Longview Chamber of Commerce Staff
Kelly Hall
President/CEO
903.237.4004
khall@longviewtx.com
David Jochum
Chief Operating Officer
903.237.4023
djochum@longviewtx.com
Shawna Stewart
Investor Support
903.237.4000
sstewart@longviewtx.com
Catherine Camp
Membership & Retention Coordinator
903.237.4009
ccamp@longviewtx.com
Morgan Wilcox
Business Development & Marketing Manager
903.237.4013
mwilcox@longviewtx.com
2026 Officers
Andy Hill Chair
Mobberly Baptist Church
Jennifer Ware Chair-Elect VeraBank
Brian Daugbjerg Chair of Finance
Longview Scrap & Metal Company
Lori Ivey Past-Chairman
State Farm Insurance – Lori Ivey
Vice Chairs
Casey Beddingfield Vice Chairman
RLM General Contractors
Mark Robinson Vice Chairman
AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company
Directors
Clay Thompson Texas Bank and Trust
Wesley Knight
Longview Regional Medical Center
Jessica LaRue
Harbour Smith Harris and Merritt PC
Michael Clements Jr. PDQ America, LLC
Adrienne Deason
Henry and Peters, P.C.
Don Deem
Cablelynx Broadband
Krupal Patel Scotties – Longview
Dana Rutland Right at Home
Andrew Coggins Eastman Chemical Company
Steve Mason
LeTourneau University
Shannon Moore
Longview City Council
Bill Stoudt County of Gregg
Julia Tubb
CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System
If there’s one word that defines this season for the Longview Chamber, it’s intentional.
Over the past year, and really, over the last several we’ve been clear-eyed about what our community needs to thrive long-term. Not just next quarter. Not just the next election cycle. But the next generation. That clarity has shaped everything we do, and it’s why the H.E.A.R.T. framework isn’t just a strategy on paper, it’s how we show up every day.
A healthy chamber is one that earns trust, manages resources wisely, and adapts as expectations
change. Business leaders today want more than goodwill, they want value. We’ve leaned into that reality by strengthening our operations, diversifying revenue, and focusing our time and energy where we can make the greatest impact. That discipline allows us to say “yes” to the right work and just as importantly, “no” to what no longer serves our mission.
Workforce challenges don’t start at the hiring stage; they start much earlier. That’s why we’ve doubled down on aligning education, employers, and opportunity. From early literacy through career pathways, we are helping employers connect with classrooms, educators understand industry needs, and students see a future right here in East Texas. When schools, businesses, and community leaders move in the same direction, real progress follows.
ADVOCACY: THE BUSINESS VOICE AT THE TABLE
Advocacy isn’t about politics, it’s about outcomes. It’s about ensuring that decisions made at the local, state, and federal levels support a competitive business environment and a strong quality of life. Whether the issue is infrastructure, workforce funding, water security, or housing, the Chamber remains a steady, solutions-focused voice. We act with intention, bringing people together, sharing information, and advocating for what matters.
Communities that win are communities that invest in themselves. Redevelopment isn’t just about buildings; it’s about people, neighborhoods, and opportunity. We’ve continued to champion efforts that strengthen our core, support smart growth, and create spaces where businesses can succeed and families want to live. Longview’s story is still being written and we’re committed to helping write the next strong chapter.
TALENT: LEADERSHIP FOR THE FUTURE
Talent attraction and retention don’t happen by accident. They happen when people feel connected, valued, and invited to lead. Through leadership programs, young professional engagement, and intentional pathways for involvement, we are building a
deeper bench of community leaders. The goal isn’t just to develop leaders, it is to keep them here, invested in Longview’s future.
What I’m most proud of isn’t any single program or initiative. It is the continued commitment of businesses, volunteers, educators, elected officials, and partners working together for the good of our community. Progress is rarely loud or flashy. More often, it’s steady, collaborative, and built on trust.
The Longview Chamber exists to lead people and lead prosperity. That work takes heart. It takes courage. And it takes all of us.
Thank you for believing in this community, investing in its future, and walking alongside us as we build what is next together.
PROGRESS is rarely loud or flashy. More often, it’s STEADY, COLLABORATIVE, and BUILT on TRUST.
The Longview Chamber of Commerce will celebrate a milestone evening of leadership and community impact at its 110th Annual Meeting and Banquet on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at the Maude Cobb Convention Center. This signature event brings together business and community leaders to reflect on the year behind us, look ahead to the future, and honor those whose work is making a lasting difference across East Texas.
Guests will enjoy a reception from 4:45 to 5:50 pm, followed by dinner served at 6:15 pm. The program will conclude at 8:00 pm.
The evening is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors, including Platinum Sponsor VeraBank; Reception Sponsor Partner Industrial, LP; Speaker Sponsor AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company; Supporting Sponsors Barksdale Federal Credit Union – Skyline, CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System, Gregg County Title / 1st Choice Title, and Henry & Peters, P.C.; and Business Award Sponsor Longview Scrap & Metal Company.
While the Annual Meeting marks an important moment for the Chamber, the heart of the evening lies in recognizing the individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and commitment are strengthening our community.
This year’s Community Impact Award will be presented to The Martin House Children’s Advocacy Center – Longview. The Martin House exists to raise awareness and ensure that every child impacted by abuse is heard, protected, and receives vital services for continued safety and future wellbeing. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Roxanne Stevenson, the organization has become a cornerstone of compassionate, trauma informed care across Gregg, Harrison, Marion, and Upshur counties.
Each year, the Chamber honors an organization that demonstrates exceptional dedication to improving community well-being. The Martin House’s unwavering commitment to child advocacy and its collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to care exemplify leadership rooted in purpose and compassion.
Through the One Child’s Future capital campaign, The Martin House has expanded both its reach and its impact. The campaign has increased access to essential services while transforming trauma into healing for children and families throughout East Texas. This recognition shines a well deserved spotlight on an organization that continues to raise hope, elevate awareness, and inspire support for its mission.
CHAIRMAN’S AWARD
Jack Post and Michael Clements
The Chairman’s Award will be presented to Jack Post and Michael Clements for their transformative leadership of The Martin House Children’s Advocacy Center. Jack serves on the Board of Directors, and Michael serves as Vice Chair of the Board. Together, their leadership has helped guide one of the most impactful initiatives in our region.
Through their stewardship of the One Child’s Future campaign, nearly $6 million has been raised toward a new trauma informed facility that will serve hundreds of children each year. Their work represents visionary leadership, collaboration, and a deep
Joyce Crane
The Longview Chamber of Commerce is proud to name Joyce Crane as the 2025 Large Business of the Year. Founded in 1985 as Joyce Steel Erection Ltd., the company has grown from a single crane operation into the largest crane fleet in the Ark La Tex region. Today, Joyce Crane operates five strategic terminals and employs more than 175 skilled professionals, all while maintaining an unwavering
commitment to safety, reliability, and customer excellence. Their heavy duty lifting and rigging services support critical industries including oil and gas, petrochemical, power, wind, paper, construction, and large scale industrial projects.
As a proud member of Marmon Crane Services under Berkshire Hathaway, Joyce Crane successfully blends strong local values with global capabilities. Their leadership, innovation, and investment in Longview exemplify excellence in every lift.
Energy Weldfab
Energy Weldfab has been selected as the 2025 Manufacturer of the Year for its outstanding contributions to the Longview community and regional economy. Each year, the Chamber recognizes a manufacturer that demonstrates excellence in operations while also making a meaningful impact beyond the workplace.
Energy Weldfab’s dedication to quality, workforce development, and community involvement sets a high standard for the manufacturing sector. Through steadfast support of local initiatives and partnerships with community organizations, the company has played a significant role in enhancing quality of life across East Texas. Their commitment to innovation and service reflects the very best of Longview’s manufacturing strength.
The Longview Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce the 2026 Board of Directors. These leaders represent the diverse and thriving business community that drives growth, innovation, and opportunity throughout Longview and the East Texas region. Their commitment to service supports the Chamber’s mission to champion business, strengthen our workforce, and enhance the quality of life for our community.
Together, the 2026 Board will guide the Chamber as we continue to build a strong economic future and expand the impact of our business initiatives, advocacy efforts, and engagement programs.
This dedicated group brings expertise from key industries including banking, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, professional services, nonprofit leadership, and small business. Their combined experience and commitment to Longview will play a vital role in shaping Chamber programs, strengthening partnerships, and advancing priorities that support our employers and our community.
The Chamber is grateful for their willingness to serve and lead. We look forward to an impactful year working alongside our 2026 Board of Directors as we continue to advance business success in Longview.
2021–2025 called for a different kind of leadership...steady, futurefocused, and unafraid to take on complex challenges. The Longview Chamber embraced that responsibility. Over the past five years, our work has centered on the issues that determine long-term prosperity for our region: education, workforce pipelines, attainable housing, innovation, business competitiveness, and regional alignment.
“One thing these five years taught us: when the business community comes together around a shared vision, transformation follows.”
- Kelly Hall, President/CEO
Anchored in the H.E.A.R.T. Framework; Health, Education and Workforce, Advocacy, Redevelopment, and Talent, the Chamber helped Longview navigate a rapidly shifting landscape and prepare for the future.
“This year proved that when the business community rallies around a shared vision, momentum follows. The Chamber didn’t just manage programs-we cultivated progress.”
- Lori Ivey, 2025 Chair of the Board
Across every initiative, the Chamber convened leaders, educators, employers, policymakers, and regional partners around shared outcomes. The result has been five years of measurable progress, strengthened collaboration, and a renewed commitment to building a dynamic and competitive Longview and East Texas.
Over the last five years, the Chamber strengthened its position as a highperforming, financially resilient, and forward-thinking organization. Behind-the-scenes work built the foundation for long-term success.
Key Wins:
• Increased TRC performance with new digital products-SMS/MMS, CTV, targeted YouTube, and behavioral audience campaigns.
• Strengthened the Chamber Foundation with literacy and workforce development grant pathways.
• Modernized internal systems with SOPs, board development frameworks, and foresight tools.
• Enhanced organizational resilience through stronger financial and operational alignment.
“Organizational health isn’t glamorous work-but it’s the engine. These last five years, we strengthened the engine.”
-
Dave Jochum, Chief Operating Officer
Preparing the next generation of talent requires leadership, alignment, and intentional partnership. The Chamber played a central role in connecting ISDs, employers, colleges, and policymakers around a shared workforce vision.
Major Achievements:
• LongviewREADS! expanded employer engagement, literacy videos, and school partnerships.
• LongviewMATH launched, mirroring literacy successes to build early numeracy.
• Superintendents Forum convened all Gregg County ISDs for AP Business & AP Cybersecurity alignment.
• Career Kickstart advanced AP-to-career pathways through internships, certifications, and employer mentorship.
State & Federal Policy Impact:
• Supported HB 8, modernizing the community college finance model and tying funding to workforce outcomes.
• Backed CTE improvements, dual credit affordability, and teacher certification flexibility.
One thing these five years taught us: when the business community comes together around a shared vision, transformation follows.”
- Kelly Hall, President/CEO
• Engaged in broadband expansion and digital equity planning.
• Supported short-term Pell expansion, workforce modernization, and CTE alignment at the federal level.
“Policy shapes pathways. These wins didn’t sit on a shelf; they fueled our work to strengthen the workforce of tomorrow.”
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Jennifer Ware, VeraBank
Advocacy became one of the Chamber’s strongest differentiatorsrepresenting business interests locally, regionally, statewide, and nationally.
Federal Impact:
• Protected key provisions of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act.
• Secured automatic tariff exclusions for small business importers.
• Supported carbon capture incentives, EPA primacy, and hydrogen tax credits.
• Backed modernization of H-1B and H-2B visa allocations.
• Supported U.S. Chamber litigation against FTC and CFPB regulatory overreach.
• Strengthened federal broadband investments benefiting East Texas.
State Impact:
• Backed HB 8 and major CTE reforms.
• Advanced aquifer sustainability and helped establish the Local Water Task Force.
• Elevated insurance pressures, mental health workforce barriers, and rail mobility needs.
• Kelly Hall appointed to Common Ground USA Texas Council to reduce polarization.
Regional Impact:
• Launched the East Texas Coalition in 2023. A permanent strategic body aligning regional priorities, shaping policy, strengthening influence, and supporting appointments.
Local Impact:
• Hosted candidate forums and annual Elected Officials Reception.
• Provided ballot briefings, scorecards, and policy summaries.
• Supported LISD bond and county parking facility.
• Mapped broadband, workforce, and housing gaps through dashboards.
• Launched the Affordable/Attainable Housing Task Force.
“We are entering a season where chambers must be catalytic, not just supportive. This work set the stage for the future business.”
- Mark Robinson, AEP/SWEPCO
Redevelopment and quality of place became defining issues for economic competitiveness. Over five years, the Chamber helped advance solutions in housing, infrastructure, and community development.
Key Wins:
• Local Water Task Force formation.
• Housing Task Force aligning with the City’s Housing Study.
• InterCity Trips accelerating redevelopment thinking and best practices.
• Broadband, transportation, and public safety challenges elevated through data and business input.
Following COVID, employers made one message clear: talent attraction, retention, and leadership development required new tools.
The Chamber responded with a modern talent strategy grounded in employer feedback.
Talent Platforms Launched & Strengthened:
• LongviewNOW! Toolkit (website, digital magazine, podcast) serving as the region’s front door for talent.
• 40 Under 40 Executive Series launched in 2021 with leadership coaching and community immersion.
• Leadership Longview continued its 40-year legacy, developing civic-minded leaders.
Looking Ahead:
• Continue strengthening employer-driven pathways.
• Expand digital-first recruitment tools.
• Deepen next-generation leadership development.
• Strengthen Longview’s brand as a destination for young professionals and families.
“The future belongs to chambers willing to lead boldly. Longview is stepping confidently into that role.”
- Andy Hill, Mobberly Baptist Church
At the Longview Chamber, we believe our role is clear: bring the right people together, use data to drive solutions, and advocate for what moves East Texas forward. Our most recent Superintendent Forum put all three of our uniques into motion.
We convened superintendents, CTE leaders, and employers from across Gregg County to take a deeper look at the new AP Business with Personal Finance and AP Cybersecurity courses - part of the College Board’s Career Kickstart initiative. These programs are designed to strengthen the bridge between high school learning, and the workforce needs of a rapidly changing economy.
And the conversation was exactly what our region needed.
District leaders were energized by the opportunity but candid about the realities:
ǂ The implementation timeline is tight.
Schools want to offer these courses, but certification requirements create real scheduling and staffing pressure.
ǂ Texas’s approval and funding process must be clear. Understanding the TEA pathway is essential for planning and budgeting.
ǂ They want collaboration, not top-down directives. They want employers engaged—authentically, consistently, and with purpose.
This is why the Chamber convenes. When educators have space to ask questions and compare notes, alignment becomes possible.
Our employers reinforced what we already know from the data:
ǂ Internships work.
They’re “walking job interviews” that help students mature and help employers identify talent early.
ǂ CTE pathways are workforce pipelines.
Industries across Longview—from manufacturing and healthcare to IT and logistics—depend on these skill sets.
ǂ Business wants a clear path to engage.
They want to participate, but the process needs to be simple, structured, and productive.
This is where the Chamber steps in as a strategic convener, bridging schools and businesses so both sides can focus on what they do best.
The new AP courses have the potential to become anchor points in regional CTE pathways:
These courses, when paired with real-world experiences and employer partnerships, help students graduate with both depth of knowledge and career readiness.
That’s the future-focused approach our region needs.
We are now coordinating with our districts to set our January follow-up meeting, where we will begin shaping a regional roadmap. Our goals include:
A special thanks to Laura Jackson with CWJ Strategies for helping us structure next steps and build clarity around the consortium framework.
CLICK ON business names to link to Chamber directory information or link directly to their business website.
5DF Electrical Services (903) 806-3675
110 Tracy Lynn St. Lot 140 Longview, TX, 75604 electrician-longview.com
American Heart AssociationEast Texas (903) 746-4988
7104 Holly Square Ct Tyler, TX, 75703 heart.org
DNC Facility Services (903) 694-9780
2175 State Hwy 149 Carthage, TX, 75633 dncfacilityservices.com
East Texas Precision Medicine (903) 212-7550
103 W Loop 281 Ste 472 Longview, TX, 75605 etpmed.com
Farmers InsuranceGoram-Welch Agency (903) 297-0048
2392 H G Mosley Pkwy Longview, TX, 75604 farmers.com
Harbor Hospice (903) 238-8290 1127 Judson Rd Suite 105 Longview, TX, 75601 harborhospice.com
HearingLife (903) 753-5329 1609 Judson Rd Longview, TX, 75601 hearinglife.com
La Prensa Latino (903) 236-0406 PO Box 12473 Longview, TX, 75602-2473 Facebook Page
Matthew Hill Law, PLLC (903) 806-0487
501 N Third Street Longview, TX, 75601 MatthewHillLaw.com
Mentoring Alliance (870) 814-5197 120 W Methvin St Longview, TX, 75601 thementoringalliance.com
Modern Roofing & Restoration (903) 636-3606
16075 Old Jacksonville Tyler, TX, 75703 modernroofingtx.com
PACK & POST + (903) 686-0731
2309 Gilmer Rd Ste 101 Longview, TX, 75604 packandpostpluslongview.com
Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins & Mott, LLP (903) 295-3708 911 W Loop 281 Ste 371 Longview, TX, 75604 pbfcm.com/index.html
Pine Aesthetics (903) 757-5220 110 Tall Pines Ste A Longview, TX, 75601 pineaesthetics.com
RocketFast! Car Wash (318) 232-1811 PO Box 100 Ruston, LA, 71273 rocketfastcarwash.com
Summit LED Lighting (903) 297-8181 756 S Eastman Rd Longview, TX, 75602 Directory Listing
The Texas Cafe (430) 267-2500 3090 N Eastman Rd, Ste 102 Longview, TX, 75605 Facebook Page
T-Mobile (903) 355-9867
116 E Loop 281 Ste 101 Longview, TX, 75605 t-mobile.com
Torque, LLC (903) 730-3794
2708 W Marshall Ave Longview, TX, 75604 Torqueauto.shop
Wound Management Specialists (903) 475-3474 515 3rd Street Longview, TX, 75601 woundmsllc.com
the page # and exact location of the ‘bug’. The first person to correctly find it and email Morgan will be notified. You must be a member of the Longview Chamber of Commerce to get a free 1/4 page ad.