McAllen Chamber Announces 2024 Man of the Year

McAllen Chamber of Commerce honors Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E. and Natasha A. Del Barrio as Man & Woman of the Year.

2024 Man of the Year – Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E.

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E., has been named Man of the Year in recognition of his exceptional leadership and dedication to the City of McAllen. With over 35 years of public service, Rodriguez holds an extensive career that spans key leadership positions throughout the State of Texas. Since March 2014, Rodriguez has played a pivotal role in guiding the city’s growth and development.

“Having worked with Roy for many years, I know the positive results that the City [McAllen] and our Chamber of Commerce have experienced because of Roy,” said Jim Darling, McAllen Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Board. “Roy’s dedication to the betterment of our business community through his support of our chamber has made a difference for all of our community. His recognition by our chamber as Man of the Year is certainly deserved.”

Before his appointment as City Manager, Rodriguez served as General Manager of the McAllen Public Utility and Assistant City Manager. His public service career also includes positions as City Engineer, Assistant City Manager and City Manager in Harlingen, Texas, as well as City Engineer in Weslaco, Jefferson County Engineer in Beaumont and Area Engineer in Oklahoma.

Rodriguez holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Texas A&I University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Texas – Pan American. His deep commitment to the community extends to his current role on the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) Board of Trustees, a position that he was honorably appointed by Governor Greg Abbott. He previously served on the TMRS Board from 2005 to 2018, after being appointed by Governor Rick Perry, who also appointed him to the Rio Grande Regional Water Authority Board in 2009.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Mr. Rodriguez actively contributes to multiple advisory councils, including the Public Administration Advisory Council at South Texas College and the Dean’s Advisory Board at Texas A&M University Kingsville College of Engineering. He is also a distinguished member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Texas City Management Association (TCMA), where he was named Administrator of the Year in 2017. Currently serving as TCMA Region President, Mr. Rodriguez was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from TCMA in 2023.

Roel “Roy” Rodriguez’s long-standing dedication to his faith, family and community is evident in all aspects of his life. He is a devoted member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church and enjoys spending time with his wife and their three children.

“We are proud to honor Natasha del Barrio and Roy Rodriguez, whose long-term contributions have had great impact on the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, the greater McAllen community, and our region. Thank you to our Man & Woman of the Year for their exemplary service and inspiring dedication,” said Hershal Patel, Chair-elect of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce is honored to celebrate Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E. and Natasha A. Del Barrio for their leadership, and contributions to the community at the 69th Annual Man & Woman of the Year Awards, which will take place from 6:30-10:00 p.m. on November 7, 2024, at the McAllen Convention Center.

For reserved tables, sponsorships, or additional inquiries, please contact Vice President of Membership Services Blanca Cardenas at (956) 682-2871 or bcardenas@mcallenchamber.com.

Since 1955, the McAllen Chamber of Commerce has honored two exceptional individuals each year, recognizing their outstanding contributions and commitment to the City of McAllen.