By: Gary Machen

The final test of a leader is that he leaves behind him in other men the conviction and the will to carry on. 
Walter Lippman

 Phil, I hope to carry on and pick up your lead from these past years as our President.  We all greatly appreciate your hard work and leadership of IBOA, and bringing us many positive changes and innovations. Further, I thank you and the rest of the board for your confidence in electing me as your successor and hope to lead with your conviction as my guide.

I started out thinking my first message would a simple word about the need to attend the annual convention, and quickly realized that there is a more urgent message needing to be given.  That of an awareness of the economic times and the impact upon our jobs.  It’s our time to shine bright with IBOA.

As many of you know, our businesses and institutions are being tested to the point of breaking with the recent economic downturns, budget cuts, and facility closures.  Yet through it all there is one area that remains in our control, that of ourselves, and polishing up your ultimate worth.  When the trend is to look for areas to make cuts, make yourselves more resistant by completing your certifications, continuing with training, and seeking invaluable support through your contacts.  Make those overdue calls to your local utilities, seek advice from industry experts and firm-up your resumes and importance by learning more in these tougher times.   You can become that go-to-guru or that invaluable resource, by knowing how to save money on utilities, upgrades, or maintenance.   Become resourceful, pioneering, and the professional IBOA is supporting you to be. 

 I urge you to come to the convention, learn what’s new, and bring home new ideas and innovations.   Your company may not be able to afford to send you this year, but find a way to come anyway if you can.  Make the investment into your credentials and marketability.  Use IBOA to help legitimize your position and to bring increased value to your trade.

Now more than ever, it’s our time to shine as professionals.  While we sincerely send our best wishes and sympathy to those who have recently lost their jobs, we all know how tenuous our worlds are and know our world could abruptly change as well.  

So, turn those caps around, it’s time to rally!  And as Red Green says, “just remember, I’m pullin’ for ya, we’re all in this together.”

I hope to see you all in Missoula in June.

 Gary

Read the remainder of the Spring 10 Newsletter by clicking here.