First, I would like to thank Gabriel Beltran for passing the torch. Gabriel said it best when he remarked that COMTO has always worked to ensure that transportation serves all communities. His leadership has helped strengthen our chapter and reinforce the values that continue to guide our work today.

It is with great honor that I serve as the new President of COMTO North Texas. I am excited to continue the important work of our organization alongside the dedicated board members who have built a strong foundation and the new board members who will help lead us into the future. This is a pivotal moment for our chapter and our collective strength, unity, and commitment will be critical as we continue to advance opportunity, access, and inclusion throughout the transportation industry.

Today, however, we find ourselves in a challenging environment. Efforts aimed at increasing representation and expanding opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds are being questioned and challenged at unprecedented levels. These challenges not only threaten the progress achieved through civil rights advancements that have opened doors to education, career growth, and economic mobility, but they also directly challenge COMTO's vision and mission. In times such as these, our commitment to creating pathways to opportunity and ensuring broad participation across the transportation industry is more important than ever.

Transportation extends far beyond buses and trains. It encompasses highways, aviation, transit systems, infrastructure, and emerging mobility solutions that connect communities and drive economic growth. Our focus remains clear: creating meaningful opportunities for professional advancement, investing in students pursuing transportation-related careers, and ensuring our current and future members have access to the opportunities generated by transportation projects across North Texas and throughout the state.

I envision the COMTO North Texas Chapter as a leading organization that fosters professional development, strengthens business relationships, and creates pathways to success for individuals and organizations across our region. Together, we will continue building a strong network that supports personal growth, expands business opportunities, and helps shape a more inclusive, connected, and prosperous future for the transportation industry.

As we move forward, I look forward to working alongside our members, partners, and community leaders to build on our successes and create new opportunities for the next generation of transportation professionals. Together, we will ensure that COMTO North Texas remains a strong voice and a catalyst for progress in our industry and the communities we serve.tion text goes here