HCADFW welcomes new vision, builds on foundation of strong leadership

The Latino Cultural Center in Dallas was the setting for an evening of humble acknowledgments and visions for the future as the Hispanic Contractors Association of Dallas Fort Worth hosted an inauguration ceremony for its 2008 board of directors. Judge Juan Jasso issued the official Oath of Office.

Association President John H. Martinez-D. welcomed an auditorium of local minority business council and minority chamber leaders, corporate-buying partners and minority business entrepreneurs. He thanked Chris Escobedo, immediate past chair, for his leadership and described him as “a man who does not have an ego,” recounting Escobedo’s tireless and behind-the-scenes efforts to advance the business climate for Hispanic contractors.

Martinez went on to convey the significance of the gavel, which was being passed from Escobedo to the incoming chair, Patricia Rodriguez Gorman, as a symbol of “leadership for the unspoken voices of small and emerging contractors who do not know what to do or who to call.”

Escobedo recognized those who supported him during his tenure, including his wife; Martinez; Gilbert May, Phillips/May Corporation president; and an “incredible board.” He highlighted a handful of the association’s recent accomplishments, including a full-capacity 2007 convention and a successful Safety Fair. He expressed confidence in turning the gavel over to Gorman.

“I look forward to the experienced Pat Gorman,” Escobedo said. “[She] knows the industry.”

Before accepting the gavel, Pegasus Texas Construction LP’s Gorman, paused to recognize the vision of those who preceded her - Martinez, May and Luis Spinola, Azteca Omega Group president and CEO. She pledged to increase membership toward the 1,000 mark while remaining true to the association’s creed.

“It’s about economic development,” Gorman said. “It is our mission to maintain a safe environment. If you save a worker, you save a family.”