As the owner of TFW Construction, a steel fabrication company rooted right here in our community, I’ve seen firsthand how industry and opportunity go hand in hand. In recent years, we’ve witnessed incredible growth across the Coastal Bend, and a major driving force behind that momentum is the presence of industry leaders like Steel Dynamics.

When a company like Steel Dynamics sets up shop in your region, the impact isn’t limited to their own footprint. It spreads out across the local economy. Businesses like mine feel it immediately, from the increased demand for steel and skilled labor to the new partnerships and project opportunities that come with it. It’s not just about what they’re building. It’s about what their investment builds around them.

At TFW Construction, we’ve been able to expand our team and take on more complex projects, all because the environment here is one that supports growth. The jobs being created in our area don’t just pay the bills. They build careers. They build confidence in our workforce. And they strengthen families who now see a future right here at home.

People sometimes overlook how deeply connected our local economy is. When industry grows, small businesses grow. Restaurants serve more meals, contractors get more calls, and local suppliers see steady orders. The ripple effect is real. It’s not theory it’s daily life for business owners like me.

Our region is on the rise, and it’s because we’ve leaned into the kind of economic development that brings long-term benefits. This isn’t about chasing flashy headlines. It’s about creating an ecosystem where everyone has a chance to succeed, from the biggest employers to the smallest family-run shops.

I believe in the future of this region. I believe in the people who work hard every day to keep things moving. And I’m proud to be part of a business community that is building something stronger, together.

John is a managing partner of TFW Construction, a steel fabrication company proudly serving South Texas and supporting the region’s growing industrial and commercial sectors.