Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
McAllen, Texas – A unique event designed to support growth and teamwork in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry is coming to the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). Developers, business leaders, and industry professionals will meet for an educational and networking luncheon to create new opportunities and advanceregional development.
The event, “Building the Valley: Uniting for RGV Regional Growth,” is organized by the Institute for Leadership in Capital Projects (I-LinCP), the RGV Partnership, and the South Texas Facility Partnership (STFP), in partnership with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and D. Wilson Construction. It will take place on Thursday, February 13, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM at the Embassy Suites by Hilton McAllen Convention Center. The goal is to highlight the importance of working together, forming strong partnerships, and using best practices to help the region grow.
A Chance to Connect and Learn
This event will bring together architects, engineers, developers, contractors, real estate professionals, and economic leaders to discuss key issues affecting the RGV. Attendees will learn about major infrastructure projects, business opportunities, and best practices in construction and development.
Organizations such as TxDOT, RGV Partnership, COSTEP, RioPlex, UTRGV, and local Economic development corporations (EDCs) will share insights on how they are helping the region move forward. The event will focus on how teamwork and collaboration can open doors for business, drive economic growth, and improve local communities.
Keynote Speakers and Expert Panels
The event will start with opening remarks from Carol Warkoczewski, Founder and CEO of I-LinCP, Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez, and Texas Transportation Commissioner Alex Meade. They will discuss leadership, investment in infrastructure, and the future of development in the RGV.
Three expert panels will follow:
- “Partnerships Driving Regional Growth” – Moderated by Brian Godinez, Principal at STFP, this discussion will include Daniel Silva, CEO of RGV Partnership; Adam Gonzalez, CEO of COSTEP; and Mario Reyna, Coordinator for the Hidalgo County Prosperity Task Force and RioPlex. The panel will explain how teamwork between businesses and government can help the economy grow.
- “UTRGV’s Role in Shaping the Future” – This session will explore how the university supports regional growth by developing new projects and training a skilled workforce. Speakers include Laura Lara, Associate Vice President for Planning and Construction at UTRGV, and James Rodriguez, Director of Facilities Planning & Management-SOM at UTRGV.
- “Design & Build Industry in the RGV and Its $20 Billion Economic Impact” – This panel, led by Josue Reyes, CEO of D. Wilson Construction, will feature Rose Benavidez, President of Starr County Industrial Foundation; Victor Perez, CEO of Pharr Economic Development Corporation; and Gilberto Salinas, CEO of The Greater Brownsville Incentives Corp. They will discuss the growing impact of construction and development in the RGV and the billions of dollars invested in the industry.
A Major Opportunity for Regional Growth
This event is important in helping businesses, industry leaders, and local officials work together to improve the economy and community. Attendees will make valuable connections, learn from experts, and discover new ways to contribute to the RGV’s success.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton McAllen Convention Center, 800 Convention Blvd, McAllen, Texas
This event is a must-attend for anyone interested in development, construction, and economic growth in the RGV. Don’t miss the chance to contribute to shaping the region’s future!
