AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association (TACA), a state trade association for the aggregate, concrete, cement, and associated industries, announces that Zak Covar has joined the association as its new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Covar comes to TACA with more than 15 years of experience in both the legislative and executive branches of government, having served as an appointed Commissioner to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) under two governors, Rick Perry and Greg Abbott.

“TACA is enormously excited to welcome Zak Covar as our new President and CEO,” TACA Chairman Juan Castillo said. “The level of experience and understanding he brings to this role is of great benefit not only to our members, but also to the residents and businesses of Texas, as we address the challenges that come with an enormous growth in infrastructure.”

Before being appointed as TCEQ Commissioner, Covar served as its Executive Director, after working through the ranks of executive management. He earned his environmental and budgetary credentials while working as the Lead Environmental and Natural Resources Policy and Budget Advisor to Gov. Perry from 2005 through 2007.

He began his legislative and political acumen as Legislative Director, Chief of Staff, and ultimately Chief Committee Clerk for then Chairman Dennis Bonnen and the Texas House Committee on Environmental Regulation. In addition to his policy, budget, executive management, and oversight duties with the state of Texas, he spent more than five years in senior management roles in the midstream oil and gas sector, after which he became a small business owner.

“I am very excited to lead this great association,” Covar said. “TACA is playing a critical role in advancing the outreach, education, and advocacy for the infrastructure that makes Texas such a success story. Its member companies strive every day to ensure that the Lone Star State remains a beacon for safe, sustainable, and economic opportunity.”