866-217-7794

Discuss Your Project
TGB Group

Author: Doug Thomas

  • TGB Philanthropy in 2022 Included Tornado Relief and Montgomery County Meals on Wheels

    TGB Philanthropy in 2022 Included Tornado Relief and Montgomery County Meals on Wheels

    We also had an opportunity to donate to Make-A-Wish

    One of the greatest privileges for everyone here at TGB Group is being able to give back to our community.  We place high importance on philanthropy and feel connected when we can help out through volunteer hours, sponsorships and charitable outreach to good causes.

    For the most part, our efforts are focused on business and civic needs, such as economic development and health.

    Local philanthropy

    Here are some highlights from 2022.

    Tornado relief

    In the spring of 2022, TGB Group was excited to be able to support several cities in the aftermath of a tornado that went through the Jacksboro, Texas, area.

    Working closely with the Jacksboro Economic Development Center, we contributed various school supplies and games for many of the children who were affected by the disaster.

    Meals on Wheels

    Meals on Wheels philanthropy

    Throughout 2022, much of our philanthropy focused on Meals on Wheels of Montgomery County, Texas.  This worthy organization is committed to providing meals and transportation to homebound seniors throughout the county.  Last year, we donated more than 100 hours of time to Meals on Wheels by prepping food and organizing pillow and care packages.

    In September, we took part in another Miles for Meals fundraiser.  (Here’s a little about the next Miles for Meals, scheduled for March 2023.)

    Make-A-Wish

    Make-A-Wish philanthropy

    Recently, we had the opportunity to donate to Make-A-Wish and see firsthand how our commitment to philanthropy and giving back made a difference in young lives at Disney World in November.

    Make-A-Wish grants wishes to children from 2 to 18 years old who are struggling with a critical illness.  Our donations helped a family of six enjoy a full day of fun with tickets and bubble blowers at no cost to them. Watching the excitement of any child is thrilling, but when a child is sick and finds the strength to be happy, the feeling for us is indescribable.  We were humbled and thankful to be a part of that experience.

    The TGB Team

  • Conference Theme Was “Supply Chains and Intelligent Infrastructure”

    Conference Theme Was “Supply Chains and Intelligent Infrastructure”

    The Victoria, Texas, Chamber of Commerce sponsored the conference

    The Transportation Committee of the Victoria Chamber of Commerce held its ninth annual Transportation Conference on December 6, 2022, at the Victoria College Emerging Technology Complex in Victoria, Texas.  TGB Group was proud to be a lunch sponsor for this important annual event.

    The theme this year was “Supply Chains and Intelligent Infrastructure.”  The program featured a variety of experts from many segments of the transportation industry, who presented information about current transportation issues.

    A highlight of the conference was the awarding of three $1,000 scholarships to local students who are pursuing degrees in engineering or transportation.  The scholarships were sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Victoria.

    About the Victoria Chamber of Commerce

    The Victoria Chamber of Commerce is a leader in helping to develop the business climate and economic growth within the greater Victoria area.  TGB Group always enjoys participating in events organized by this vital chamber.

    Joe Lyon, president of the Victoria Chamber, notes that “the Chamber is committed to creating connections through events and other initiatives.  They are grateful for the leadership and compassion of the Chamber members and supporters.  A strong and active Chamber provides the invaluable benefit of a unified voice for growth of business in our great city.”

    Consider attending the 2023 conference

    The ninth annual Transportation Conference was held at the University of Houston Victoria – Northwest Campus.  It was an exciting time for everyone involved and a great opportunity to learn about important issues affecting transportation in our area.  It was also a chance to meet old friends in the industry and make new connections.

    If you work in the transportation industry in or around Victoria, Texas, consider planning to attend the 2023 conference.  Check with the Victoria Chamber’s website, linked above, for information on dates, times and places.

    The TGB Team

  • Join Us for the 2022 South Texas Transportation Conference in Victoria, Texas

    Join Us for the 2022 South Texas Transportation Conference in Victoria, Texas

    The 9th annual South Texas Transportation Conference theme is “Supply Chains and Intelligent Infrastructure”

    TGB Group invites you to come and be part of the 2022 South Texas Transportation Conference, being held this year on December 6 at the University of Houston Victoria.

    The conference, sponsored by the Victoria Chamber of Commerce, will begin at 8:15 a.m. and run through 2:30 p.m.

    Conference keynote speaker

    Steve Schellenberg.

    A great lineup of speakers is in place to bring valuable information to attendees, most of whom work in the railroad or general transportation industries throughout the state of Texas.

    This year’s keynote speaker is Steve Schellenberg, vice president of business development for IMS Worldwide.  Steve will discuss strategies for creating industrial development value and opportunity through logistics and supply chains.

    Steve has worked in transportation, logistics, distribution and manufacturing for more than 30 years and brings specific expertise in the management of global distribution, third-party logistics and automotive supply chains.  He is considered an expert on issues surrounding the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

    South Texas Transportation Conference highlights

    Throughout the day, a large roster of speakers will address a variety of transportation and logistics topics, including:

    • IH 69 update
    • Autonomy in future transportation
    • Intelligent infrastructure
    • Victoria Broadband Initiative
    • Logistic issues along Texas ports

    As in previous years, the goal of the South Texas Transportation Conference is to focus on transportation issues, news and ideas that impact the larger Texas transportation community and those who work in it.

    Licensed professional engineers will be able to earn CEU credit hours at the conference.

    TGB Group is sponsoring lunch, and we would love to see you there this year!  You can learn more about the conference, its speakers, becoming a sponsor and how to register by visiting the official conference website.

    The site of the conference is:

    University of Houston Victoria – Northwest Campus
    Victoria College of Emerging Technology Complex
    1604 E. Airline Rd., Victoria, Texas 77901

    The TGB Team

     

  • Enjoy the Many Benefits of a Corporate Membership with the TSLRRA

    Enjoy the Many Benefits of a Corporate Membership with the TSLRRA

    Secure your membership before the 2023 Annual Meeting

    The Texas Short Line and Regional Railroad Association’s annual meeting is coming up in February 2023, so now is a good time to plan for that and also to secure a membership with the TSLRRA for your company, if you don’t already have one.

    Who should hold a membership with the TSLRRA?

    tslrra membershipSince its inception in 2003, the TSLRRA has served the greater Texas railroad industry and many of its support industries.  Its mission is to promote economic growth and prosperity throughout Texas, remain active in public safety issues and work with local governments and organizations to enhance transportation infrastructure.

    Any company or individual in transportation, logistics, engineering, economic development or related fields should consider aligning with the Texas Short Line and Regional Railroad Association.

    You can learn more about the organization at the TSLRRA website.  Also, visit their LinkedIn page.

    TGB Group is proud of its membership with the TSLRRA.  It allows us to learn of important breaking news and trends in the industry we serve, which helps us continue to build our company in ways that best serve our customers and associates.

    TSLRRA’s leadership is committed to supporting its members as we all work together to build better jobs and futures in this always-vital industry.

    New memberships and renewals

    Check the TSLRRA website (linked above) for details on registration for the TSLRRA 2023 Annual Meeting, which will be held in Austin, Texas, on February 13. We hope to see you there!

    If you already have a TSLRRA membership, keep an eye out for membership renewal notices, which are currently being sent out.  As a reminder, this is a members-only meeting, so dues will need to be current.

    If you have questions, contact Anabelle Cormier or send an e-mail to: info@tslrra.org.

    Thank you for keeping Texas on track!

    The TGB Team

  • The TEDC 2022 Annual Conference Was a Powerful Event and a Great Learning Experience

    The TEDC 2022 Annual Conference Was a Powerful Event and a Great Learning Experience

    Here’s a conference overview and a letter from the Texas Economic Development Council’s 2022 board chair.

    The TEDC 2022 Annual Conference was held October 19-21 on the Riverwalk in San Antonio.  The three-day event saw a number of industry experts addressing the membership about important economic development topics.

    A key part of the conference was discussion panels that featured economic development professionals who shared their knowledge and experience.  It was a great opportunity to learn, network and engage with our peers in economic development.

    Presentations at the TEDC 2022 Annual Conference

    Presentations this year included ideas from government program officers and industry experts for communities looking to develop a broadband strategy for infrastructure funding.  Helpful information was given on federal and state funding opportunities for communities and companies.

    The TGB Group was a proud sponsor of the golf tournament.  Being a sponsor is a wonderful way to support the Texas Economic Development Council in its mission and year-round activities.  Sponsorship of events helps the council to:

    • Meet the needs of economic developers in Texas
    • Host quality events, such as the annual conference
    • Serve as an advocate at the Texas Capitol

    From Wesley Burnett, CEcD, Nacero & TEDC board chair

    “It has been another wonderful year to be a part of an organization that continues to grow in stature and influence – none of which could be accomplished without the strong support of our members – undoubtedly our greatest resource. Our membership continues to grow each year. In fact, membership in the TEDC is at an all-time high.

    “Although these past couple of years have been unpredictable at times and definitely challenging for many, having the support and commitment of economic development professionals like you makes all the difference in the world.

    “I have been extremely honored to be a part of the TEDC leadership team. The TEDC has a long legacy of providing best practices for economic development professionals through education, advocacy, resources and networking.”

    Wesley Burnett, CEcD
    Director-community relations, Nacero
    TEDC 2022 board chair

     

    We hope to see you next time

    The TEDC 2022 Annual Conference was an amazing event.  We bet the next conference will be even more amazing!

    The TGB Group

  • Gather and Learn at the TSLRRA 2022 Annual Meeting

    Gather and Learn at the TSLRRA 2022 Annual Meeting

    Mark your calendar for this important railroad industry event in Austin

    The Texas Short Line and Regional Railroad Association has announced the TSLRRA 2022 Annual Meeting, coming up Feb. 13 and 14 in Austin, Texas.  Rail firms, engineering companies, railroad consultants and many other professionals consider this event one that shouldn’t be missed.

    Check back with the association’s website as details on the meeting are published.

    Why we’re attending the TSLRRA 2022 Annual Meeting

    TGB Group tries to make all the “key” meetings and events that are related to our civil engineering and project management work in the railroad industry.  Texas Short Line meetings are always a priority for our team because we get to learn the most current news and information that could and does affect our business and the Texas rail industry as a whole.

    We encourage you to make plans for the TSLRRA 2022 Annual Meeting.  Maybe we’ll see you there!

    About the Texas Short Line and Regional Railroad Association

    If you’re not familiar with the TSLRRA, here are some highlights about the association and the state of the rail industry.

    A lot is riding on short lines

    Short line rail serves companies and industries with more than 475,000 employees who generate $56 billion in economic value-add.

    Locally owned and operated

    Texas short line railroads are often locally owned and operated and are critical parts of the communities they serve.

    Want to save on gas costs?

    Freight transport is highly economical: a ton of freight moved across 479 miles of short line track uses only one gallon of diesel fuel.

    That’s a lot of freight

    Each year, close to 380 million tons of freight are moved along Texas railroads.

    The environment likes rail transport

    Rail transportation of freight creates 75% fewer greenhouse gases than trucks and accounts for just 0.6% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.

    TSLRRA provides comprehensive services

    • Active in legislative & regulatory issues
    • Advocates for advancing safe railway operations
    • Provides industry education & professional training
    • Promotes ethical operating & business standards
    • Supports responsible environmental practices
    • Partners with government and private industry for economic growth

    Learn more about the Texas Short Line and Regional Railroad Association.

    Make plans to attend the 2022 TSLRRA Annual Meeting

    If you haven’t already marked your calendar, do it now and don’t miss out on what will surely be a fantastic annual meeting and a chance to network and renew acquaintances.

    The TGB Group

     

  • Intern Positions Open to Success-Minded College Students

    Intern Positions Open to Success-Minded College Students

    Work, learn and get paid in the civil engineering/rail design field

    TGB Group has launched an intern program in partnership with the career centers of some area trade schools and community colleges.  Intern positions are available now in the civil engineering field with a focus on survey and rail design for railroad operations.

    This is a great opportunity for students seeking to expand their working knowledge through hands-on experience in the Houston, Texas, and Kansas City, Mo., areas.

    What we offer in our intern positions

    • All intern positions are paid
    • Flexible part-time hours
    • Work with AutoCAD and other industry-standard software
    • Learn to communicate well with superiors, colleagues and teams
    • Everything is coordinated through your school
    • Learning experiences you can only get in the real work world

    When we welcome you on board as an intern, you won’t just be a convenient body to go get coffee and answer the phones.  You’ll be an important part of the work we do, and you’ll learn and do the things it takes to make projects successful.

    Part of your learning experience with TGB Group will come in the form of feedback from supervisors.  All teams need a leader, and our project managers are the best in the business.  They want to guide you and teach you the things you need to learn to be a valuable member of an engineering and design team – or any kind of team, for that matter.

    Add this to your resume

    Intern positions always look good on resumes.  So do references from internship providers.  When you’re finished with your college studies and it’s time to move into a new career, your time with our team can make a big difference in the doors that open for you.

    Take the next step

    If our intern positions sound right for you, take the next step.  Check out our LinkedIn page or send us an e-mail and tell us about your current school work and career goals.  We’d love to speak with you further about developing a positive partnership.

    Get in touch at: Admin@thetgbgroup.com

    The TGB Team

     

  • Join the TGB Team for the Miles for Meals Fundraiser in Conroe, Texas

    The Miles for Meals fundraiser is is all about funds AND fun!

    Join the TGB Team for the Miles for Meals Fundraiser in Conroe, Texas

    This is a great way to help out our area seniors

    What are you doing on March 25, 2023?  If you answer, “I don’t know,” we have a suggestion you might like.

    Meals on Wheels of Montgomery County is sponsoring another exciting Miles for Meals fundraiser consisting of a sponsored 10K and 5K race.  You can be a serious runner and go full blast, or you can be just an average person and do the best you can.  It’s not about winning – it’s about helping.

    Get all the information you need about this awesome event here.

    This year’s Miles for Meals fundraiser

    The Miles for Meals 5K/10K Fun Run is scheduled for Saturday, March 25, 2023 at B52 Brewing, located at 12470 Milroy Lane in Conroe, Texas.  Registration begins at 7:45 a.m. with warmups at 8:40 and then the races at 9.

    Runners arrange for sponsorships, with the money going to help the important mission of Meals on Wheels of Montgomery County.

    Everyone who participates in the Miles for Meals fundraiser will get a “swag bag” with a T-shirt, a commemorative print glass and coins for various beverages.  The top three finishers in each age group will receive awards.

    If you’re not a runner, so what?  You can walk the whole course or as much of it as you’d like.  For every $125 you raise, a senior will receive meals for an entire month!

    This will be the 5th annual Fun Run, and we expect a great turnout with all kinds of people who love to have fun and help to support seniors throughout the Montgomery County area.

    About Meals on Wheels

    The organization known today as Meals on Wheels of Montgomery County was founded in 1973 in Conroe.  It was a small organization with a big idea: to make sure seniors in the area had healthy meals delivered to them and were provided transportation to necessary appointments.

    Now some 50 years later, Meals on Wheels supplies around 300,000 meals and 15,000 rides each year.  All this is made possible by generous support and special events such as the Fun Run Miles for Meals fundraiser.

    We hope to see you in San Antonio this March!

    The TGB Group

  • TGB Group Was Proud to Be a Bronze Sponsor at the 2022 Ports to Plains Annual Conference

    Mark Willis, executive director of the Big Spring Economic Development Corporation, speaks at the 2022 Ports to Plains Annual Conference.

    TGB Group Was Proud to Be a Bronze Sponsor at the 2022 Ports to Plains Annual Conference

    The Ports to Plains Alliance is working for all of us

    Some of our TGB Group team had a fantastic time at the 2022 Ports to Plains Annual Conference, held in Big Spring, Texas, Sept. 14-16.

    We heard from a large number of speakers who, like all of us, support the mission of the Ports to Plains Alliance: to advocate for a robust international transportation infrastructure to promote economic security and prosperity throughout North America’s energy and agricultural heartland, including Mexico to Canada.

    In the 1990s, civic and elected leaders in Lubbock, Texas, had a goal of improving U.S. 87/287 north and south of I-27 between Amarillo, Texas, and Lubbock.  The objective was to increase the economic benefits of trade and create more trade opportunities.

    Today, there are three High Priority Corridors designated by the federal government and covering more than 2,300 miles.

    The 2022 Ports to Plains Annual Conference was a prime learning experience

    TGB Group and many other businesses in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Colorado are 100-percent behind the expansion and continued development of the Ports to Plains Corridor.  The corridor begins in Laredo, Texas, and winds through the above-mentioned states before it finally meets up with the Heartland Expressway.  The expressway continues through northern Colorado, Nebraska and Wyoming.  Finally, the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway runs from Rapid City, S.D., through parts of North Dakota and Montana.

    Everyone who attended the 2022 Ports to Plains Annual Conference enjoyed hearing the wealth of information presented and renewing friendships with colleges they may not have seen since the last conference.

    The Ports to Plains Corridor is beneficial in so many ways.  Based on 2018-19 numbers, the corridor serves:

    • 5 of the top 15 wind-generation states
    • 27% of the ethanol refineries in America
    • 6 of the 10 states producing the most natural gas
    • 7 of the 15 highest oil-producing states
    • 7 of the top 10 farm states for land on farms
    • 3 of the top 10 farm states in the production of all farm commodities

    Attending the 2022 Ports to Plains Annual Conference reminded us of how important the corridor is for a lot of people and businesses in areas along the route.  We’re very happy that the corridor is now federally designated, and we stand behind the Ports to Plains Alliance as it continues to strive for more economic development, jobs and prosperity in the areas the corridor serves.

    The TGB Team

  • TGB Group Attended the MARS 2022 Summer Meeting

    TGB Group Attended the MARS 2022 Summer Meeting

    It’s always a great time at Midwest Association of Rail Shippers events

    TGB Group’s Mike Murphy and Beth Lynn recently attended the MARS 2022 Summer Meeting in Wisconsin.  The theme of this year’s meeting was “Switching the Focus for Mutual Success.”  The meeting was held July 18-19 in beautiful Lake Geneva, Wis.

    You can learn more about the MARS 2022 Summer Meeting here.

    Possibly more than at any other time in the past, companies that work in the rail industry today need to understand how to adapt and, as the meeting title says, “switch focus” in order to be solvent and successful in our uncertain economy.

    Talks and information we enjoyed at the meeting helped us answer many questions and map out positive business strategies for the future.

    Highlights of the MARS 2022 Summer Meeting

    • Orientation for new members and young professionals
    • Fabulous networking buffet dinner
    • MARS Executive Committee meeting

    Informative presentations by leadership from MARS, Eco-Energy, N. Bowdish Company, Union Tank Car Co., Watco Companies and others included:

    • “Navigating an Uncertain Economy & Turbulent Supply Chain”
    • “Customer Experience with Current Rail Service”
    • “Global Trends in Energy & Materials”
    • “Union Pacific Railroad Operating Update”
    • “Rail Equipment Market Update”

    That’s just an overview.  All MARS events are jam-packed with great speakers, great topics and great networking opportunities for anyone whose business is connected to North American rail shipping.

    About the Midwest Association of Rail Shippers (MARS)

    MARS is one of five regional associations that make up the North American Association of Rail Shippers (NARS). The organization covers Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, Missouri, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota in the United States.  Canadian territories include the provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

    MARS’ key objectives are to provide an open forum to discuss and resolve transportation issues, and to create programs that educate its members on railroad operating practices, new innovations in transportation and legislative matters.

    MARS has become the showcase forum for railroads and railroad customers to meet and discuss issues.  Semiannual meetings, such as the MARS 2022 Summer Meeting, welcome between 500 and 800 professionals and focus strongly on educational presentations and networking opportunities.

    We hope to see you at an upcoming MARS event!

    The TGB Team