I'm Takajiro Ishikawa from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc. and I have succeeded Mr. Hayasaka as President of the Japan Business Association of Houston (JBAH) starting in October 2023. First, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Hayasaka for his tremendous efforts and contributions, leaving JBAH in a great place.

 

I have lived in the United States for 25 years and spent six years of my youth in Canada, amounting to 31 total years in North America. That's nearly half my life and more than half of my professional career. For the past seven years, I've resided in Houston with my wife and our elder dog, who proudly say that cooking steaks on the BBQ grill when we welcome guests to our home is no longer a hobby.

 

As many know, the Inflation Reduction Act has increased incentives for businesses across various industries to decarbonize. The United States has become a magnet for energy transition business opportunities, and companies worldwide are ready to contribute to realizing a decarbonized society. Many Japanese companies in the Houston area are deeply involved in this field, and I hope we can strengthen our ties through JBAH activities.

​

With the support of the Consulate General of Japan in Houston, I plan to deepen our cooperation with other organizations, continue to support and promote friendship among member companies, enhance the presence of Japanese companies across Houston, and contribute to the operation of the Japanese Language Supplementary School of Houston. Additionally, some organizational reform has been conducted to carry out these activities flexibly and effectively.

​

In November, we will host "Rokusya Koryukai," an annual networking event with five other Texas cities. I greatly appreciate your continuous support and look forward to the year ahead.

 

 

October 1st, 2023