TACA Emerging Leaders Academy Recognized for Community Service Initiative Providing 2,000 Backpacks to Texas Students

AUSTIN, Texas [Oct. 29, 2026] — The Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association’s (TACA) Emerging Leaders Academy (ELA) has been recognized by Communities In Schools of San Antonio for a community service project that doubled its original goal, providing 2,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to students in need across Texas.

The recognition took place Oct. 22 at Margil Elementary School in San Antonio, where ELA representatives joined Communities In Schools for an event highlighting the nonprofit organization’s work supporting students and families. The group was honored for its contributions to the organization’s mission.

As part of its community service project during TACA’s 2026 Annual Meeting, ELA members set out to assemble 1,000 backpacks filled with essential school supplies. Through the efforts of participating members and supporters, the group exceeded its goal by 100 percent, ultimately preparing 2,000 backpacks for distribution to students across Texas.

The backpacks were donated to three nonprofit organizations serving children and families throughout the state:

TACA’s Emerging Leaders Academy is designed to develop future leaders within Texas’ aggregates, concrete and cement industries by providing opportunities for professional development, industry education, networking and leadership experience.

“TACA’s Emerging Leaders Academy is about developing the next generation of leaders in the aggregates, concrete and cement industries, and an important part of leadership is recognizing our responsibility to the communities we serve,” said TACA President and CEO Andrew Pinkerton. “These young professionals took an ambitious goal and doubled it, demonstrating the initiative, teamwork and commitment to service that will help shape the future of our industry.”

Representing TACA and the Emerging Leaders Academy at the San Antonio recognition event were Nic DeWood,  Austin Powder Company; Jayde Young, Martin Marietta; Roberto Carrillo, Capitol Aggregates, Inc.; and Mark Mayle, Arcline Ready Mix – all of whom are graduating members of TACA’s 2025-2026 ELA class. During the event, students shared firsthand how Communities In Schools of San Antonio has made a difference in their lives.

The Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association (TACA) is the leading advocate for the aggregates, concrete, cement and other associated industries in Texas. The association represents its member companies by providing industry information to the public, media, policymakers and regulators; advocating for industry issues; ensuring member companies commit to conducting business with integrity, respect, transparency and honest communication; and creating industry training courses and materials that help members effectively manage their businesses. Please visit tx-taca.org.