Texas Leaders Unite to Promote Workforce Development at CM Gala

On April 23, 2026, leaders from Texas' construction materials sector congregated at the Texas State University Concrete Industry Management (CIM) program's Scholarship Gala in San Marcos. The event underscored the commitment to advancing education, developing workforce skills, and fostering leadership in this vital industry. The CIM initiative, supported by its National Steering Committee and Patron’s Board Foundation, awards over $100,000 in scholarships annually to help students chase careers in the aggregates, concrete, and cement fields.

At the gala, Governor Greg Abbott, Texas State Senator Pete Flores, and other industry representatives aligned with members of the Texas Aggregates and Concrete Association (TACA). They acknowledged the growing influence of the CIM program throughout the state. This program not only imparts specialized knowledge in aggregates and concrete but also bridges classroom learning with practical industry experience.

Currently, five universities across the United States offer CIM degree programs, with Texas State University among them. Other states with CIM programs include Tennessee, New Jersey, South Dakota, and California. Abbott pointed out the significant role of workforce development initiatives like CIM in underpinning Texas' economic growth and infrastructure enhancement. He proclaimed, "This program transforms the lives of everybody it touches. CIM graduates enjoy a 100% job placement rate and earn the highest salaries on campus. They don’t just pour foundations; they help lay the groundwork for the future of Texas."

Senator Flores stressed the urgent necessity to fortify the state’s workforce pipeline. Reflecting on his journey from Laredo to the Texas Senate, he inspired students to recognize the boundless opportunities that lay ahead. He asserted that CIM students are entering a workforce market with pressing needs that have often gone unmet. Flores encouraged attendees to understand that the limits of their futures are solely defined by their own aspirations.

He further took the opportunity to interact with students before and after the gala, emphasizing the critical importance of mentorship and industry connections.

TACA member companies have a long-standing relationship with CIM, providing scholarships, mentorship, and engagement opportunities to cultivate a robust talent pool capable of meeting the demands of one of the nation’s fastest-growing economies. TACA President and CEO Andrew Pinkerton expressed pride in the program, stating, "CIM is helping build the next generation of leaders who will literally shape the future of Texas. As our state continues to evolve, the necessity for a skilled and well-trained workforce in construction materials is more pressing than ever. We proudly support this program, preparing students for meaningful careers that are essential for every community in our state."

Pinkerton added, "With Texas leading the nation in growth, it’s programs like CIM that ensure we have the workforce ready to construct what lies ahead."

For details about TACA and its efforts in workforce development, check out tx-taca.org. To learn more about the CIM program, visit concretedegree.com.

About TACA

The Texas Aggregates and Concrete Association (TACA) serves as the foremost advocate for the aggregates, concrete, cement, and related industries in Texas. The association supports its members by providing critical industry information to the public, policymakers, and regulators. TACA also engages in advocacy for industry needs and promotes ethical business practices among its members. Moreover, it creates training programs and materials that assist members in managing their businesses effectively. To find out more, please visit tx-taca.org.