Épisodes

  • Leveraging Rail, Water, and Workforce: The Growth Story of TexAmerica Center

    Leveraging Rail, Water, and Workforce: The Growth Story of TexAmerica Center
    Jan 13 2026
    In this episode of Gone to Texas, "Super" Dave sits down with Eric Voyles, Executive Vice President and Chief Economic Development Officer of TexAmerica Center, to explore the transformation of a former military base into one of the largest mixed-use industrial parks in North America. Eric dives into the history, unique governance model, and strategic advantages of TexAmerica Center, including its impressive infrastructure investments and regional workforce. The conversation highlights how TexAmerica Center supports businesses of all sizes—from startups seeking industrial space to major companies pursuing large-scale manufacturing and logistics projects in the Texarkana region.

    They discuss the diverse industrial base, logistical connections—including rail, road, and fiber networks—and the center’s nimble approach to permitting and development. Special attention is given to the region’s highly skilled, loyal workforce rooted in rural values, and the center’s commitment to streamlining the growth process for new and expanding companies. The episode concludes with a look at TexAmerica Center’s forward-looking strategies, such as qualified sites, build-to-suit solutions, and its role as an industrial incubator.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • Transformation of military property into an industrial park
    • Special-purpose district structure and business-like operations
    • Infrastructure investments: utilities, fiber, water, and logistics
    • Regional manufacturing workforce and blue-collar culture
    • Cross-border workforce dynamics and commuting patterns
    • Streamlined permitting, site planning, and zoning flexibility
    • Logistics assets: interstate highways, rail connections, and fiber
    • Industrial incubator services and third-party logistics expertise
    • Build-to-suit development strategy and qualified sites program
    • Quality of life in Texarkana, including recreation, arts, and lifestyle
    • Strategies for scaling and partnerships with private developers
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    55 min
  • Cooling the Texas Data Center Bonanza

    Cooling the Texas Data Center Bonanza
    Jan 6 2026
    Dave sits down with Ronald Bekker, Managing Director for LU-VE Group North America, to discuss the company's journey expanding into the Jacksonville region of East Texas. The conversation highlights LU-VE's global expertise in industrial heat exchange and cooling solutions, their decision to build a significant manufacturing presence in Texas, and the challenges and opportunities of operating in a rapidly evolving market, especially with the explosive growth of data centers.

    Ronald shares candid reflections on adapting to East Texas culture, the importance of community partnerships, and the evolving requirements of workforce development in the area. Listeners get an inside look at LU-VE ’s strategic planning, from international acquisitions to securing local support and incentives, all within the context of Texas' business-friendly environment. The episode also explores what it’s like to relocate from Europe to the United States, encompassing personal insights on local values, lifestyle adjustments, and the unique business climate of East Texas. They also talk about the region’s growing industrial hub, collaborative community engagement, and the dynamic future of manufacturing and technology innovation in Texas.
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    32 min
  • EP 35 - How Family, Plastics, and Local Partnerships Power Business Growth in Jacksonville

    EP 35 - How Family, Plastics, and Local Partnerships Power Business Growth in Jacksonville
    Aug 15 2025
    In this episode, Dave welcomes Josh Hanna, President and General Manager of SCP Polymers and MYCO Plastics Inc, a custom injection molding company with operations in both Mississippi and Texas. Joshua shares his professional journey from studying polymer chemistry to joining his family’s business and expanding its footprint into Jacksonville, Texas. He discusses the decision-making process behind relocating the business, highlighting the advantages of operating in smaller Texas communities, including lower costs, a motivated workforce, and strong infrastructure connections.

    Josh also describes the types of products SCP Polymers manufactures, including commercial and military components, with a customer base that ranges from local businesses to large national companies. The episode features insights into workforce development in smaller towns, the supportive local business community, and the important partnership with Jacksonville’s economic development corporation. They also discuss his passion for dirt track racing, illustrating how his professional and personal lives intersect, particularly when innovations developed for racing are applied to business solutions.

    To learn more, visit: https://mycoplastics.com

    Key Topics Discussed:

    • Expanding SCP Polymers from Mississippi to Texas
    • Reasons for choosing Jacksonville, Texas, for business operations
    • Overview of products and customers served
    • Insights into hiring and workforce development in smaller towns
    • Local business community collaboration in Jacksonville
    • Support from Jacksonville Economic Development Corporation (JEDCO)
    • Josh's passion for dirt track racing and its impact on business innovation
    • How to contact SCP Polymers for manufacturing needs
    • Benefits of relocating or expanding a business to East Texas
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    29 min
  • EP 34 - How GVEC Fuels Economic Development and Opportunity in South Central Texas

    EP 34 - How GVEC Fuels Economic Development and Opportunity in South Central Texas
    Aug 1 2025
    Dave welcomes Darren Schauer, General Manager and CEO of GVEC (Guadalupe Valley Electric Cooperative), to discuss the pivotal role that cooperatives like GVEC play in supporting business growth and economic development in South Central Texas. Darren shares his extensive experience in the utilities industry and offers insight into what makes the Alamo region such an attractive destination for businesses considering relocation or expansion. From robust infrastructure and broadband services to a deeply rooted community culture, Darren details the comprehensive support systems and resources available through GVEC and partnering organizations such as the Gonzales Economic Development Corporation.

    They also discuss the unique cooperative structure that makes it highly responsive to local needs. The conversation highlights the importance of early engagement for business owners moving to Texas, with practical advice on navigating infrastructure needs and leveraging community connections for continued success.

    To learn more about GVEC, visit: https://www.gvec.org/

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • The role of GVEC in powering and supporting local businesses
    • The structure and advantages of electric cooperatives
    • Economic development initiatives and how GVEC collaborates with city and county partners
    • The importance of early engagement with utilities for incoming businesses
    • Resources available to companies once established in the area (energy efficiency, broadband, renewables)
    • Community and workforce culture in the Guadalupe Valley
    • A diverse array of industries served, from manufacturing to agriculture
    • Geographic advantages of South Central Texas, including access to major cities
    • Spotlight on what makes Gonzales, Texas, attractive for entrepreneurs
    • Direct contact information and approachable support for prospective business owners
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    23 min
  • Ep 33, Dustin Divinia’s Journey Building Big Systems in a Small Texas Town

    Ep 33, Dustin Divinia’s Journey Building Big Systems in a Small Texas Town
    Jul 15 2025
    In this episode of Gone to Texas, host "Super" Dave Quinn sits down with Dustin Divinia, President and CEO of Vector Systems, to discuss the company’s journey, operations, and their expansion from McKinney to Bonham, Texas.

    Dustin shares insights into the distinct culture at Vector Systems, the company's evolution from a three-man operation building custom control panels to becoming a critical supplier of process equipment for energy, refining, and manufacturing industries nationwide and internationally. He talks about the importance of organizational culture, adapting leadership styles during growth, and why Texas—especially rural communities like Bonham—offers unique advantages for businesses looking to expand.

    They also discuss the factors that make Texas attractive for industrial businesses, including workforce readiness, infrastructure, and the supportive nature of local economic development organizations. Dustin also recounts his experiences working with Bonham's city leaders and the direct benefits of engaging with the local community and chamber of commerce.

    To learn more about Bonham, visit our sponsor page at: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/

    To learn more about Vector Systems, visit: https://vectorsystems-usa.com/

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • Vector Systems’ business model and industry role
    • The evolution from a small startup to a major process package integrator
    • Strategic move and expansion from McKinney to Bonham, Texas
    • Managing company growth: scaling from 35 to over 100 employees
    • Importance of company culture over strategy
    • Attractiveness of Texas for business operations: infrastructure, workforce, independence
    • Differences between urban and rural Texas communities for businesses
    • Engagement with the Bonham Economic Development Corporation and city leaders
    • Community involvement as a key factor for successful relocation
    • Practical advice for business owners considering a move to Texas
    • Long-term vision for Vector Systems and its new Bonham headquarters
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    28 min
  • Ep 32, Jason Royse of Renlita, Bonham, Texas

    Ep 32, Jason Royse of Renlita, Bonham, Texas
    Jun 2 2025
    Welcome to another episode of Gone to Texas, where Dave sits down with Jason Royse, President of Renlita, a custom manufacturer of vertical folding doors, windows, and walls in Bonham, Texas. Jason shares the inspiring story of relocating his family business from North Carolina to Texas, the practical considerations behind such a big move, and why Bonham’s business-friendly environment, access to key markets, and strong local workforce made it the perfect new home for Renlita.

    You’ll hear how Jason’s team navigated the challenges of starting fresh in a new state, tapped into Bonham’s rich manufacturing talent pool, and connected with the local community to help fuel their growth. Plus, get an inside look at what life is like in a fast-growing North Texas town, how the local business infrastructure supports success, and Jason’s advice for business owners considering making the move to the Lone Star State.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • The factors that drove Renlita’s relocation from North Carolina to Bonham, Texas
    • How Bonham’s infrastructure, workforce, and supply chain environment support manufacturing growth
    • The process of moving operations and recruiting local talent
    • Importance of responsive, pro-business local government and community support
    • How Renlita accesses skilled labor, including welders and engineers
    • Quality of life for employees in and around Bonham, including recreation and commuting options
    • Navigating business challenges such as tariffs and supply chain disruptions
    • Strategic advice for other business owners considering a move to Texas
    • Long-term growth strategies and international market expansion for Renlita
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    26 min
  • Ep 31, John Littlefield of Southwest Engineers, Gonzales, TX

    Ep 31, John Littlefield of Southwest Engineers, Gonzales, TX
    Apr 15 2025
    In this episode of Gone To Texas, "Super" Dave Quinn, sits down with John Littlefield from Southwest Engineers, based in the vibrant community of Gonzales, Texas. John takes us on a journey through his family's business, which has been a cornerstone in the civil engineering industry since 1978.

    As he shares the challenges and triumphs of operating in the Central Texas area, they discuss topics like rapid growth of the Austin metropolitan area and how it impacts local communities like Gonzales. John sheds light on the critical importance of building strong relationships, both in business and within the community, as a key to success. They also talk about the economic landscape of Texas, discussing the value of being located outside the bustling urban centers, particularly for young professionals seeking affordable living and quality of life.

    John offers his perspective on the state's approach to addressing infrastructure needs, including water resources, which are vital to supporting the influx of new businesses and residents.

    To learn more, visit: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • Growth and expansion of Southwest Engineers in Texas
    • Importance of relationships and trust in business success
    • Talent sourcing from local universities
    • Benefits of establishing businesses in rural communities
    • Water infrastructure challenges and opportunities
    • Maintaining company culture while expanding
    • Access to financial resources through local banks
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    28 min
  • Episode 30 - Joe Reid, Te'jun/The Texas Cajun, Fairfield, TX

    Episode 30 - Joe Reid, Te'jun/The Texas Cajun, Fairfield, TX
    Mar 28 2025
    Welcome back to another episode of Gone to Texas where Dave is visiting Fairfield, TX and sits down with Joe Reed, the proud owner of Te'jun, the Texas Cajun. Joe shares his journey that began in 1997 as a humble weekend venture to provide for his daughters' college education.

    They also talk about his inspiring story of growth, grit, and faith. From boiling crawfish in a food trailer to running multiple brick-and-mortar locations, Joe's path is a testament to the power of perseverance and community support. Join Super Dave Quinn as he chats with Joe about the challenges and blessings of expanding a business, the invaluable role of the Economic Development Corporation (EDC), and the unwavering belief in serving others and following where faith leads.

    To learn more, visit: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/
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    52 min