The San Marcos Manufacturers' Association (SMMA) was formed in 1981 to provide a forum for local industry to communicate common needs, problems and objectives.SMMA is active in the community as well as at the state level, and works closely with Texas State University-San Marcos, San Marcos CISD, Hays ISD, the City of San Marcos, the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce, Texas Workforce Centers, Gary Job Corps, CTMC, Texas Association of Business and Chambers of Commerce, Texas Alliance of Manufacturers Association, Economic Development San Marcos, Small Business Council, and state representatives. Many of these organizations are represented in SMMA as associate members.
The SMMA has maintained close ties with all local educational institutions for many years through programs such as sponsorships of scholarships. Seven annual scholarships are provided by SMMA. Graduates of Gary Job Corps and the San Marcos High School receive SMMA scholarships. SMMA also funds two scholarships for Texas State University - one for the McCoy's College of Business Administration, one for the Department of Technology and one SMMA Member Employee Scholarship.
The membership is a very cohesive group that provides unity and support on key issues of common interest and concern. One prime example of the community support provided by the SMMA is found in United Way contributions. Since 1983 many of the SMMA member companies have been among the top contributors to the annual United Way of Hays County. The collective membership represents the top contributing association in Hays County.
The membership companies range in employee size from 26 to over 535, with a total employment of around 2,569. Some of the top taxpayers in Hays County are members of the SMMA.
Even though member companies represent diverse industries, the SMMA is a united "force." Many SMMA members serve on the boards of various community and civic organizations, and are committed to the betterment of San Marcos and Hays County. The SMMA actively supports Economic Development for San Marcos, and works as a team to improve the working conditions, environment and quality of life for new and existing industries.
Local and prospective manufacturers are welcome to contact the SMMA about potential membership in the association by contacting the presiding SMMA President (any SMMA officer)?
CenturyLink -- is a leading provider of high quality voice, broadband and video services over its advanced communications networks to consumers and businesses in 33 states.
CFAN -- Manufacturers high precision parts with advanced composite for the aerospace industry.
Associate Members: Associate members are non-voting members and represent allied organizations in the community. The primary purpose of an Associate member is to provide a closer communication link and build working relationships with allied organizations in the community.
- San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce
- Economic Development of San Marcos
- Texas State Dept. of Technology
- McCoy College of Business
- Gary Job Corps Community
- Central Texas Medical Center
- City Manager
- Hays CISD
- San Marcos CISD
Honorary Members: Individuals that have provided a significant contribution to the SMMA or who has made a significant contribution to business or industry.
Scholarship Committee: (John Navarrette)
This committee coordinates all activities related to SMMA scholarships, including student evaluation (if necessary), student selection, scholarship criteria review and attending scholarship award ceremonies. The committee’s duty is to insure that SMMA funds are awarded to deserving students in the schools selected by the SMMA. The committee can recommend new scholarships as funds permit.
Program Committee: (Danny Gonzales)
This committee recommends monthly programs to the membership. On an annual basis the committee recommends a list of potential programs to the membership, preferably at the January business meeting. The committee, in conjunction with the host should make arrangements for the guest speaker(s). Annual programs are provided by the San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District, the Department of Technology at TXState and the School of Business. These institutions, at their option, can also serve as host when they present programs.
Training Committee: (Ben Wehman & Dr. Darrell Piersol)
This committee recommends joint training efforts for the membership. Once a training program has been approved, this committee works to coordinate the class. From time to time the committee will survey the membership to determine common training needs. Typically, courses should have a broad appeal in order for as many members as possible be able to take advantage.
Public Relations: (Linda Porterfield)
This committee will provide PR on various SMMA activities to local newspapers, radios, etc. When required the committee will write news releases, photographs, information, etc. on SMMA activities, programs, plans, etc.
Governmental Affairs: (Bruce Tift)
This committee will provide a conduit to and from local, state and federal government agencies in order to provide our member companies a stronger voice.
Career Day: (Lisa Searle)
This committee will schedule and organize the annual SMMA career day activities.
Website: (Paul E. Neilson)
To periodic update the information provided on the SMMA website in conjunction with the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce and San Marcos Economic Development.
Develop a process to ensure compliance with generally accepted governance procedures
Improve SMMA committee involvement through more frequent communication, planning and meeting reports
Rename Training Seminar Committee the Fund Raiser Committee, expand its scope to include additional fund raisers, and recruit new committee members.
Maintain existing membership and increase membership by 1
Increase visibility in community through additional press releases and community involvement (i.e. Project Graduation and Career Day at San Marcos High School)
Include 2 plant tours in the program schedule
Include at least 2 Lunch & Learns in the program schedule
One Executive Officer to attend the City Countil Meeting or any other city committee meeting when agendas warrant
Continue affiliation with TAMA, NBMA, TAB, and TAM and Leadership San Marcos
Improve SMMA Records Retention and Centralization by compiling records from previous years and scanning them in a format for web-based storage and access.
