Our Story Is Paved with Partnership

Harold C. Mullen, Chief Executive Officer, Texas Asphalt Pavement Association

As I was contemplating my 2026 kickoff article for Texas Asphalt, it struck me that this will be my last year to write articles as the Chief Executive Officer of the Texas Asphalt Pavement Association (TXAPA). For those of you who did not attend TXAPA’s January Annual Membership Meeting, our President Cliff Kay gave me a “pink slip” symbolizing that my fulltime gig at TXAPA was coming to a close and that I have about 11 months to vacate the premises. I appreciate Cliff’s fun and personal approach to this change and yet again it reminded me that I find myself reflecting not on an ending, but on an extraordinary journey.

Thirty-one years ago, I could not have imagined the growth, resilience, and unity that would define this association. I am deeply humbled by what TXAPA has achieved over the past three decades, but I am equally certain that I am blessed to be in an industry filled with great and wonderful people who love to overachieve.

The accomplishments we celebrate today are the direct result of our members and member leaders. Their dedication, commitment, thoughtful planning, and proactive attitude have shaped every milestone along the way. From committee rooms to board meetings, from job sites to the State Capitol, our members have consistently chosen to do what is best for the asphalt pavement industry in Texas. That mindset, placing the long-term health of the industry above individual interests, has been one of our greatest strengths.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at TXAPA has been witnessing the power of partnership. Our long-standing relationship with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) stands as a model of collaboration. Through open dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to quality, we have worked together to improve specifications, advance materials research, and implement innovations that have enhanced pavement performance across the state. These efforts have not only strengthened our industry but have also delivered lasting value to Texas taxpayers.

Beyond TxDOT, we have built strong partnerships with local governments, universities, and national organizations such as the National Asphalt Pavement Association. Together, we have advanced workforce development initiatives, expanded training and certification programs, strengthened safety culture, and promoted environmental stewardship. Whether implementing balanced mix design practices or advocating for sound transportation policy, our progress has always been rooted in collaboration.

I have always believed that leadership is about bringing people together around a common purpose. Over the years, we have faced economic downturns, regulatory changes, and rapid technological evolution. Each time, our members responded with foresight rather than fear. They planned strategically. They engaged constructively. They tackled challenges with solutions in mind. That proactive approach has allowed TXAPA to remain strong, relevant, and respected.

As I look ahead to the next generation of leaders, I feel a profound sense of gratitude and optimism. I am proud of what we have built—strong relationships, meaningful partnerships, and measurable improvements in pavement quality and industry advocacy. But more than anything, I am truly grateful for the people who made it possible.

Serving this association has been one of the great privileges of my professional life. The story of TXAPA’s success is not mine—it is ours. And I am confident that the foundation we have built together will support even greater achievements in the years to come.