A true value

For SC&RA’s members around the world, the benefit of Association membership goes without saying – and there’s a reason for that. Whether through its comprehensive member directory, renowned awards and recognition program, countless opportunities for business development or annual events and networking opportunities, SC&RA works tirelessly for its members, and in turn, its members tirelessly build the world.

Ken Goddard agrees, especially when it comes to the Membership Directory. As Vice President/Mexican Operations with International Industrial Contracting Corporation, Goddard believes the Directory is the “Who’s Who” in the crane, rigging and specialized transportation industry. “It gives exclusive access to this elite group of industry professionals by providing the services delivered by each company, and their contact information,” he said. “Such access allows you to provide service to your clients by reaching out to a member in another state, or even another country, and procure local services, such as labor, equipment and materials, in a region that would typically cost tens of thousands of dollars to provide from your home base.” About a third of Association members upgrade their listings for greater brand presence. Emphasizing the importance of brand awareness, Goddard suggests the Directory is a very inexpensive way for a company to put its brand in front of a target audience. “When I turn to the Directory to find a resource, the upgraded ads catch my eye immediately, which more than likely prompts me to contact them more often than others.” 

Another way in which SC&RA members make membership pay is by leveraging the Awards Program. Keith Settle, Vice President at OXBO Mega Transport Solutions, appreciates the value of being able to spread the word through multiple channels. “After the Annual Conference, SC&RA follows up by posting all award entries across social media and often with ACT magazine covers – not only winners, but all entries throughout the year,” he noted.

The Awards Program also generates a ripple effect that can end up adding tremendous value. Randy Sever, Executive Vice President at PSC Crane & Rigging, understands that submitting a project showcases a member’s capabilities to their peers. “It’s an opportunity to highlight a project, your people, your equipment and your ability to overcome challenges. It gives you exposure throughout the industry.

Marketing one’s membership status is a fourth way a company can maximize involvement with the Association. “There is a perceived quality and value that SC&RA members bring to a project,” said Todd Haraty, COO at Silk Road Transport, Inc.

Members can also benefit greatly from using SC&RA as a resource. “I can call SC&RA and I know I’ll get valuable feedback and information regarding regulations, trends, industry challenges and much more,” said Sever. He added, “The ability to use the Association as a resource – including the magazines, events, access to other members through networking and contact information, webinars and white papers and of course, through volunteering on one of the many committees – it’s really an amazing opportunity that you won’t find anywhere else.”

Larry Wainscott, Practice Leader with Global Executive Solutions Group, recognizes a sixth way to maximize one’s SC&RA membership: attending the meetings. “As a member, you can either attend at a discounted rate, or if you decide to exhibit at the Exhibit Center or Products Fair, you can purchase that involvement, which includes one paid fee for attendance,” he explained “So we tend to go that route because it allows for better exposure in what we do. I’m an executive recruiter, so for me, being able to have a booth in and amongst that group of people, and being able to interact with the folks that are coming to the products fair, is a real value for us.” Wainscott has only been with his firm for three years, so he also understands the impact SC&RA meetings can have on newcomers. Like many members, Wainscott has no problem spreading the word. “A lot of times when I’m on the phone with potential clients, I’ll ask them if they’re members of SC&RA – it’s one of my first lines. I tell them I’m an Allied member. If they’re not, I pass on the information and encourage them to join. SC&RA goes above and beyond providing a platform for capturing the information and education we need to succeed in this industry – no matter what side of it you’re coming from.”

Financial & Risk Management Forum

Hosted by SC&RA and NBIS (NationsBuilders Insurance Services, Inc.), the 2017 Financial & Risk Management Forum is set for November 8-9 at the Hyatt Regency in Fairfax, VA.

The Forum provides education on key financial management practices, employee benefits, succession planning, business strategy and overall risk management profitability strategies. Attendees include: owners, CFOs, CEOs, controllers and other top managers.

Including multiple presentations, networking opportunities and a reception, across two days, some Forum highlights include:

Are you Inspection Ready?

Presented by Bill Smith, EVP Claims & Risk Management, NBIS, and Tyrone Silva, Risk Manager, NBIS, this session asks attendees if their safety culture prevents accidents, prepares them for third-party inspections and takes a look at recordkeeping (driver files, training files, etc.).

Addressing the Reptile Theory: Is the Enemy Within?

Presented by John Pion, Managing Partner, and Tim Smith, Partner, of Pion, Nerone, Girman, Winslow and Smith, this presentation will review an evolving theory of personal liability attorneys who are utilizing the “Reptile Theory” to create fear in juries across the country, which has produced huge verdicts. The presentation will educate its audience on the theory and tactics to avoid its pitfalls.

Successful Financial Strategies for Your Specialized Company

Presented by Mike Whitlock, Tannian Consulting, this program will combine the elements of critical financial management with strategic planning, and will incorporate the most important findings of the 2017 Financial Benchmarking Study funded by the SC&R Foundation, as planning tools. Participants will come away with new insights on how to prosper in their unique industries and manage their businesses for improved performance and a stronger future.

Registration is open to all SC&RA members and opens on August 2. Visit www.scranet.org/SCRA/Events for more information. SC&R Foundation Grants to attend the Forum are available to SC&RA members. Apply online at www.scr-foundation.org.