Gone to Texas

Super Dave Quinn, CECD
  • 4.8 (20)
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Welcome to "Gone to Texas," the official podcast of the Texas Economic Development Connection. On every episode, we share the stories of business owners and CEOs who have relocated or expanded their business into Texas. Our goal is to use these stories as a guide to helps others who are ready to hang a sign on the door that says, Gone to Texas.

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

    2D AGO

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

    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 parkSpecial-purpose district structure and business-like operationsInfrastructure investments: utilities, fiber, water, and logisticsRegional manufacturing workforce and blue-collar cultureCross-border workforce dynamics and commuting patternsStreamlined permitting, site planning, and zoning flexibilityLogistics assets: interstate highways, rail connections, and fiberIndustrial incubator services and third-party logistics expertiseBuild-to-suit development strategy and qualified sites programQuality of life in Texarkana, including recreation, arts, and lifestyleStrategies for scaling and partnerships with private developers

    55 min
  2. Cooling the Texas Data Center Bonanza

    JAN 6

    Cooling the Texas Data Center Bonanza

    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.

    32 min
  3. EP 35 - How Family, Plastics, and Local Partnerships Power Business Growth in Jacksonville

    08/15/2025

    EP 35 - How Family, Plastics, and Local Partnerships Power Business Growth in Jacksonville

    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 TexasReasons for choosing Jacksonville, Texas, for business operationsOverview of products and customers servedInsights into hiring and workforce development in smaller townsLocal business community collaboration in JacksonvilleSupport from Jacksonville Economic Development Corporation (JEDCO)Josh's passion for dirt track racing and its impact on business innovationHow to contact SCP Polymers for manufacturing needsBenefits of relocating or expanding a business to East Texas

    29 min
  4. EP 34 - How GVEC Fuels Economic Development and Opportunity in South Central Texas

    08/01/2025

    EP 34 - How GVEC Fuels Economic Development and Opportunity in South Central Texas

    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 businessesThe structure and advantages of electric cooperativesEconomic development initiatives and how GVEC collaborates with city and county partnersThe importance of early engagement with utilities for incoming businessesResources available to companies once established in the area (energy efficiency, broadband, renewables)Community and workforce culture in the Guadalupe ValleyA diverse array of industries served, from manufacturing to agricultureGeographic advantages of South Central Texas, including access to major citiesSpotlight on what makes Gonzales, Texas, attractive for entrepreneursDirect contact information and approachable support for prospective business owners

    23 min
  5. Ep 33, Dustin Divinia’s Journey Building Big Systems in a Small Texas Town

    07/15/2025

    Ep 33, Dustin Divinia’s Journey Building Big Systems in a Small Texas Town

    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 roleThe evolution from a small startup to a major process package integratorStrategic move and expansion from McKinney to Bonham, TexasManaging company growth: scaling from 35 to over 100 employeesImportance of company culture over strategyAttractiveness of Texas for business operations: infrastructure, workforce, independenceDifferences between urban and rural Texas communities for businessesEngagement with the Bonham Economic Development Corporation and city leadersCommunity involvement as a key factor for successful relocationPractical advice for business owners considering a move to TexasLong-term vision for Vector Systems and its new Bonham headquarters

    28 min
  6. Ep 32, Jason Royse of Renlita, Bonham, Texas

    06/02/2025

    Ep 32, Jason Royse of Renlita, Bonham, Texas

    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, TexasHow Bonham’s infrastructure, workforce, and supply chain environment support manufacturing growthThe process of moving operations and recruiting local talentImportance of responsive, pro-business local government and community supportHow Renlita accesses skilled labor, including welders and engineersQuality of life for employees in and around Bonham, including recreation and commuting optionsNavigating business challenges such as tariffs and supply chain disruptionsStrategic advice for other business owners considering a move to TexasLong-term growth strategies and international market expansion for Renlita

    26 min
  7. Ep 31, John Littlefield of Southwest Engineers, Gonzales, TX

    04/15/2025

    Ep 31, John Littlefield of Southwest Engineers, Gonzales, TX

    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 TexasImportance of relationships and trust in business successTalent sourcing from local universitiesBenefits of establishing businesses in rural communitiesWater infrastructure challenges and opportunitiesMaintaining company culture while expandingAccess to financial resources through local banks

    28 min
  8. Episode 30 - Joe Reid, Te'jun/The Texas Cajun, Fairfield, TX

    03/28/2025

    Episode 30 - Joe Reid, Te'jun/The Texas Cajun, Fairfield, TX

    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/

    52 min
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4.8
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About

Welcome to "Gone to Texas," the official podcast of the Texas Economic Development Connection. On every episode, we share the stories of business owners and CEOs who have relocated or expanded their business into Texas. Our goal is to use these stories as a guide to helps others who are ready to hang a sign on the door that says, Gone to Texas.

Information

  • Creator
    Super Dave Quinn, CECD
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    38
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Day One Experts
  • Show Website
    Gone to Texas