Description

Building Taylor: Materials, Markets & Margins

Join us for Building Taylor, a high-level summit-style conversation designed to dismantle the complexities of one of today’s most pivotal economic hurdles: tariffs.

This event brings together a powerful alliance of leaders from the construction, manufacturing, and legislative sectors to examine how evolving trade policies ripple through our local economy. Our expert panelists will move beyond the headlines to provide grounded, real-world insights into:

• Cost Volatility: Understanding the direct impact on raw material pricing.
• Logistical Hurdles: Navigating the current strain on global and local supply chains.
• Operational Margins: Strategies for protecting project timelines and bottom-line profitability.

Whether you are managing a job site, overseeing a production floor, or shaping regional policy, this session is built to connect the dots between global markets and local decision-making. Prepare to leave with a sharpened perspective on the current trade landscape and a clearer vision for the future of building and manufacturing in our region.

Meet Our Panelists

Phil Thoden President & CEO, Associated General Contractors (Austin Chapter)

Phil Thoden has led the Austin Chapter of the AGC since 2003, serving as a primary advocate for commercial construction companies across Central Texas. With decades of experience navigating the intersection of industry and policy, Phil provides an essential perspective on how shifting material costs and labor trends impact the job site and the regional skyline.

Tony Bennett President & CEO, Texas Association of Manufacturers

As the voice for over 600 member companies, Tony Bennett leads the charge on legislative, regulatory, and economic policy for the Texas manufacturing sector. Based in Austin, Tony brings a macro-level understanding of how global trade shifts affect the production floor, local exports, and the state’s industrial competitive edge.

Meet Our Moderator

Hon. Larry Gonzales Former Texas State Rep | Lobbyist | Founder, Desk 138

First elected to the Texas House in 2010, the Honorable Larry Gonzales served four terms, notably as Chairman of both the Sunset Advisory Commission and an Appropriations Subcommittee. He brings deep legislative, budgeting, and state agency restructuring expertise to his role as founder of Desk 138.

Why Attend?

Whether you are managing a job site, overseeing a production floor, or shaping regional policy, this session is built to connect the dots between global markets and local decision-making. Prepare to leave with a sharpened perspective on the current trade landscape and a clearer vision for the future of building and manufacturing in our region.

Note: Space is limited for this summit-style conversation. Please RSVP to secure your seat at the table.