... now that I've had a chance to breathe since returning from the Alabama Round Table, I would like to join the collective thanks to Russ, Stacie & Ron for organizing a great event.
Would also like to say thanks to Pete and Nichole from Sunbright, Bob from Pressure Tek, Robert from Delco and Paul from Envirospec North for sponsoring the round table - I'm sure I speak for all in attendance when I say that without their support it surely would have been a different event.
On a personal level, I want to publicly acknowledge Russ for sharing his thoughts and insights - he is a true professional and in my opinion deserves credit as being a leader in our industry.
I am sure many would agree when I say that Ron Musgraves is developing a valuable resource in the form of a national round table program. Many may question his intentions - but I would say that without his efforts there would be no such network in existence at this moment in time. The obvious benefits are contractor networking, education and raising awareness of a level of professionalism in our industry (even though it is still a largely fragmented industry). To me, one example from Alabama that shows a TRUE benefit of these Round Tables was the presence of Robert Hinderliter from Delco... he spoke about BMP's and how they CAN and WILL affect our industry at a 'local' level. He stressed the importance of getting involved with industry organizations such as PWNA and UAMCC in helping to shape our local waste water policies... if we don't, we vote by default for whatever municipalities decide. Back to the point, this situation was brought to the attention of new and experienced contractors by an industry veteran and true expert in the field.
It was an honor to meet everyone in attendance... I'll roll through a few names...
Larry, funny... funny guy - was great to meet you, hopefully we can get a group of us together in Central FL before the RT... if not, I'll catch you at it!
Eric & Jen, I only spoke to you briefly, but you are smart, genuine people - good luck in the coming year!
Trey, Roger & Lee... was great meeting you guys... great conversation, dry sense of humor (loved it!!!) - hopefully meet you guys again some time.
Michael... good luck in your marathon learning experience... Connecticut, Alabama, Florida, Connecticut - you're crazy (or dedicated?!!) Hope it works out for you!
Jonathan Ellis, Scott from Scottwash, Bob from PT (great guy!), Nichole from Sunbright, USA Rose, Mike Cooke... and so many others, nice meeting and talking to you all - hope I wasn't too difficult to understand
oh yeah, Thad... thanks for introducing me to yuengling... NICE!! You're presentation was great, you're a natural!
Jeff... your enthusiasm is infectious... if there's one thing that Jeff gets across well it is how to be persistent and not take NO for an answer!!! LOL
"Keep your name in front of them"... thanks for the words of encouragement Jeff!
I've probably forgotten a ton of folk... sorry!!!
I enjoyed the whole weekend - rough as hell on Sunday morning, but was a good time!