I want to thank everyone for the warm welcome! I am eager to get started and learn about an industry that has seen so much growth and innovation over the last two years. Never in a million years did I think I would be telling my friends and family over the holidays about working in air filtration and their eyes lighting up, saying “AIR FILTRATION! What an amazing opportunity!”
There is a lot to learn so I will thank you in advance for your patience and welcome all ideas and advice. A huge thank you to my dear friend and colleague Michelle Czosek (and of course Terry!) for helping me get up to speed. The impact you have made on NAFA will be felt for years to come. Thank you also to those who have reached out or welcomed my phones calls. It is clear that NAFA is a respected community of professionals who believe in their products and services, support the organization, and like to have a little fun while connecting with others. I am excited to jump in and support a thriving NAFA!
I had the opportunity to meet many NAFA leaders and members at the Annual Convention in November. Florida did not disappoint with perfect weather and many opportunities to connect, learn, and share. Despite safety concerns, our members were ready to get together in person. We had 131 attendees representing 67 companies, from across 23 states and Canada. There was renewed energy and excitement about the future of the industry, and it was great to be a part of it.
Planning is now underway for the 2022 Technical Seminar, and I hope to see many of you in Louisville, Kentucky, April 5-7. The seminar will include three days of programming, a NAFA Foundation activity, and networking receptions as well as CAFS and NCT Testing.
We are positioned to have a successful year under Roberta’s leadership and the support of the NAFA Board of Directors. We are eager to get working on a refreshed strategic plan and keep the momentum our industry has seen over the last 20 months. On the operational side of things, we will be focused on increasing our visibility and brand, making sure our governance practices support the work that we do and the growth that is ahead, and making sure we have an engaged membership through multiple touchpoints and opportunities to get involved. If you have ideas about how we can support you and your company or want to get more involved, please let me know.
Our team looks forward to seeing many of you at the AHR Expo in Vegas next month. Please make your way to NAFA booth C5510 to say hello. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, concerns, or great ideas – ebardach@nafahq.org. We want to hear from you!