TXAPA Magazine
President’s Message
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A Call Worth Answering
By Cliff Kay, A.L. Helmcamp, 2026 TXAPA President
When I received the call asking if I would consider serving as your 2026 TXAPA President, I will be honest: I paused. The association has taken significant strides in recent years, and the leaders who came before me have done big, meaningful things. I found myself asking whether I could truly fill those shoes, both in honoring the work of my predecessors and in meeting the responsibility that comes with this role.
I was also very aware of what saying yes would mean. A real investment of time and energy, and time away from my family. My wife Wendy and I spent a lot of time talking it through. In the end, we agreed this was something we could do together.
“What made that decision easier was knowing I would not be stepping into this role alone. The TXAPA staff has truly held both Wendy’s and my hands through this transition and made it a fantastic new path in our lives. They are an incredible team, and they have made the move into this role seamless.”
The first month has already been a whirlwind, starting with record attendance and a beautiful day of golf at the annual Membership Meeting. It was fantastic to see so many of our members enjoying the perfect weather. Mother Nature was kind to us this year.
The following day, I fulfilled one of my first official duties as president, honoring our outgoing president, board members and committee chairs. I would like to sincerely thank everyone who served in 2025. This Association does not move forward without those who volunteer and dedicate their time and talent to TXAPA.
I also want to extend a huge thank you to Past President Eric Suarez. In late 2024 and throughout 2025, he included me in all matters TXAPA and prepared me for this role with generosity and intention. I can only hope to mentor future TXAPA leaders the way he mentored me. Well done, Eric.
n the coming issues of Texas Asphalt, I will be sharing more about the 4Ps. If you missed the Membership Meeting, I introduced the four pillars that will guide me during my presidency: Partnership, Planning, Performance, and Participation. I will expand on them here in these pages throughout the year.
In the meantime, please know that I am here, I am committed, and I look forward to serving you in 2026.