IDA Newsletter Jan 2017

President's Letter

By Mike Dickson, CD-SV, RT

I want to wish every IDA member a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2017! January begins my term as IDA President, and I resolve to offer my best efforts and beyond for the IDA and its members.

The IDA and detailing industry had an epic turnout last week for MTE 2017 in Orlando. Passion for our craft and profession was everywhere you looked, from the education class attendees filling every room and into the hallways, to the supplier booths, and the Annual Business Meeting where the new board was inducted and awards were given out. If you missed it, be sure to make the trip next year to energize your business and yourself!

I have been in the detail industry for 35 years, and firmly believe that a "rising tide lifts all boats". The IDA was founded nine years ago, gained traction through the dedicated efforts of its board and involved members, and in the last year or two has reached a tipping point and groundswell. Because of the hard work by that core group, we are on the crest of that wave, looking forward. We can see many possibilities for our industry, which is ourselves, and the future looks bright.

One of the basic underlying goals of the IDA has always been to raise the standard and perception of our profession in the public eye. Another benefit of elevating that public perception is that we can see ourselves reflected in that light. We then realize that the good we have done by supporting our common organization is also good done for our customers, our companies, our colleagues, and ourselves.

By joining the IDA, you have demonstrated commitment to your craft, profession, and yourself. The benefit may seem like an intangible one, but it is very real. It emanates through all your daily actions, and illuminates the reasons behind those daily actions. The IDA Code of Ethics honors all of us, and creates a mini-utopia where customers, detailers, and suppliers are involved in a win-win-win equation.

By belonging to the IDA, you are part of a group that shares your passions, and your concerns. We've often heard: together we are stronger. All you need to do is take a look at the IDA today, to see that is true.

So I would encourage each of you to take time to get involved this year. Join a committee. The four committees are: Certification, Membership, Tradeshow and Education, and Marketing and Communication. Invest yourself and your efforts in the IDA, and you will be surprised at how immediate the results and returns occur. You will meet great people who are interested in you and your goals; your ambitions and challenges. Your skill set will improve, and you will have a support group who believes in and contributes to your success and happiness. And you will become a bigger part of the evolving growth that is the International Detailing Association.