(Seguin) – A trio of businesses and community partners were recently recognized for their contributions to Seguin’s economy. The recognitions were extended during the Seguin Economic Development Corporation’s 14th Annual Business Appreciation Luncheon.
The luncheon, held Sept. 10 at the Seguin Coliseum, brought together local entrepreneurs, organizations, and community leaders to celebrate the role businesses play in Seguin’s continued growth.
Three awards were presented during the event, recognizing workforce development, economic investment and community service.
Texas State Technical College received the Workforce Champion Award for its efforts to provide regional training in high-demand fields, including advanced manufacturing, building construction, industrial maintenance and welding.
TSTC also works with local employers to help strengthen the area’s workforce. Its planned permanent Seguin campus, supported by 133 acres acquired by the SEDC along State Highway 46 and Cordova Road, is expected to expand access to technical education and workforce training for local residents.
Ranch Hand received the Economic Impact Award for its investment in Seguin through the development of a new 400,000-square-foot manufacturing facility.
The more than $80 million project is expected to approximately double the company’s manufacturing capacity, consolidate its existing Shiner and Beeville operations and create an estimated 320 new jobs.
Elaine Bennett, SEDC Board President, was also presented the Community Impact Award for nearly three decades of service and leadership in Seguin through her work with Guadalupe Regional Medical Center and numerous local organizations.
Among her community efforts was helping coordinate food distributions during the COVID-19 pandemic that provided more than 1.6 million pounds of food to families throughout Guadalupe County. She has also remained involved with food drives, emergency food pantries and Meals on Wheels.
SEDC Executive Director Alora Wachholz says the annual luncheon provides an opportunity to recognize the businesses and community partners that contribute to Seguin.
“We host this event each year as an opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to our local businesses and community partners and to recognize the contributions they make to Seguin,” said Wachholz. “Their continued investment, partnership, and commitment play an important role in making Seguin a place where both businesses and people can succeed.”
The luncheon also focused on how locally owned businesses can continue to distinguish themselves as Seguin grows and attracts larger national retailers and companies.
Keynote speaker Edie Weintraub, founder of Terra Alma, highlighted the people behind locally owned businesses and shared examples of ways small businesses can continue to stand out and thrive as the community changes.
The SEDC also recognized GVEC Economic Development for sponsoring the luncheon and helping bring local business and community leaders together.
The SEDC was created in 1994 as a Type 4A corporation with the goal of marketing Seguin as a location for new business investment and job creation. The corporation works to attract new businesses, support existing businesses and foster economic growth in Seguin.