Texas Association of Builders Celebrates Leadership Installation
AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Association of Builders (TAB) recently honored its new leadership and several prestigious award recipients at a remarkable dinner event held at the Hyatt Regency Austin. This occasion marked the installation of the 2026 president and the induction of noteworthy individuals into the Texas Housing Hall of Honor.
Introducing the New Leadership Team
Chris Lyons, the president of HOME by Lyons based in Amarillo, took the helm as TAB's 79th president. He will lead TAB alongside an energized Board of Directors and senior officers dedicated to upholding the association’s mission and advocating for the homebuilding industry.
Meet the Senior Officers for 2026
The 2026 TAB leadership includes:
- First Vice President: Justin Webb from Altura Homes – Rockwall
- Vice President/Secretary: Sam Mezayek of Mezayek Building & Development – Tyler
- Treasurer: Justin MacDonald, MacDonald Companies Inc. – Kerrville
- Immediate Past President: Brett Martin, Tilson Custom Home Builders – Houston
Texas Housing Hall of Honor Inductees
During the event, the Texas Housing Hall of Honor welcomed three distinguished individuals known for their significant contributions to the Texas housing sector:
- Tommy Ford from Tommy Ford Construction | Dallas Builders Association (in memoriam)
- Delbert McDougal from McDougal Companies | West Texas Builders Association (in memoriam)
- Robert Wood from West Texas Land Guys | West Texas Builders Association
Announcing the "Of the Year" Award Winners
The evening also highlighted the skill and dedication within the Texas homebuilding community through nine "Of the Year" Awards:
- Excellence Under 45: Zach Gavos, Keepsake Custom Homes – Houston
- Excellence Under 45: Austin McKnight, Southern Creek Homes – Bryan/College Station
- Association Accomplishment of the Year: Temple Area Builders Association
- Associate of the Year: Atmos Energy
- Developer of the Year: Becky Ullman, Lennar Homes/Friendswood Development Company – Houston
- Philanthropist of the Year: Metro East Division of the Dallas Builders Association
- J.B. Sandlin Builder of the Year: Chad Decker, Decker Custom Homes – San Angelo
- Ted Schlossman Lifetime Achievement Award: Beverly Koehn, Beverly Koehn & Associates – San Antonio
- Ted Schlossman Lifetime Achievement Award: Michael Moore, Ironstone Development – San Antonio
Recognizing Exceptional Service
During the final meeting of the 2025 Board of Directors, TAB acknowledged several members for their extraordinary leadership through the Presidential Distinguished Service Awards.
The 2025 honorees include Ray Adauto, Kristal Casey, Mike Dishberger, Colby Duke, Bill Ellison, Zach Gavos, Mindy Hamilton, Tyler Hood, Ryan and Meredith Joyce, Jonathan Killebrew, David Lehde, Sam Mezayek, Frank Murphy, James Rodriguez, James Rudnicki, Don Shelton, Hank Smith, Cara Tackett, and Elizabeth York.
About the Texas Association of Builders
The Texas Association of Builders (TAB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the homebuilding, remodeling, and land development communities throughout Texas. Established in 1946, TAB is an affiliate of the National Association of Home Builders, supporting nearly 10,000 members across the state and generating significant economic impact through job creation and housing development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Texas Association of Builders?
The Texas Association of Builders is a nonprofit serving homebuilders, remodelers, and land developers across Texas, supporting nearly 10,000 members.
Who was installed as the 2026 president of TAB?
Chris Lyons, the president of HOME by Lyons, was sworn in as the 2026 president of TAB.
What awards were presented at the dinner event?
Nine "Of the Year" awards recognizing excellence in homebuilding were presented during the event.
Who were the Hall of Honor inductees?
The 2025 Texas Housing Hall of Honor inductees included Tommy Ford, Delbert McDougal, and Robert Wood.
What is the goal of TAB?
The goal of the Texas Association of Builders is to advocate for the homebuilding industry and uphold the standards of home construction and development in Texas.