From leadership conversations and cross-border networking to a behind-the-scenes look at German engineering, August 25–27 brought three opportunities for the GACC South community to connect, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships across Texas and beyond.
Three days. Three different events. One common thread: people connecting, ideas being exchanged, and opportunities beginning.
From Dallas to Fort Worth, GACC South brought together business leaders, members, partners, and professionals from across its network for a week that reflected the strength of the German-American business community and the importance of building relationships beyond state and industry borders.
August 25 | LeadHERship: Inside the Conversations
The week began with the official launch of LeadHERship: Inside the Conversations, a new GACC South initiative creating space for authentic conversations about leadership, personal growth, and the experiences that shape professional journeys.
Hosted by International Capital, LLC, the inaugural event featured Nicola Bremer, Pia Orrenius, Sunitha Vegerla, and Courtney Woo, with Sina Bueckle, MBA, moderating the discussion.
The panelists shared personal experiences and perspectives on trust, loyalty, resilience, taking risks, setting boundaries, and navigating challenges throughout their careers. Their stories highlighted that leadership is not always about having every answer, but also about believing in yourself, learning from setbacks, supporting others, and finding the courage to take the next step.
The evening brought together women and men from across the business community for open dialogue, shared experiences, and new connections, setting the foundation for future LeadHERship conversations.
A special thank you to our hosting sponsor, International Capital, LLC, particularly Andreas Bremer and Sandra Bauer, for supporting the inaugural event. We also extend our appreciation to Melanie Lindert-Schwanz for contributing the thoughtful goodie bags and to everyone who helped bring the event to life.
August 26 | Joint Dallas Stammtisch with EACC Texas
The following evening, GACC South joined forces with the European American Chamber of Commerce Texas (EACC Texas) for a joint German Stammtisch at Bavarian Grill in Plano.
The evening brought together business leaders, professionals, members, and friends from the German-American and broader European-American business communities for networking in a relaxed setting, accompanied by Bavarian food and drinks.
With attendees traveling from Dallas, Houston, South Carolina, and beyond, the gathering demonstrated the reach of GACC South's network and the value of maintaining connections across regions.
As a chamber serving businesses across 11 Southern U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, GACC South connects companies and professionals through events, services, and opportunities for exchange. The Dallas Stammtisch served as another reminder that the strength of this network lies in the people who participate, make introductions, share experiences, and build lasting relationships.
Thank you to EACC Texas, particularly Erin McKelvey and Stefan Boehmer, and GACC South Chairman Gerrit Zwergel for their support in bringing the communities together.
August 27 | Behind the Scenes at RECARO Aircraft Seating
The three-day program concluded with a visit to RECARO Aircraft Seating in Fort Worth, offering GACC South members and guests an exclusive look inside the company's manufacturing operations.
120 years of engineering heritage. More than 55 years of aviation expertise. 28 years of manufacturing in Texas.
RECARO's history dates back to 1906, when Wilhelm Reutter founded the Stuttgarter Reutter Carosserie- und Radfabrik in Germany. The RECARO name was established in 1963, combining Reutter and Carosserie, and the company entered the aircraft seating industry in 1971. Since 1998, RECARO has manufactured aircraft seats for the Americas at its Fort Worth location.
During the visit, participants were divided into smaller groups for a guided tour of the facility, gaining firsthand insights into the engineering, technology, precision, and craftsmanship involved in producing aircraft seating.
Beyond the manufacturing processes, the tour highlighted the people whose expertise, teamwork, and attention to detail contribute to RECARO's continued development and international operations.
The visit also welcomed Nicola Bremer and Alexander Stemmer from the German Consulate General in Houston, further underscoring the importance of German-American business relations in Texas.
Our appreciation goes to Sunitha Vegerla, Lacy Willhite, GACC South Chairman Gerrit Zwergel, and the entire RECARO Aircraft Seating team for opening their doors and providing our community with an inside look at the company and its operations.
Different Events. Different Perspectives. One Connected Community.
From conversations about leadership to networking across borders and experiencing German engineering firsthand, the three events demonstrated the different ways GACC South brings people and businesses together.
We extend our thanks to all speakers, hosts, partners, members, and guests who participated throughout the week, including those who traveled from other cities and states to be part of the program.
Whether through industry insights, professional exchange, or a conversation over a drink, these connections help strengthen the German-American business community and create new opportunities for collaboration.
Because behind every business relationship are people. And behind every opportunity is a connection.