It’s hard to believe, but it’s already been eight months since I accepted the gavel last October in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. In honor of that, I’ve put together some observations I’ve made so far as Chairman of the NPCA Board of Directors. This is part one. Observations five through seven will be included in a post next Monday.
1. I’ve always known NPCA is a family, but it’s a far bigger and closer family than I ever realized. In my acceptance speech, I talked about some of the people in the NPCA family that have been influential on my career. As chairman, I’ve seen just how many of these types of close relationships there are and how much they mean. Not only does NPCA help us advance the industry, it also creates lasting friendships and business contacts that have surpassed generations
2. Speaking of generations, there’s a new one beginning to earn its place at the table in this industry, and that’s exciting. My father, Al, started Bethlehem Precast, and I was honored to take it over when he retired. I hope to leave my sons with a company they are proud to be a part of. I see the same thing happening everywhere: a new generation poised take over the reins or that already has done so. These young men and women have a fresh perspective and lots of energy and ideas. I fully believe they will lead our industry into the future with great success.
3. There’s a lot more to be gained from an NPCA membership than many of us realize. I attended my first NPCA Convention with my father in 1992. Since then, I’ve participated in various roles over the years, culminating this year as chairman. While I’ve always known NPCA has a lot to offer, I never realized quite how much until this year. I encourage all of you to take advantage of the full range of educational opportunities, meetings, volunteer positions, online resources and more.
4. We may be operating in a less-than-perfect economy, but our association has remained solid. Many other associations are operating in the red or diminishing their offerings, but NPCA is financially stable and continually growing its programs.
More to come next Monday with observations five through seven.
Tom Engelman
Board Chair, National Precast Concrete Association
congrats on your position as Chairman…hope you and your family are well. Business has been a challenge to say the least. I have been away from the NPCA for some time now. I truly miss the relationships that I have made over the years in the NPCA. Hopefully, someday soon I can reemerge with the energy and enthusiasm I once had for the NPCA. Call me sometime I would love to catch up.
Jay