. I want to thank Economic Alliance and all the stakeholders along SH225 and the surrounding region in assisting us by providing valuable input to the study. With the input from all stakeholders, TxDOT will be able to design SH225 reconstruction in a way that will handle the freight traffic in the area and build a roadway that will benefit all traveling public in the region.” Eliza Paul, Houston District Engineer, TxDOT

7 years of member/stakeholder work is represented in the announcement of TxDOT’s SH225 Redevelopment Plan.

Delivered a project list based on Houston Port region consensus and identification of critical investments to upgrade our aging infrastructure.

IDENTIFY PROJECTS AND BUILD CONSENSUS

Study/design for the reconstruction and raising of the I-610E Ship Channel Bridge

Start of Schematic: Fall ‘24

Construction Cost: $2B

ELEVATED LANES IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

Elevated lanes in the center of the roadway or between the frontage roads and general-purpose lanes.

Reconstruction of 225 to meet current design standards.

Approval for constructing 8 direct connectors at SH225 and Beltway8 Ship Channel Bridge

Letting: Summer ‘24

Construction Cost: $310M

Re-paving of SH225 from Beltway8 to East Boulevard

Letting: Summer ‘25

Construction Cost: $11M

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE’S LARGEST EVENT of the year brings together industry, government, and community stakeholders to share knowledge relevant to the Houston Port region. This year we are celebrating 15 years of bringing the Gulf Coast Industry Forum to the region.

Event bringing insights and forecasting by leaders of the petrochemical, manufacturing, maritime, and logistics industries along the gulf coast.

PRESENTING SPONSOR TICKETS, SPONSORSHIPS, & BOOTHS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5TH 2024

PASADENA CONVENTION CENTER

bit.ly/GCIF9-5-24

ATTENDANCE ‘23 & GROWING EACH YEAR

800+ 21 45

ATTENDEES

SPEAKERS/PANELLISTS EXHIBITORS

MISSION

GROW AND MARKET A VIBRANT REGIONAL ECONOMY

ONE OF THE LARGEST GROWTH ENGINES OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY IN THE WORLD!

SOME OF THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF LIVING IN TEXAS based on the economic impact of the Houston Port Region.

1.5M TEXAS JOBS / 3.4M U.S. JOBS

(Economic Impact of Houston Ship Channel Activity, ‘22 – By Martin Associates)

MEMBERS IN MOTION

INVISTA

INVISTA employees have been busy supporting our community. During the holidays, INVISTA employees adopted the wish lists of 19 children through partnership with the YMCA to bring smiles to their faces during the holiday season. Recently, we also collaborated with the Children’s Museum Houston to host a Family Open House event at Park Place Elementary. During this event, students and their families participated in interactive learning experiences led by employees and museum staff. INVISTA also supported Chavez-Huerta Day Parade and Festival at Chavez High School which showcased the talents and achievements of students as well as brought the community together. Also in March, INVISTA employees participated in the Houston East End Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament. Funds raised during this event help East End students reach their potential through scholarships to advance their education.

APACHE EARNS NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR SAFETY, INNOVATION, & TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

Apache Industrial was recognized for world-class industrial technical expertise, innovation and safety during Associated Builders and Contractors’ Excellence in Construction awards. Apache’s work on a LyondellBasell PO/TBA project earned Apache, an industrial services company, ABC’s prestigious Eagle Award for an industrial specialty project over $10 million.

Apache’s team worked more than 2.5 million safe work hours erecting and demobilizing some 10,000 tons of scaffolding, and provided painting, insulation and fireproofing services. LyondellBasell’s PO/TBA project is LyondellBasell’s largest capital investment and the world’s largest PO/TBA facility.

“Our employees’ commitment to safety and dedication to exceptional craft skills earned this recognition and allows Apache to deliver operational excellence and innovative solutions to customers,” said Stephen Hillier, Apache CEO.

ABC represents more than 23,000 industrial contractor members nationwide.

SAFETY, INNOVATION, & OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE CULTURE OF APACHE INDUSTRIAL

Apache Industrial’s core principles of safety, innovation and customer value deliver operational excellence to customers, enhancing Apache’s reputation as a leading industrial services partner.

Commitment to fundamental values drives the impressive growth and expansion Apache is experiencing. Apache collaborates with technical organizations, such as NCCER and NACE, to bolster training at Apache’s 345,000 square-foot training facility. In addition to teaching craft skills, Apache develops the whole person, on and off the job site.

“We hire, prepare and care for our highly skilled craftworkers,” said Stephen Hillier, Apache Industrial CEO. “We encourage employees to ‘make safety personal’ and always execute and deliver safely.

“This purposeful culture of safety and commitment to excellence allows Apache to pursue operational excellence and provide safe, innovative solutions for customers,” Hillier added.

To learn more about Apache, visit apacheip.com

COASTAL ICE SET TO ROLL OUT PLASTIC RECYCLE/REUSE PROGRAM

Coastal Ice & Water signs initial agreement with local chemical manufacturer to collect and recycle plastic bottles. Details of the “industry-driven solution” will be announced soon.

Coastal Ice is the premiere hydration solution partner for the region’s refineries, chemical manufacturers and associated contractors, selling ice and water and designing hydration safety programs to keep employees safe.

Aligning with industry’s circular economy goals – eliminating plastic waste, Coastal Ice collects and recycles plastic bottles delivered to manufacturing sites. This includes tracking plastics recycled and reused as feedstock through advanced manufacturing.

Scott McAlister, Coastal Ice president, acknowledges satisfaction of being at the forefront of the solution. “While our customers are working on bipartisan ‘plastics’ solutions in D.C., we’re expanding recycling and reducing plastic waste right here.”

Coastal Ice dedicates funds from recycling to industrysponsored community programs.

MEMBERS IN MOTION

BACK-TO-BACK AWARD RECOGNITION

Coastal Ice & Water earned community outreach awards on backto-back nights to kick-off February, earning LaPorte-Bayshore Chamber’s 2023 Business of Year February 1st and Economic Alliance’s Volunteer of Year February 2nd.

LaPorte-Bayshore recognized Coastal Ice for active support of the chamber, helping guests stay safely hydrated during outdoor festivals.

“Coastal Ice came to our rescue several times,” mentioned chamber president Jeff Martin.

Monica Beynaerts earned the volunteer award for Coastal Ice’s overall efforts supporting Economic Alliance, especially chairing the Women’s Leadership Committee. Monica was thrilled to receive the award from Gallery Furniture’s Mattress Mack. Coastal Ice frequently partners with Mack.

“We accept these awards on behalf of all volunteers. We are honored to serve alongside giving and caring people in our community,” said Scott McAlister, president of Coastal Ice.

MOBIL STEEL MARKS 55-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Mobil Steel celebrates 55 years as the safe, reliable, quality solution for customers needing steel fabrication in refining, petrochemical and sustainable fuels industries.

Mobil Steel earned its sixth consecutive Diamond Level STEP safety recognition, top-level safety performance within Associated Builders and Contractors, and ninth overall prestigious safety award from ABC.

“We’re proud of our 55 years of quality and safety leadership in the contractor industry fabricating steel for the nation’s essential industries,” said Leonard A. Bedell, President & CEO. “Our skilled employees, AISC quality certification and spacious steel fabrication facilities ensure we’ll meet your project objectives on-time, safely, and reliably - every time.”

Mobil Steel employees, who’ve worked over 60 months without a job-related OSHA reportable injury, maintain a safe, healthy work environment while fabricating steel for industry leaders.

MEMBERS IN MOTION

METRO VANPOOL DELIVERS

H+M Industrial EPC has integrated METRO Vanpool to efficient employee transport on and off project sites. This sustainable and flexible solution reduces vehicle emissions and cuts down on job site parking demands. A single vanpool can replace up to 15 vehicles. The first van was delivered to a dedicated work crew in March 2024, followed by a second in April. What a great connection and solution!

H+M INDUSTRIAL EPC

H+M Industrial EPC received the 2024 Top Workplaces USA award, a prestigious recognition featured in USA TODAY. Erin Eason, HR Director, and Brandon Hogan, President and CEO, attribute this success to the team’s strength and commitment to core values like safety and continuous improvement. The award, based on an employee engagement survey by Energage, honors exceptional workplace environments, with H+M standing out among over 42,000 participating organizations for its people-first culture. https://www.hm-ec.com/blog-posts/h-m-industrial-epc-secures-place-among-the-nations-top-workplaces-in-2024

SAN JACINTO COLLEGE

New Competency Based Education Program to Launch this Fall. Students can use their work experience to get ahead in their education with a new competency based education program launching this fall at San Jacinto College. The construction management competency based education program will allow students to test out of areas of expertise so they can progress at their own pace to complete the program. Competency based education allows individuals to dive into specialized programs tailored for industry needs, benefit from flexible scheduling options, and gain valuable skills to help with career advancement. Learn more at sanjac.edu.

SUDDUTH SEARCH

Sudduth Search marked its fifth year in business by giving back and celebrating with those who have contributed to its success.

In the fall, their team of veteran recruiters participated in an annual Day of Service, working alongside Heights Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry (HIM). HIM is a 100% volunteer-run organization dedicated to reducing food insecurity across the metropolitan area. Together they were able to make a meaningful impact in the lives of 82 local families, distributing food and pantry staples.

Then last month--surrounded by clients, candidates, referral and networking partnersthe team gathered at Ouisie’s Table in River Oaks to toast their milestone.

Sudduth Search focuses on hiring Transformational Talent; leaders who can drive or support growth and change for your business. The firm is industry agnostic, making it a good partner for placements across a wide variety of fields.

(L to R) Terri Doughtry, Executive Dir. of Heights Interfaith Ministries; followed by Jen + Britt Sudduth, Alana Murphy, Danielle Smith, Peter Resha, Hazel Kassu and Leah Salinas, all of Sudduth Search

The Sudduth Search team at its 5-year anniversary party

MEMBERS IN MOTION

BE&K BUILDING GROUP

BE&K Building Group was the design-builder for VGXI’s new 120,000-square-foot headquarters and biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Conroe, TX. VGXI, a Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), sought to expand its capacity and prioritize employee wellness while supporting groundbreaking science. The facility, located in Deison Technology Park, boasts cGMP-compliant areas, including laboratories and cleanrooms, and supporting office areas and amenities. It features four manufacturing trains with cutting-edge equipment, fermentation capacity exceeding 3000L, and flexible fill-finish capabilities. Dedicated spaces accommodate mRNA manufacturing and personalized therapy services. The modular design allows for future expansion. With over 20 years of experience, VGXI offers patented, reliable processes for complex projects. ENR Texas & Louisiana recognized the project as Best in Manufacturing for 2023, praising its safety, innovation, and community impact.

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR CUSTOMERS

Synchrony Group is a Houston based firm that provides technical marketing services for industrial firms.

Our global client list ranges from startups to public companies. We have worked with midstream companies like Smartpipe on their technical documentation, conducted strategic planning for international firms like Corroserv and finding new markets for public companies like nVent.

Our recent project has taken us into the world of industrial process control and we are currently in the midst of commercializing new technology for our client.

Boasting a bench strength of technical SMEs, we are truly marketers for engineers by engineers.

Synchrony Group is a minority owned business, leveraging decades of experience in oil and gas, petrochemicals and other industrial verticals.

TEXAS MUTUAL’S COMMITMENT TO PROTECTING BUSINESS FROM FRAUD

With the largest fraud team in the state, Texas Mutual helps protect the workers’ compensation system which benefits all specialists identified $9.7 million in fraud and abuse and our work helped prevent over $10.9 million in fraud and abuse.

See how business is better with Texas Mutual and learn more about our fraud team that works to prevent and uncover premium fraud, health care fraud and claimant fraud.

https://www.texasmutual.com/employers/pr/business-is-better-fraud

INEOS - WOMEN MAKE AWARDS RECOGNIZE EXCELLENCE IN MANUFACTURING

The Manufacturing Institute (MI)—the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers—announced that INEOS’ Senior Chemist Ashleigh McWilliams has been recognized as a 2024 Women MAKE Awards Top 30 under 30 Emerging Leader in North America. This annual national awards program honors women who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their careers and represent all levels of the manufacturing industry, from the factory floor to the C-suite. The Women MAKE Awards gala honors 100 industry leaders (“Honorees”) and 30 rising stars (“Emerging Leaders”) who have been nominated by their companies as the “go-to” women, recognized for their innovation, dedication, contributions, and good counsel.

The Women MAKE Awards are part of the MI’s Women MAKE America initiative, which is the nation’s marquee program to close the gender gap in manufacturing. Women account for about half of the U.S. labor force but represent less than one-third of the manufacturing workforce. Women MAKE America aims to build the 21st-century manufacturing workforce by empowering and inspiring women in the industry.

PORT HOUSTON SURPASSES 1M TEU MARK IN FIRST QUARTER

Container volumes at Port Houston have skyrocketed in the first quarter of 2024. From January to March, Port Houston handled 1,069,917 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) yearto-date, an increase of 15% compared to the same period last year. In March alone, container volumes at Port Houston totaled 360,991 TEUs, an increase of 20% compared to March 2023. In fact, it was Port Houston’s biggest March ever.

Consumer spending on items like furniture and appliances contributed to loaded import volumes that were up 23% this March compared to the same month last year and 14% yearto-date. Loaded export volumes, which are primarily resins, have also increased by 12% in March and 15% for the year, totaling 404,124 TEUs year-to-date.

CITY OF LA PORTE

The City of La Porte has partnered with local artist and La Porte High School alumna, Whitney Hayden, to create a unique mini-mural trail that ties the bayfront location of the city into the Historic Main Street district. To bring the bay vibes and the seagulls on the City seal to Main Street, a plan was hatched to incorporate the birds in a creative mural trail, themed for each installation. Participants can download a dedicated map online or pick one up at the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce to plot their course and document their discoveries on social media using the hashtag #LPgulls. Prizes await those who complete the entire trail, adding extra excitement to the adventure!

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE IN MOTION

GROWTHZONE SOFTWARE

Our organization has successfully implemented GrowthZone, and we encourage members to utilize the Info Hub through the MemberPlus mobile app. This hub offers various functionalities to enhance member experiences:

• Directory Listing: Access contact information for both yourself and fellow members exclusively through the “members only” hub.

• Personalized Member Listing Page: Customize your own page on the Hub with a description, location, logo, photos, and contact details tailored to your membership level.

• Membership and Payment Management: Seamlessly manage your membership and payments through the Hub.

• Resources: Gain access to essential sites, documents, and other information. Explore the resource area for further insights.

• Manage Committees and Subscriptions: Join a committee or subscribe to our newsletter!

We’re excited about this transition and look forward to providing our members with a more efficient and integrated solution to meet their needs. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to optimize the platform.

If you have any questions, email Marisela Ramirez at marisela@allianceportregion.com

For a confidential search, please call Thomas Brinsko or Toni Rosario at 281-538-9996.

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE ATTENDED

On February 7th Economic Alliance attended the ground breaking of the new Pasadena Arena and Convention Center. The project is funded by the Pasadena Economic Development Corporation.

CHAD BURKE SPOKE

Chad Burke, President & CEO, Economic Alliance spoke at the Transportation Club of Houston on January 9th. He highlighted advancements in freight related infrastructure in the Houston Port Region

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE BOOK CLUB

We wrapped this book up with a call to Bob Goff and he actually answered the phone. Told us it’s OUR time to write a book!

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE CELEBRATES

Economic Alliance was proud to celebrate the opening of the Hwy 146 expansion through Seabrook and Kemah with TXDOT District Engineer Eliza Paul, Congressman Brian Babin and former and current Seabrook Mayors Glenn Royal and Thom Kolupski with Pearland Mayor/TPC Director Kevin Cole.

TRIP TO AUSTIN TEXAS

Economic Alliance Houston Port Region President, Chad Burke, joined other members of the Bay Area Leadership Council who traveled to Austin. During a series of productive meetings, the delegation met with TX House Appropriations Chair, Dr. Greg Bonnen’s Chief of Staff, Senator Robert Nichols - Transportation Chairman’s staff, the Director of the Governor’s Office of Appointments, the Executive Director the Office of Economic Development and Tourism, had lunch with the Executive Director of Gulf Coast Protection, and met with key staffers for Governor Abbot. Thanks to all who hosted our group at the Texas Capitol.

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE IN MOTION

DELEGATION TRIP TO TURKEY

Straife Risk Management, through the American Chamber of Commerce, organized a delegation trip to Istanbul, Turkey, bringing together representatives from Turkish Airlines, the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, Sysco Foods, and other delegates to discuss trade opportunities including their energy transition plans. These discussions aimed to foster collaboration and exchange insights on sustainable energy practices and growth opportunities within the Turkish market.

ECONOMIC ALLIANCE ANNUAL BANQUET

Economic Alliance Hosted their first event of the Year on Thursday, February 1. The Annual Banquet gathered over 475 ppl to hear Houston’s Legend Jim McIngvale, better known as “Mattress Mack”. It was an exceptional night spent with friends, colleagues, great food, and drinks as we celebrated our members and an outstanding 2023. We honored our outgoing Chairman Bob Bradshaw and Executive Board Member Monty Heins. Also, at this event we swore in our 2024 board members and honored our Volunteer of the Year, Monica Beynaerts. The Annual Banquet is always fun and memorable time as we reflect on the success of our mission to Grow & Market a Vibrant Regional Economy!

GLOBAL LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

VITAL FOR BUSINESS VITAL FOR BUSINESS

Expand your career in global trade with our program, gaining essential skills for transportation, international logistics, and supply chain management. Plus, take advantage of valuable field experience through a logistics internship with a company in the Greater Houston area.

BUSINESS GROWTH TASK FORCE

The Business Growth Task meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 9am in the Board Room at the Economic Alliance with a virtual option. At every meeting we give have Member Highlights where a member has the opportunity to share about their business and how to connect. Committee Members also get the opportunity to share business updates and news in the region. This committee helps plan four events a year. Our first event was the Economic Forecast Reception that took place the San Jacinto College – Lyondellbasell Center for Petrochemical, Energy & Technology. We have over 170 attendees and 7 exhibitors. We had the pleasure of having insight from two experts: Senior Vice President of Research & Chief Economist, Patrick Jankowski of Greater Houston Partnership and Executive Vice President, Michael Bergen of Industrial Info Resources. The next event is the Industrial Procurement Forum focused on contractors, register to attend this event on Thursday, May 23rd. Sponsorship, Exhibitor opportunities and registration is now available. For more information or to be signed up to attend meetings please reach out to Marisela Ramirez at marisela@allianceportregion.com to be included on monthly notices.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE

In February, the ED Taskforce hosted several City Administrators from Deer Park , La Porte and the Pasadena EDC to highlight projects they have in their respective cities and growth they are managing. We also had the Greater Houston Partnership present. They gave a high-level overview of the recent projects they have won within GHP.

We are still busy securing meetings so we may move our April meeting to May, and continue from there our schedule in July, October and then the plan for the end of year social in November.

Economic Alliance along with the Greater Houston Partnership hosted 6 National Site Selectors this past April 2nd at San Jac Maritime campus to showcase our regions business climate/investment activity, potential incentive offerings, educational institutions, and Port Houston.

Comm Garcia opened the meeting welcoming them to Precinct 2 and the Houston Port regionBragging about his track record to be an advocate for investment and highlighting not only the 2 recent abatements but also the work his office has done with INEOS (traffic Lanes) and Kao (permitting efficiency) to make Harris County an environment for companies to establish operations and remain productive.

Chancellor Hellyer highlighted San Jac’s programs/ facilities/investments/partnerships - CPET/Industry, Maritime Campus/PILOTS, Center for Biotechnology/NBIRT and EDGE Center/Houston Spaceport. Developing workforce pipelines for companies in the Houston Port Region/Training of Students and Incumbent Workers and how companies tap into the resources at San Jac

Highlights of the Skills Development Fund being applied to programs/companies. How the college works the process and the advantages/impacts the SDF has made to companies.

• Rina Lawrence provided an overview of Port Houston activity and investment upgrades.

• EA Chairman Rob Bacon attended an evening dinner cruise with the consultants and other ED allies in region.

TASK FORCE, COMMITTEE & EVENTS

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE

Our February 15 meeting of the Workforce Task Force was welcomed by Dr. Allatia Harris, Chairman and Vice Chancellor of San Jacinto College and Patti Bell, Workforce Development Manager at Economic Alliance Houston Port Region.

The meeting topic was “Remote Workforce”. We had wonderful speakers from San Jacinto College and Stolt Tankers. Michelle Walker, San Jacinto College Employee Relations and Benefits Director and Jesse Bernal, Dean, Student Advising at San Jacinto College who supervises employees who work remotely shared the pros and cons for employees and employer. In addition, Lacey McCain, Management Assistant at Stolt Tankers, who has been a previously completely remote worker and now a hybrid worker, spoke on the challenges and organization required.

Future topics include Artificial Intelligence, Maritime, and ending the year with an Economic Outlook.

This task force usually meets on the third Thursday every other month, from 3:00pm – 4:00pm, unless on site options require a different time. Our next meeting is May 2 via Zoom.

DREAM IT. DO IT.

The goal of the Dream It Do It Southeast Texas (DIDI) program is to highlight career opportunities in our region by working with our industry partners who volunteer. We focus on the petrochemical, logistics, transportation, maritime and construction industries.

We started 2024 with 11 presentations to 950+ students, teachers, counselors, administrators, and community members. Dream It Do It has presented at two community events, six career fairs, two classrooms, and one large group to 8 school districts and two community colleges.

We can’t do this without our volunteers. Thank you to our volunteers who bring such valuable insight into the high-demand, high-wage careers in our area - Stacy Putman and Kellie Sustaita with Ineos and Dr. Brenda Hellyer with San Jacinto College.

If you’d also like to share your knowledge with the future workforce, we are always looking for volunteers to come speak about their careers in the petrochemical, logistics, maritime, construction, and transportation industries. If you would like to help, please email Patti at patti@allianceportregion.com

WOMEN IN ALLIANCE COMMITTEE

The Women in Alliance Committee is made up of members working together to organize 3 Women’s Leadership Luncheons a year. We kicked off the year with our first luncheon on Wednesday, April 17th at the San Jacinto College – Lyondellbasell Petrochemical, Energy & Technology. Our speakers Vice President of the Houston Texans Foundation, Hannah McNair and CEO of the Harris County Houston Sports

Authority, Janis Burke presented with a Fireside Chat that inspired and empowered our guest. Our highlighted charity was the Cure Sanfilippo Foundation, we were truly moved by their stories and motived to give back. As we have made a custom a team from Kendra Scott was present with a Pop-Up Shop with the goal to give back 20% of its profits to the non-profit. We are excited to announce that over $1,800 was given back to the Sanfilippo Foundation. Thank you to all who played a part in that give back!

We hope to see you at the next Luncheon. Please be sure to add the remaining dates to your calendar:

• July 31st

• October 23rd

This committee meets every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 3pm. If you would like more information on how to get involved or sponsor an event, please feel free to contact Marisela Ramirez at marisela@allianceportregion.com.

BIOMANUFACTURING

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San Jacinto College trains your new hires quickly, safely, and for a lower overall cost to your company. Upon completion, trainees are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need for seamless entry into your organization.

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THE COAST WITH THE MOST GROWTH

A knowledge sharing platform where industry leaders with backgrounds in Petrochemical, Transportation/Infrastructure, Workforce Development, Capital Investment, Logistics, Governmental, and a wide range of others are interviewed.

Over the last six months we’ve hosted 18 guests, close to 7 hours of footage, 7,474 views, watch time 452 hours, and gained 52 subscribers. The show is growing. Don’t miss an episode, subscribe & watch today, or listen where you get your podcasts.

UPCOMING EVENTS 2024

MAY

Business Growth Task Force

Wednesday, May 1

9:00am – 10:00am

Women In Alliance Committee

Wednesday, May 8

3:00pm - 4:00pm

Gulf Coast Industry Forum Committee

Tuesday, May 21

3:00pm - 4:00pm

Economic Development

Wednesday, May 22

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Industrial Procurement Forum - Contractors

Thursday, May 23

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Public Policy

Tuesday, May 28

3:00pm - 5:00pm

JUNE

Business Growth Task Force

Wednesday, June 5

9:00am – 10:00am

Women In Alliance Committee

Wednesday, June 12

3:00pm - 4:00pm

Gulf Coast Industry Forum Committee

Tuesday, June 18

3:00pm - 4:00pm

Economic Board Meeting

Wednesday, June 19

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Workforce Development

Thursday, June 20

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Public Policy

Tuesday, June 25

3:00pm - 5:00pm

New Member Orientation Thursday, June 27

3:00pm – 5:00pm

JULY

Business Growth Task Force

Wednesday, July 10 9:00am – 10:00am

Women In Alliance Committee Wednesday, July 10 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Business Growth Event Thursday, July 11 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Gulf Coast Industry Forum Committee

Tuesday, July 16 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Public Policy

Tuesday, July 23

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Economic Development Wednesday, July 24

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Women’s Leadership Luncheon Wednesday, July31 11:00am - 1:00pm

Thursday, September 5, 2024

2024 Women’s Leadership Luncheons Wednesday - July 31 & October 23

PARTNER LEVEL

PARTNER MEMBERS

Stakeholder, Corporate, and Proprietorship Members

*STAKEHOLDER MEMBERS IN BOLD

3rd Rock Renewables

3V Industrial, LLC

ADS Custom Signs

AG&P Americas Inc.

All About Business

Amerant Bank

Angler Construction

Apache Industrial

Apache Oil Company

ARCO Design/Build

Arete Advisors

Arkema Inc.

Armand Bayou Nature Center

Association of Bayport Companies

BakerRipley

Bank of Texas

Bay Area Council on Drugs & Alcohol (BACODA)

Bay Area Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau

Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership

Bayport Polymers, LLC (Baystar)

BE&K Building Group

BGE

Blast Resource Group, LLC

BMF Industries

Brady, Chapman, Holland and Assoc.

Butler-Cohen

Capital One Bank

Cenikor Foundation

CG Infinity

Champions Insurance

CHI St. Luke’s Health Patients Medical Center

Cima Services, LP

Clark Freight Lines Inc

Colson X-Cel USA

Community First ER

Core Trucking of Texas

Craig & Heidt, Inc

Del Mar Safety Solutions

Diamond Rigging and Crane Inc

Dunavant Trans Gulf Transportation & Distribution

Group

E.E. Reed Construction, L.P.

Earmark Management and Consulting LLC

East Harris County Empowerment Council

Economic Incentive Services, LLC

Edna Rice Executive Recruiters Inc.

Enterprise Holdings, Inc.

Ethox Chemicals, LLC

Excargo Services

Fifth Ring

Fire Security, INC

First Horizon Bank

Frost Bank

Gallant Builders

Galveston Bay Foundation

Get Choice

Greater Houston Partnership

Gulf Coast Authority

Gulf Coast Solutions Inc

H+M Industrial EPC

Halff Associates, Inc.

Ham, Langston & Brezina, LLP

Hanson Professional Services

Hargrove Engineers + Constructors

HCA Houston Healthcare Southeast

HDR Engineering, Inc.

Houlden Enterprises, LLC

Houston Chronicle Media Group

Houston Construction Services

Houston ILA Dock & Marine

Houston Pilots Association

Houston Tents and Events, LLC

Houston Wilderness

Houston Yacht Club

Hunter Buildings

Hyatt Regency Baytown-Houston

Industrial Tax Consulting

Innovative Alternatives, Inc.

Innovative Office Environments

InnovEarth Corp.

Invista

iOne Benefits Group Inc

JBJ Management

JEM Advisors

Kaneka North America LLC

KCI Publishing Corporation

Knudson LP

LaneMKTG

Les Ellard Insurance Agency, Inc.

Linbeck Group

Live Oak Bank

Lubrizol

Magnolia Park Arts & Community

MAT Health & Financial Solutions

McDonough Engineering Corporation

Meador Staffing Services

Metro Star Vanpool

Mitsubishi Chemical America, Inc.

Mogul Media Works

Moody National Bank

Mosher Seifert & Company, CPA

National Property Holdings

New Industries, LLC

Newmans Valve LLC

NiSoft

Nissan Chemical Houston Corp

No More Carbon USA

Novotny Wealth Management

Ohmstede Industrial Services Inc.

Orbital Engineering, Inc.

Orion Group Holdings, Inc.

Outsourced Risk Managers LLC

Paycor

PDG Architects

Pfeiffer and Son, Ltd.

Phelps State Farm Insurance

Pinnacle

Pivotal

Place Chaplains

PlainsCapital Bank

Plantgistix

Premier Steam Cleaning Services

Pro Citrus Network

Project Joy and Hope

Project One Logistics

Qualified Properties, Inc.

Ram Alloys, LLC

Ritter Forest Products

Robert Half Inc.

Royal Harbor Partners, LLC

SageTech Resources

Sam Houston Area Council, BSA

San Jacinto River and Rail

Satterfield & Pontikes Construction, Inc.

Schooley Mitchell of Humble

Sesco Cement

Sky High for Kids

SMART Group Houston

Southern Sound Systems

Space City Services

SRI Global Inc

Statesman Corporation Finance, LLC

Stellar Bank

Stockstill & Associates

Sudduth Search

Sunstate Equipment LLC

Swagelok Southeast Texas

Tandem LAMarr Trucking & Excavating, Inc

Terracon Consultants, Inc.

Texas Deepwater Partners (TDWP Partners LLC)

Texas First Bank

Texas JDC Diving Inc

Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC)

Texas Mutual Insurance Co

Texas Southern University

The Boeing Company

The Bridge Over Troubled Waters, Inc.

The Gates at Main Steet/Linensndecor

The McDonnel Group

Tier 1 Integrity

Tolunay-Wong Engineers, Inc.

TPC Group

Trinity Professionals Recruitment

Troop Industrial

Truist Financial

Trustmark National Bank

UBS Financial Services Inc.

UES

Union Pacific Railroad

University of Houston-Clear Lake

Uprite Services

Veritex Bank

Vistage Worldwide

VLS Environmental Solutions

Voovio Technologies US Inc

Wheelchairs for Warriors

Wildcat Solutions

Wood

Wycoff Development & Construction, LLC

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allianceportregion.com

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