Tri-County History
Tri-County History
About the Texas Tri-County Chamber of Commerce
The Texas Tri-County Chamber of Commerce began in 1975 as the Randolph Metrocom Chamber, serving the growing communities around Randolph Air Force Base. As the region expanded, so did our role. In 2014, the Chamber adopted the name Texas Tri-County Chamber, representing businesses across Bexar, Guadalupe, and Comal counties.
Today, the Chamber serves as a regional hub for business support, education, and connection, working closely with the cities of Universal City, Live Oak, Garden Ridge, Cibolo, Schertz, and Selma. Our mission is simple:
support local businesses, strengthen community partnerships, and create real opportunities for economic growth.
We are a working Chamber, committed to providing real value and measurable impact.
What Makes Us Different
A Focus on Real Value
We focus on programs that directly support business growth—education, visibility, networking, and access to decision-makers. Every initiative is designed to help businesses thrive in a competitive and fast-growing region.
Deep City Partnerships
Through our City Advisor & City Representative system, the Chamber maintains strong working relationships with all six partner cities. This ensures:
Better connections between members and city leadership
Up-to-date information on development, ordinances, and opportunities
Strong support for businesses looking to expand or relocate
Member Support That Matters
We offer hands-on guidance, warm welcomes, and ongoing support through:
Ribbon cuttings
Diplomat Team outreach
Committees and City Advisors & Reps
Business introductions
Professional development
Direct communication with the Chamber team
Social Media & Visibility
With more than 6,000 followers across all platforms, our social media outreach is one of the most effective in the region. We highlight:
Member businesses
Ribbon cuttings
Events and trainings
Community successes
Public safety and city updates
Local resources and opportunities
Every post is created to bring visibility to members and support the growth of local business.
Community Outreach
We stay actively engaged across the Tri-County area through:
Attendance at city council meetings, EDC meetings, and community events
Support for nonprofits, military units, and school districts
Leadership presence at local festivals, dedications, and business openings
Offering our Pat Booker headquarters for meetings, classes, and community gatherings
This consistent presence strengthens relationships and keeps our Chamber connected to the needs of the region.
Programs That Work
TriCo University
Monthly education covering marketing, leadership, finance, communication, technology, and business development.
TriCo Challenge
A point-based engagement program that rewards involvement and recognizes businesses, diplomats, and city partners.
Diplomat Team
A frontline group supporting ribbon cuttings, business outreach, and Chamber presence at events.
Networking & Signature Events
Monthly luncheons
Morning Mingles
Quarterly mixers
Taste of TriCo (TBD)
TriCo Annual Golf Tournament (April)
Elected Officials Reception (Nov)
These events connect businesses to city leaders, decision-makers, and each other.
Leadership Timeline – Honoring Those Who Served
1980s
Paul Davis – President (1985–1986)
William Chadwick – President (mid-1980s)
Rhoda Philby – President (late 1980s–1990)
1990s
Byron Bexley – Board Chair (1990)
2000s
Gordon Dunkley – Executive Director (early 2000s)
Frances Rushing – Executive Director (2002–2005)
Pat O’Brien – Board Chair (mid-2000s)
2010–2014
Elsa Cranford – Board Chair (2011)
Kathi Ashworth – Board Chair (2012)
Scott Wayman – Chair-Elect (2012)
Rose Ryan – Executive Director (2012–2013)
Brad Bailey – Executive Director (2013)
Dr. Brian Woywood – Board Chair (2013–2014)
2015–2020
Leonard John – Board Chair (2015)
Kelly Smith – Board Chair (2016)
Amie Reynolds – Board Chair (2017)
Mindy Paxton – Executive Director (2018-2024)
Melissa Carrillo - Past Chair
Kevin Hadas – Interim Executive Director (transition period)
2021–2024
Kevin Hadas – Interim Executive Director (Nov–Dec 2024)
2025–Present
Becki Babcock – President / Executive Director (April 2025–Present)
Looking Ahead
The Texas Tri-County Chamber continues to grow with new programs, stronger partnerships, and a member-first approach. Our commitment remains the same as it was in 1975:
support the businesses who support our community.