On Thursday, December 11, 2025, 12:00 PM - 6:30 PM, join TXAPA in Buda, TX, for our Ideas That Lead & Inspire and Christmas Party! The National Women of Asphalt tagline is “Lead and Inspire.” Women of Asphalt Texas presents industry-leading ideas from inspiring men and women at our fourth annual Holiday season event.
wHY Attend?
This event isn’t just for Women of Asphalt members—TXAPA members and industry professionals are encouraged to attend any or all parts of the day. Come for the networking, professional insights, or just the holiday fun! Whether you join us for the luncheon, the education program, or the cocktail party, we promise you’ll leave with new connections, valuable takeaways, and festive memories.
Holiday Luncheon & Women of Asphalt Year in Review
12:00 PM – 12:45 PM
Join us for a festive and hearty holiday lunch with your fellow TXAPA members and show support for your Women of Asphalt Texas Branch. This jointly hosted annual event, now in its third year, celebrates the camaraderie and excellence we bring to our work in this industry!
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
From Change to Growth – My Journey Through Career Transitions
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Bahareh Bathaei - Texas Department of Transportation
Bahareh shares her journey of professional growth, exploring how leadership develops through experience rather than titles. She’ll discuss intentional career choices, overcoming hurdles, and offer practical insights attendees can apply immediately to their own development.
1:30 PM – 1:45 PM
Break #1
1:30 PM – 1:45 PM
1:45 PM – 2:45 PM
Ideas That Lead & Inspire: Mentorship Panel Discussion
1:45 PM – 2:45 PM
Emma Catron - Vulcan Materials, Co. Isabella Gorraiz - Texas Materials East Texas Area Jennifer Long - CSA Materials, Inc. Nathaly Gonzalez - DPW U.S. Army Jayci Stewart - Kimley-Horn
This year’s panel features four young women at early stages of their careers, each bringing a fresh, candid perspective on professional growth and mentorship. As they reflect on the mentorship they’ve received, their stories highlight the power of guidance, encouragement, and shared experience in shaping the next generation of leaders. This engaging discussion explores how mentorship influences confidence, growth, and self-discovery—and offers reflections on what it means to be your best self as a developing professional.
2:45 PM – 3:00 PM
Break #2
2:45 PM – 3:00 PM
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Strong Foundations: Mental Health & Holiday Wellness for Women and Men in Construction
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Laura Slocum - Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute
Construction is one of the most demanding and at-risk industries for mental health challenges. The job is already stressful; the holidays only crank up the pressure. But while no one questions getting help for a broken leg, reaching out for mental health support can feel like breaking the unspoken rules of toughness. This session cuts through that stigma and reframes mental health as a critical part of keeping workers safe. In this session, you will learn the essentials of recognizing a mental health crisis: key signs, suicide awareness, and significant risk factors. You’ll learn practical ways to ask for help, support coworkers and loved ones, and engage in difficult conversations with confidence. We’ll wrap with workplace strategies that strengthen a culture of wellbeing and a clear guide to essential resources—988, Local Mental Health Authority crisis services, private providers, and 911—and when to use each.
4:00 PM – 6:30 PM
TXAPA Holiday Party: Cocktails and Hors d'oeuvres
4:00 PM – 6:30 PM
A networking reception with all the trimmings. Celebrate the holidays with libations and hors d’oeuvres.All are welcome!
