DIRECTOR’S DIALOGUE:
It is a sad day when your run comes to an end, whether it is the first loss in an undefeated season or involvement at an executive level. I have always heard of the seven year cycle, well involvement here at the Institute is not any different.
My involvement here at the Institute started with giving a Showcase presentation; a 45-minute presentation; facilitating a Technical Bulletin breakout session; getting involved on the Program Planning committee; which ultimately led to “the” call. I believe it was my good friend Mike Ahearn who, back in 2004, made my day when he invited me to participate at the Board level. What better way to make an impact than to get involved in an organization that sets the standard within the sealant, waterproofing & restoration industry. It has been the most memorable and rewarding professional experience in my life!
As my tenure with the Board comes to an end, I can reflect on all the good bestowed upon me. The take-away from the educational sessions offers implementation tactics to better ones business. If you need continuing education credits, the Institute alone fulfills annual needs from a Professional Engineer’s standpoint. Besides the educational merit, one also makes lifelong friendships. These are individuals who become “your go to resource”. I said it before and I will say it again, the best minds and materials in our industry are here at the Institute.
Over the years, the Institute has worked diligently in creating and maintaining an open and welcoming environment. The Ambassadorial Program pairs first timers with veterans thus providing answers to questions and introductions to new faces, which positively jumpstarts the first timer’s experience. It makes my day to recognize that many of my first timers remain active at a high level, thus the system is working. In addition, headquarters offers Orientation meetings providing a structural insider view of the Institute’s operations. It is important to have these measures in place as sometimes first timers comprise up to 15% of our meeting attendance. As you can see, retention of first timers is imperative. Please take time to interact with some new faces in the future as it means a lot!
As we continue to move forward, one of our greatest challenges is the development of future leaders. I believe this is a problem not uncommon within any volunteer based organization. You have read in past Member Briefs various articles trying to encourage member participation. My plea is no different. We need to avoid being caught in the stereotypical phrase that 80% of the work is generated by 20% of the membership. Over the years, we have talked about and even tried to incorporate requirements of membership. The underlying intent was to breed involvement. Shifting these percentages starts with you! Reach out to someone you know and simply ask for their assistance. If we do not ask we do not get! Involvement is the catch and return on your investment.
All of our businesses are gauged on profitability. I know it is not a stretch to say that even though we all love what we do; we are still in it to make a buck or two. Financial success generally satisfies our personal and professional sacrifices. Besides the education merit/resources/relationships, many of us look even further about what financially we get in return from going to conferences and paying dues. Sometimes good things take time.
I am proud to provide you a couple examples which more than covered the cost of our membership. Approximately a year ago, Frank Halsey of Mid Continental Restoration (MCR) contacted me regarding a major restoration project in the southeast. The timing was such that one of his branches could not solely staff the project. In return, we partnered with MCR towards the successful completion of this project. This opportunity came to us as a result of the Institute. In addition, our two firms have just negotiated another significant project within the same geographic territory. However, responsibilities have flipped as MCR is subordinate to Seager. Again, I attribute this opportunity to the Institute! Another good example is a large parking deck structure within the Carolinas. Due to the aggressive construction schedule, I contacted my good friend Bill Leonhard of Allied Waterproofing. Within days we were able to formulate a cost competitive proposal outlining distinct scope responsibilities. These are two recent examples of the benefit to our company from our membership. There are many more as I am sure you can attest to as well!
It is not hard to distinguish our benefits in membership far outweigh the cost. I know we all are experiencing the tough economic downturn. Bidders lists are lengthy, margins are tight and many are doing what they can to weather the storm. Members of the Institute are leaders in our industry. Inasmuch as there are many different leadership styles and it may be difficult at times, the best managed companies will survive. Active members are the winners here at the Institute.
Over the past decade, we have made great strides advancing our industry and the Institute. New initiatives such as contractor validation and training programs; Trinity Project Award program; Virtual Golf Play-a-thon all promote best practices and membership synergy. Be a part of Team SWRInstitute and ride the wave to success, get involved as it reaps rewards!
In closing, I hope this dialogue assists in recognizing the value added the Institute brings to your business and life in general. May you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! See you soon in Naples!
Jed Daniel, P.E.
Immediate Past President
