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It’s All About Who You Associate With – The Case for Strong Industry Associations

Across every conceivable industry in virtually every market segment, you’ll find associations that represent the interests of its member companies. It’s all about advancing the cause of the association – be it products or services. There are numerous sound reasons for why it’s imperative to have a strong industry association that advocates for the industry in public and private venues, particularly in government and political circles. That’s why Victory Energy is an active member of our industry association, the American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA), and the chief reason behind my serving as Vice Chairman of the Board. It’s a case of getting as much out of the association as you put in. Associations are only as good as the member companies and people who belong. I’ve found that the ABMA supports our industry and Victory Energy in many diverse and compelling ways.

Greater Market Insights – Sum of the Parts Mentality

Every market category faces both opportunities and obstacles each and every day. The boiler industry is no different. You view the selling landscape through the prism that is your individual business. Industry information from the ABMA provides all member companies with a snapshot of what is happening. Hearing from industry economists and futurists helps you to plan for the future. Having competitors validate and or invalidate your closely held perceptions provides a far deeper level of insight. Strong industry associations, where sales information is widely reported, dissected and discussed, provides far more data points to consider when making critical business decisions.

Information Exchange – Best Practice Sharing

I just returned from the annual ABMA meeting in Florida. One of the most beneficial facets of the meeting is the ability to converse with peers about the state of the business. You obtain as much information as you’re willing to provide. Everyone benefits from a rising tide – that being the boiler industry. Attending these industry meetings with an open mind and a keen ear for listening is always beneficial. You learn in surprising and new ways – often very different thinking than you knew going into the meeting. Learning from your peers, and even competitors, is invigorating. It’s all about becoming better and maintaining healthy business and personal relationships with competitors you try to beat every day.

Advancing the Next Generation of Boiler Professionals

The ABMA offers various scholarships as part of a concerted effort to motivate young people to become a part of this exciting and great industry. Many recipients of ABMA scholarships are part of the Victory Energy family – sons and daughters of our employees. This has happened continuously, year over year, with many recipients receiving renewed scholarships.

Advocacy Support – Speaking Out for Us

Many industries require a strong voice with the government – especially in Washington. The boiler industry has its share of challenges on several environmental fronts. Having a strong ally such as the ABMA advocating for the member companies is critically important. They keep us informed about issues that affect our business.

Participating in an industry association takes considerable time and energy. You must go into it wholehearted. It needs to be a priority, not only at the top of the organization but also throughout it. The more participation, the greater value the association is able to deliver for its members I’m proud that Victory Energy is a strong, long-term proponent and member of the ABMA.

 

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