Building Legacy and Better Roads: Blackledge’s Expansion Story in Fairfield, Texas

In this episode of Gone to Texas, hosts Brit Blacklidge and "Super" Dave Quinn sit down with Brit Blacklidge, President of Blacklidge, a fourth-generation family-owned asphalt materials company. Brit shares the history of the company, how he stepped into a leadership role at a young age, and the challenges and rewards of running a family business. He speaks candidly about the realities of work-life balance, the importance of assembling a strong team, and how faith and resilience are crucial to his business journey.

The conversation shifts to Blackledge’s expansion into Texas, including why they chose Fairfield as their newest location. Brit breaks down the process of relocating a business to Texas, his experience partnering with the Fairfield Economic Development Corporation, and the practical challenges such as workforce and housing shortages. The episode also touches on what Always the Better Road means for Blackledge, emphasizing a commitment to quality and reliability in their products and workplace culture. Brit closes with advice for business owners considering Texas, highlighting the state’s business-friendly attitude and the supportive community he’s found in Fairfield.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The family history and background of Blackledge
• Challenges and rewards of running a family business
• The realities of work-life balance for business owners
• Why Blackledge expanded to Texas and why they chose Fairfield
• Navigating local partnerships and economic development support
• Overcoming practical challenges like workforce and housing shortages
• Company values: quality, reliability, and the meaning of "Always the Better Road"
• The importance of company culture and employee empowerment
• The Texas business environment and support for new businesses
• Recommendations for policymakers on workforce and trade education
• Local insights and what makes Fairfield stand out

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