Advantage by Association

Joining industry associations is one of the most valuable investments that converters and industry suppliers can make. And the investment doesn't stop there, because to make it worth while, you need to be an active participant in meetings and conferences. In all the association events that I have attended—which are usually packed with informative sessions, many times presented by renowned experts in their fields—I can only recall a couple sessions that I felt were just adequate. Most are highly entertaining and filled with tangible take-work (as opposed to take-home) advice.

Associations such as AIMCAL, TLMI, FPA, FTA, and PPC—just to name a few—offer a number of annual meetings each year that fall into this category. Two additional factors make them desirable and valuable events. First, these conferences are typically held in resort venues that allow attendees relax and look at their businesses from a different perspective. Second, and most important, the opportunity to network and develop business and personal relationships is priceless. Personal relationships matter more now that they ever did and many times, relationships formed at these events last a lifetime.

AIMCAL (Association of International Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators) is about to hold its annual Management Meeting, March 10-13 at Rancho Las Palmas in Rancho Mirage, Calif. The line up is impressive: Robert C. Fry Jr., Ph.D., senior economist at DuPont Co., with his annual economic forecast; Don Schmincke, business consultant, on High Altitude Leadership; Failing to Succeed by Dr. David Roisum of Finishing Technologies, Inc., a converting industry consultant; an outlook for the paper, film, coating, laminating, and converting marketplace presented by Corey Reardon, of Alexander Watson Associates, a global market research firm; and much more.

With the gap between success and failure so razor thin, involvement in industry associations can make the difference.