Subc Journal 122nd

SUBCONTRACTORS

USA

TEXAS JOURNAL W W W. S U B C U S A . C O M

Architecture | Construction | Education | Energy | Engineering | Technology | Oil and Gas | Safety | Transportation | TxDOT | Utility & Infrastructure

May 2026 | Advertising for Certified Women, Small Business, Veteran & Minority-Owned Subcontractors | 122nd Edition

FlavorFest Turns Procurement

Into Opportunity

for Houston’s Small Businesses

HOUSTON CITY COLLEGE SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM 16-17 10-11

INSIDE GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

FRIDAY, JUNE 26 8AM - 3PM 02 SUBCONTRACTORS USA Top 25 Awards Luncheon & Mini-Expo

12 Billions in Water Infrastructure Across Texas and What It Takes to Move It

16

How to Get Registered with TxDOT

2 | May 2026

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE At Subcontractors USA-TEXAS, we are committed to highlighting initiatives that create opportunities for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and diverse suppliers across Texas. Our mission is to share stories that demonstrate how access, innovation, and collaboration drive economic growth and strengthen communities.

In this issue, we spotlight Houston City College’s innovative approach to supplier diversity through its FlavorFest procurement event.

Rather than a traditional vendor expo, FlavorFest brought together small business owners, institutional decision-makers, and community stakeholders in an engaging environment focused on connection and opportunity.

Keith "MR. D-MARS" Davis, Sr. CERTIFIED:

HMSDC

ton City College demonstrated how institutions can move beyond conventional networking to build meaningful partnerships that support local economies.

“Opportunities don't happen.

You create them.”

Port Houston

Metro

City of Houston

Thank you for your continued support of Subcontractors USA-TEXAS.

HISD

Houston City College Small Business Development Program

CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd CREATIVE MANAGER Emma Aguiñaga

04 CONSTRUCTION

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER George Gustin

04 I DE Technologies Secures Bid for Largest Seawater Desalination Facility in Western Hemisphere

D'Angelo Florence SR. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Chivon Jones PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter DISTRIBUTION Carneal Addison CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Helen Callier

06 ENERGY 06 NRG Energy Announces Appointment of New Independent Director 08 OIL & GAS 08 Texas Oil and Gas bounces back amid global supply disruptions 12 PERMITS 12 Billions in Water Infrastructure Across Texas and What It Takes to Move It 14 TRANSPORTATION 14 Houston dedicates Sheila Jackson Lee Terminal E at IAH 16 How to Get Registered with TxDOT 18 TxDOT Projects Create Opportunities for Contractors

VBE

DBE

HHF CB/LB

OUR SERVICES

COVER STORY 10-11

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Eugenie Doualla

DIGITAL PRODUCTION

HUB

CONTENTS

PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr.

Shahzad Shahab

FlavorFest serves as a strong example of how public institutions can leverage their purchasing power to support entrepreneurs while strengthening the communities they serve. We applaud Houston City College for its leadership and continued commitment to transforming access into opportunity.

— Chris Grosser

FlavorFest reflects the understanding that successful procurement is about more than transactions—it is about relationships. By giving certified small businesses a platform to showcase their products, services, and capabilities, Hous-

BEHIND THE JOURNAL

WEB DESIGNER & DEVELOPER

Through its Small Business Development Program, Houston City College has directed millions in procurement spending to certified small businesses, helping drive business growth, job creation, and long-term economic development throughout the Houston region.

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4 | May 2026

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

CONSTRUCTION

IDE Technologies Secures Bid for Largest Seawater Desalination Facility in Western Hemisphere

By Subcontractors USA News Provider DE Technologies, a leading global provider of desalination and water treatment solutions, recently announced it was unanimously selected by the Nueces River Authority Board to develop the Harbor Island Desalination Facility.

The project, which is designed to deliver 100 million gallons of water per day to South Texas, will be the largest seawater desalination facility in the Western Hemisphere.

With drought outlooks underscoring the need for more resilient water planning and growing long-term water demand, the Harbor Island Desalination Facility will provide South Texas with a reliable, drought-resilient water source that supports communities, businesses, industry, and continued economic growth, while reducing dependence on increasingly stressed freshwater resources.

I

“Backed by IDE’s proven innovation in water technology, the Harbor Island Desalination Facility will solve for a critical water need in South Texas and help to diversify and strengthen the overall water supply,” said Lihy Teuerstein, CEO, IDE Water Assets.

“We are proud to partner with the Nueces River Authority and be part of developing a record-breaking facility and setting a standard for future projects in the US.” IDE will leverage its modular desalination design approach for the Harbor Island Desalination Facility, allowing for major plant

components to be manufactured and assembled in phases to reduce the timeframe from initial construction to water production.

Once in operation, the project will support municipal and industrial water use and play a critical role in future-proofing South Texas’ water supply.

“IDE was the clear, standout choice to lead the development of this significant water infrastructure opportunity,” said Eric Burnett, Nueces River Authority Board President.

“By partnering with IDE Technologies, the Nueces River Authority is advancing a globally proven solution designed to strengthen long-term water reliability and economic re-

silience for generations.”

This project is a clear example of the increasing need for seawater desalination in drought-stricken regions, highlighting IDE’s unique ability to resolve longterm water supply challenges in the Gulf Coast region and beyond.

For more information on IDE’s leading water technology solutions and large-scale infrastructure projects, visit https://ide-tech.com/.

ABOUT IDE TECHNOLOGIES IDE Technologies is a global leader in water treatment solutions with more than 60 years of experience delivering large-scale seawater desalination and industrial water treatment facilities worldwide. IDE has designed and operated some of the world’s largest and most advanced desalination plants serving municipal and industrial customers across the Americas, Israel, Europe, Asia, and beyond.

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6 | May 2026

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

ENERGY

NRG Energy Announces Appointment of New Independent Director

Vice President of Enron Industrial Markets (1999-2002). In his early career, Dr. Wright dedicated several years to Shell plc (1992-1999). He served in a series of engineering, process development, and manufacturing roles, supporting operations and driving performance improvements across the company’s chemical and energy businesses.

By Subcontractors USA News Provider nergy Industry Leader Brings Expertise Across Power, Gas, and Integrated Energy Solutions to the NRG Board of Directors

E

NRG Energy, Inc. recently announced that Glenn Wright has been appointed to its Board of Directors, effective May 26, 2026.

He holds a Ph.D. and MS in chemical engineering and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin, and a BS in chemical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

“Glenn has experience across power markets and customer energy solutions, along with a proven track record managing complex portfolios,” said Antonio Carrillo, NRG Board Chair. “His perspective will be valuable as NRG continues to focus on disciplined execution, long-term value creation, and serving customers. We are pleased to welcome him to the Board.”

Dr. Wright’s appointment brings the NRG Board to 11 members and further reinforces the Board’s role in providing strong governance and stewardship as the company advances its strategy.

About the New Director: Glenn Wright

Glenn Wright brings extensive leadership from Shell plc where he most recently served as Senior Vice President, Shell Energy Americas, and President and Chief Executive Officer of Shell New Energies, US (2020-2025). In this role, he led efforts to expand renewable generation and scale integrated energy

About NRG

solutions for customers across North and South America.

Earlier, Dr. Wright served as Vice President of Shell Energy Trading Americas, and President and Chief Executive Officer of Shell Energy North America (2016–2020), accountable for the power and gas wholesale trading business in North and South America as well as retail and commercial power operations and advanced customer-focused offerings.

Prior to these roles, he held several leadership positions within Shell ’s

downstream businesses, including General Manager of Power Trading, Shell Energy North America (2008–2016), General Manager of Business Development, Shell Lubricants (2007-2008), and General Manager of Portfolio Projects, Shell Oil Products, United States (2005-2007). His experience spans wholesale markets, portfolio management, and commercial optimization.

Dr. Wright also held leadership positions at Enterprise Business Development Inc. as Vice President of Business Development (2002-2005) and Enron Corporation as

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NRG is a leading provider of electricity, natural gas, and smart home solutions to eight million customers across North America.

The company operates a customer-first platform supported by a diversified supply strategy and the safe, reliable operation of approximately 25 GW of power generation.

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May 2026 | 7

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Fort Bend Independent School District

Small Business Enterprise Program The Fort Bend Independent School District’s (FBISD) Small Business Enterprise Program (“SBEP”) provides increased business opportunities for locally certified small businesses to participate in contracting and procurement at the District.

• The FBISD Board of Trustees adopted the Small Business Enterprise Program. In November, Fort Bend ISD voters approved the 2023 Bond, a $1.26 billion package that includes funding for the construction of new schools and classroom additions, safety and security enhancements, renovations to address maintenance and adequacy throughout the District, and transportation and technology needs.

• The SBEP is a goal-oriented program, requiring contractors to whom the District awards prime contracts for architectural design services, engineering design services or construction services valued at $50,000 or greater to use, at a minimum, “Good Faith Efforts” to utilize certified small businesses subcontractors, suppliers and consultants.

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8 | May 2026

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

OIL & GAS

Texas Oil and Gas bounces back amid global supply disruptions

recruitment include Loves, Energy Transfer, ExxonMobil, and Baker Hughes.

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Global Volatility & The Demand for American Energy Security

ebounding from a string of winter losses, the Texas upstream oil and natural gas sector posted positive job gains in March. However, total employment remains down by 3.5% year-over-year, according to the latest workforce data from the Texas Workforce Commission and the U.S. Department of Labor.

R

The hiring surge aligns perfectly with rising domestic production forecasts from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

The EIA projects U.S. crude production will average 13.6 million barrels per day (b/d) this year, climbing to 14.1 million b/d in 2027, alongside steady increases in natural gas output.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS: RECOVERY AND EXPANSION Upstream employment, which includes extraction and specific mining activities but excludes refining, petrochemicals, and pipelines, grew by 1,800 jobs monthover-month. This brings the state's total upstream workforce to 193,300. While a welcome recovery, it still sits below the 200,000+ benchmark seen this time last year, representing a year-over-year loss of 7,100 jobs.

An analysis by the Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) broke down the March gains: • E xtraction Activities: Added 600 jobs, bringing the total to 64,500.

• Support Activities: Added 1,200 jobs, bringing the total to 128,800.

Despite the annual dip, industry leaders remain highly optimistic. Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA) President Todd Staples

noted that current employment figures are significantly higher than historical norms.

From 1998 through 2006, Texas upstream employment averaged just 142,000 jobs, staying well below the pandemic-era low of 157,000.

"As past cycles demonstrate, periods of decline followed by recovery are a recurring feature of the industry," Staples said, pointing to recent corporate announcements regarding production expansion.

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By comparison, Pennsylvania held the secondhighest number of unique job postings, with California, Ohio, and Illinois lagging far behind, each reporting fewer than 3,000 open positions.

Within the Lone Star State, hiring remains concentrated in Houston, Midland, Odessa, and Dallas. The companies actively driving

"Amid continued global market volatility and international supply disruptions, Texas oil and gas operators remain steadfast in delivering reliable, dependable energy to domestic and international markets," said TIPRO President Ed Longanecker.

"Texas producers are providing the stable energy supply that families, businesses and allies depend on, reinforcing the importance of American energy security at a critical time."

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10 | May 2026

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

FlavorFest Turns Procurement Into Opportunity for Houston’s Small Businesses

Houston City College's FlavorFest brought together vendors and procurement professionals to strengthen relationships, share opportunities, and support pathways for small and local businesses to secure institutional contracts and build long-term partnerships.

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

F

or years, procurement expos often followed a familiar formula: Booths, brochures and business cards exchanged in crowded rooms where vendors hoped to make the right connection.

But this year, Houston City College decided to take a different approach.

Instead of another traditional vendor showcase, HCC’s Small Business Development Program transformed its annual Procurement Month event into “FlavorFest,” an interactive food-focused experience designed to spotlight the college’s Small Business Enterprise-certified catering vendors.

The March 3rd event brought together approximately 230 attendees and 25 catering exhibitors in a setting that emphasized relationship-building, real-time engagement, and economic opportunity.

Hosted at HCC’s Administration Building, FlavorFest combined live food tastings, networking opportunities and culinary demonstrations from HCC Culinary Arts students to create what organizers described as a more meaningful way for vendors and institutional decision-makers to connect.

EXPERIENCE THAT BUILDS CONNECTIONS

DELIVERING IMPACT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

Unlike virtual expos or standard networking events, FlavorFest relied heavily on face-to-face interaction.

Vendors weren’t simply handing out flyers or discussing services. They were actively showcasing their food, presentation skills, and professionalism through onsite tastings that allowed attendees to experience the businesses firsthand.

Organizers said the experiential format created organic conversations between vendors and decision-makers in ways that traditional expos often fail to achieve.

According to HCC officials, the Small Business Development Program exceeded its annual goal in fiscal year 2025, achieving 38% spending with SBEs and directing more than $30 million in procurement dollars to certified local small businesses.

The program also received six awards during FY25 for its supplier diversity efforts.

“FlavorFest reflects HCC’s commitment to turning access into opportunity, creating real pathways for small businesses to connect, compete, and grow within our procurement ecosystem,” organizers said.

Face-to-face engagement creates a level of connection, trust, and immediacy that virtual or hybrid formats often cannot replicate.

- HCC ORGANIZERS

CREATING PATHWAYS TO CONTRACTS For many vendors, that type of direct access is invaluable.

“These engagements often serve as the first touchpoint, with follow-up support from the Small Business Development Program helping vendors navigate onboarding, compliance, and contracting processes,” organizers said.

Within the college’s Small Business Enterprise Job Order Contracting program, certified construction and trade contractors have gained access to project-based procurement opportunities that helped expand their businesses while supporting campus infrastructure needs.

Similar targeted programs have been created for office supplies, promotional products, staffing services and IT-related goods and services.

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May 2026 | 11

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

A food-focused experience that brought together vendors, decision-makers and opportunities.

230

Attendees

SUPPORTING HOUSTON'S ECONOMIC IMPACT

LOOKING AHEAD AND HOW TO SUCCEED

FlavorFest also highlighted the broader economic ripple effect that procurement inclusion can create within Houston’s business ecosystem.

“When small businesses secure contracts and grow, they are better able to hire locally, invest back in their operations and contribute to the broader Houston economy,” organizers explained.

“This creates a multiplier effect, where increased institutional spending with small businesses supports job creation, workforce development, and long-term economic stability.”

The forum brought together multiple internal HCC departments, including Procurement Operations and the Culinary Arts Program, alongside local vendors and institutional stakeholders. Organizers said collaboration with city, county, and state agencies further expands opportunities for attendees by exposing vendors to a wider range of public-sector procurement pipelines.

For businesses attending future HCC forums, organizers emphasized preparation, engagement and consistency.

Come prepared, come engaged, and come ready to demonstrate your value.

Success does not end when the expo closes.

Maintain updated vendor profiles and remain active on procurement platforms.

The vendors who benefit most are those who take full advantage of experience-building relationships, ask the right questions and present their services in a way that aligns with HCC’s needs.

By turning access into real opportunity, HCC continues to lead the way in creating a more inclusive and thriving business ecosystem.

25

catering Exhibitions

march 3

hcc administration building

“This year’s Procurement Month Expo, ‘FlavorFest,’ builds upon prior ‘Access to HCC’ events by shifting from a traditional informational expo to a more immersive, experience-driven approach,” organizers said in responses provided to The Subcontractor’s Journal.

Procurement staff, faculty, end users, and institutional stakeholders were able to directly interact with vendors while evaluating service quality and operational readiness in real time.

“Face-to-face engagement creates a level of connection, trust, and immediacy that virtual or hybrid formats often cannot replicate,” organizers said. “Vendors can make lasting impressions, while decision-makers gain a clearer understanding of vendor capabilities beyond written proposals.”

The event also reinforced the growing importance of supplier diversity initiatives across public institutions. By intentionally highlighting SBEcertified caterers and connecting them directly to procurement channels, HCC positioned “FlavorFest”as both an economic development initiative and a business readiness platform.

Officials noted that HCC’s outreach efforts have already produced measurable success stories.

“Come prepared, come engaged, and come ready to demonstrate your value,” organizers advised. “The vendors who benefit most are those who take full advantage of experience-building relationships, asking the right questions and presenting their services in a way that aligns with HCC’s needs.”

Officials stressed that success does not end when the expo closes. Maintaining updated vendor profiles and remaining active on procurement platforms are essential steps for companies hoping to convert introductions into contracts.

Ultimately, FlavorFest demonstrated how procurement expos can evolve from transactional networking events into engines for economic inclusion and sustainable growth.

“Expos like FlavorFest’ are where opportunity becomes action, connecting small businesses directly with decision-makers and driving real economic growth within our community,” organizers said.

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12 | May 2026

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

PERMITS

Billions in Water Infrastructure Across Texas and What It Takes to Move It

By Helen Callier Contributing Writer recently attended the Texas Water Conference is in San Antonio, Texas. This was a joint annual conference between the Water Environment Association of Texas and the Texas Section American Water Works Association. This conference hosted a plethora of industry professionals from all areas including public owners, utilities, engineers, contractors, regulators, manufacturers, and service providers to discuss water challengers, share ideas and review how projects can be advanced across the state.

I

And while I know that there are billions of dollars in water and wastewater infrastructure projects moving across Texas right now. From the City of Houston to the Brazos River Authority and other regional agencies, the scale of work is significant to keep up with growth demands which I have written about on several occasions.

With the pressures from key drivers, capturing the source of funding is a feat and then proceeding with the technical design is another important aspect that public owners deal with to deliver water infrastructure solutions.

Water projects do not make it through the chute by funding and design alone, regulatory approval is the critical milestone that makes or hinders are project from delivering on time and in budget.

Here’s what I know for sure is that when it comes to regulatory approvals for water infrastructure projects.

Approvals are not singular…meaning one entity and done!

On local municipal and county water and wastewater projects, you are often working across multiple regulatory frameworks at the same time.

At the federal level, environmental review under NEPA may be required depending on funding and project scope. Coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can introduce additional considerations where jurisdictional waters or wetlands are involved. And at the state level, TCEQ governs permitting pathways including TPDES permits, amendments, and renewals.

Again, depending on the scope, at the local level, additional approvals and coordination must align with both state and federal processes.

And the key takeaway is that each of these regulatory actions operate on its own timeline and risks.

Many projects may be technically ready but are not fully aligned with regulatory agencies. And this misalignment often creates project delays and adds to owners’ frustrations.

Knowing how reviews unfold and the strategies to sequence across multiple agencies is vital for major projects to start construction on time, hit key milestones dates and to be delivered on time when promised to the community.

To Summarize On large infrastructure projects, you are not just submitting permits. You are managing a regulatory compliance process across multiple agencies, timelines, and disciplines. This takes skill and the right knowledge to move expeditiously through multiple agencies’ staff, processes and systems.

If you are navigating multiple agencies and approvals on a water or wastewater project, it may be worth evaluating how those efforts are aligned early.

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May 2026 | 13

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

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14 | May 2026

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HOUSTON DEDICATES SHEILA JACKSON LEE TERMINAL E AT IAH “Thank you to the City of Houston and our beloved community for acknowledging Sheila Jackson Lee by naming Terminal E in her honor,” the Jackson Lee family said in a statement. “Additional thanks to the Department of Homeland Security and the Harris County Congressional Delegation.

We are thrilled that the gateway to the world and our great city reflects her leadership and legacy. Houston is the city that allowed Congresswoman Jackson Lee to soar to heights we could not have imagined. This day reflects not just what she meant to us, but what she means to each of you as a central figure in our community. It is our wish that this continues to inspire visitors for years to come.”

By Subcontractors USA News Provider n an historic moment for the City of Houston, Mayor John Whitmire and invited guests joined Houston Airports, and the family of the late U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee gathered Monday to officially dedicate the Sheila Jackson Lee Terminal E at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

I

The dedication permanently connects Jackson Lee’s legacy to one of the nation’s busiest international airports, where roughly 35,000 international passengers travel through Terminal E each day.

Jackson Lee represented Texas’ 18th Congressional District for more than three decades, a district that includes IAH. Throughout her time in Congress, she advocated for aviation security, federal transportation investment and infrastructure improvements that helped strengthen Houston’s airports and international reach.

According to the City Council resolution approving the renaming, Jackson Lee helped secure more than $125 million for Houston’s airports during her tenure in Congress.

Photos courtesy of Fly2Houston.com said Houston Mayor John Whitmire. “For decades, she fought for the neighborhoods, families and future of Houston, and there could not be a more fitting tribute than having her name welcome millions of travelers from around the world to this great city.”

“Terminal E is where Houston welcomes the world,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “Millions of travelers from around the world will now encounter the story of Sheila Jackson Lee

“Sheila Jackson Lee dedicated her life to the people of Houston, and today our city honors a legacy built on public service, opportunity and an unwavering belief in this community,”

here at one of America’s great international gateways. There could not be a more fitting tribute to a public servant who dedicated her life to connection, opportunity and the people of Houston.”

Terminal E became fully operational in April following the relocation of foreign flag air carriers from Terminal D, marking the completion of the construction project.

During the ceremony, the family unveiled a 500-pound memorial plaque crafted from cast bronze and black granite, featuring a bas-relief portrait of the late congresswoman.

In the coming weeks, the plaque will be permanently installed inside Terminal E’s international concourse beyond the TSA security checkpoint.

Jackson Lee died July 19, 2024, at the age of 74. Houston City Council unanimously approved the renaming of Terminal E on April 16, 2025.

Source: Fly2Houston.com

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16 | May 2026

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

How to Get Registered with TxDOT

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider or contractors looking to tap into Texas’ booming infrastructure market, working with the Texas Department of Transportation can be a game changer.

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But before you can bid on projects or secure subcontracting work, you have to get in the system—and that means meeting TxDOT’s requirements for registration and prequalification.

The process may seem complex at first, but industry experts say it’s manageable with the right preparation.

Getting registered with TxDOT is about more than paperwork—it’s about proving you’re ready to perform.

Once you’re in, it opens doors.

Here’s how to get started.

Step 1: Set Up Your Business Foundation

Before applying with TxDOT, make sure your business is fully established and compliant.

You’ll need: • A registered business entity (LLC, corporation, etc.)

• A valid EIN (Employer Identification Number) • A DUNS number (for federal and state contracting) • A business bank account Pro tip: Make sure your business name and information are consistent across all documents. Mismatches can delay approval.

Step 2: Register with the State of Texas Vendor System

To do business with any state agency, including TxDOT, you must be listed in the Centralized Master Bidders List (CMBL).

This allows agencies and prime contractors to find your company when sourcing vendors.

Why it matters: Even subcontractors benefit from visibility in the system—prime contractors often search the database when assembling teams.

Step 3: Determine If You Need Prequalification

Not every contractor needs full prequalification—but if you plan to bid directly on TxDOT projects, you will.

Prequalification evaluates your: • Financial stability

Step 4: Complete the TxDOT Prequalification Application

The prequalification process requires detailed documentation.

Be prepared to submit: • Financial statements (reviewed or audited, depending on project size) • A list of completed projects • Equipment inventory • Safety record and EMR (Experience Modification Rate) • References What TxDOT is looking for: Proof that you can handle the size and scope of the projects you’re pursuing.

Step 5: Meet Insurance and Bonding Requirements TxDOT projects often require: • General liability insurance

• Equipment capacity Subcontractors may not always need prequalification, but it significantly boosts credibility and opportunities.

TxDOT posts projects through its online letting system, where contractors can: • View upcoming bids • Download project plans • Submit proposals Pro tip: Attend pre-bid meetings. These are critical for networking and understanding project expectations.

Step 8: Build Relationships with Prime Contractors

For many businesses, especially smaller firms, subcontracting is the fastest way to break into TxDOT work.

Focus on: • Introducing your company to established primes • Demonstrating reliability and capacity

• Performance and payment bonds

• Following up consistently

If you don’t already have bonding capacity, now is the time to build that relationship with a surety provider.

Step 6: Get Certified (Optional—but Powerful) Programs to consider:

• Past performance

Once registered and prequalified, the next step is understanding how to find and pursue opportunities.

• Workers’ compensation (if applicable)

If you’re a minority-, woman-, or disadvantaged-owned business, certification can open additional doors.

• Work experience

Step 7: Learn the Bidding System

• Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) • Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)

Common Mistakes to Avoid • Submitting incomplete applications • Underestimating financial requirements • Ignoring safety documentation Waiting until the last minute to prepare Each of these can delay approval—or cost you opportunities.

These certifications can increase your chances of being selected for subcontracting roles on TxDOT-funded projects.

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Source: TxDOT

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18 | May 2026

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

TxDOT Projects Create Opportunities for Contractors

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

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A Historic Wave of Infrastructure Investment

cross Texas, orange barrels and heavy machinery have become a familiar sight—and for contractors, that’s a sign of something bigger than traffic delays. It’s a signal of opportunity.

Texas continues to experience rapid population growth, placing increased pressure on roads, bridges and transit systems. In response, TxDOT has committed billions toward improving statewide mobility and safety.

The Texas Department of Transportation is overseeing one of the most ambitious infrastructure buildouts in the country, fueled by population growth, federal funding and long-term mobility needs. From highway expansions to bridge replacements and flood mitigation projects, TxDOT’s pipeline is creating steady work for contractors and subcontractors across the state.

Major metro areas like Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin are seeing large-scale projects designed to reduce congestion, improve freight movement and strengthen infrastructure resilience.

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But tapping into those opportunities requires more than showing up—it demands strategy, relationships and readiness.

For contractors, this translates into: • Long-term project pipelines • Increased demand for skilled labor • Expanded subcontracting opportunities

Where the Opportunities Are

TxDOT projects span a wide range of construction needs, creating entry points for contractors of all sizes.

1. Highway Expansion and Reconstruction

The Subcontractor Advantage

Large TxDOT projects often involve prime contractors who rely heavily on subcontractors to complete the work.

That creates significant opportunities for small and midsized businesses.

TxDOT also has programs designed to increase participation from historically underutilized businesses (HUBs), opening doors for minority- and women-owned firms.

Subcontracting is where many companies get their start with TxDOT, experts say. It’s a chance to build experience, relationships and a track record.

Position Your Business for Success While opportunities are abundant, competition is strong.

Contractors looking to break into TxDOT projects should focus on preparation and positioning.

Get Prequalified

2. Bridge and Overpass Projects

TxDOT requires contractors to meet specific financial, technical and safety standards before bidding on projects.

Aging infrastructure across Texas has made bridge repair and replacement a priority.

From widening major corridors to rebuilding aging interchanges, roadway construction remains a core focus.

Understand the Bid Process

These projects often require:

Opportunities include: • Concrete and asphalt work • Drainage systems

• Structural steel work

Successful bidders know how to navigate TxDOT’s procurement system, from proposal submissions to compliance requirements.

• Foundation and piling services • Inspection and specialty engineering support

• Striping and signage

Build Relationships

• Traffic control services

3. Flood Control and Drainage Improvements

In regions like Houston and the Gulf Coast, flood mitigation is a critical component of infrastructure planning.

Contractors are needed for:

4. Maintenance and Smaller Contracts

Networking with prime contractors, attending pre-bid meetings and staying visible in the industry can open doors to subcontracting roles.

Not every opportunity is a mega project. TxDOT also awards smaller contracts for routine maintenance, which can be ideal entry points for emerging firms.

These include:

• Stormwater systems

• Road repairs

• Detention ponds

• Landscaping

• Erosion control

• Guardrail installation • Lighting upgrades

Prioritize Compliance and Safety TxDOT projects come with strict guidelines.

Contractors who demonstrate reliability, safety and adherence to regulations are more likely to secure repeat work.

Challenges to Watch

While the opportunities are significant, contractors must also navigate: • Labor shortages • Rising material costs • Tight project timelines • Regulatory requirements Those who can manage these challenges effectively will be best positioned to succeed.

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