Members Gather in Charlotte to Learn, Connect
Regardless of our individual roles in the farm equipment business industry, we must continue to learn and build relationships to succeed. That simple truth is at the heart of the growth of the annual Farm Equipment Manufacturers Association’s Spring Conference and Showcase, which drew more than 300 executives and their guests from both the manufacturing and supply sides of the industry.
The Association’s first meeting in Charlotte offered members opportunities to hear from experts and one another about the state of the industry and gather ideas on how to move their businesses forward. They explored topics such as supply chain management, reducing nutrient runoff to prevent algal blooms, big data in precision crop production, innovations in powder coat painting, how to use social media to market their businesses, and regulations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
And, they had a little fun. Members continue to share with Association staff that the time they spend with their colleagues from throughout the United States and Canada is as valuable to them as the educational sessions. In Charlotte, the conference included opportunities for golf, trap shooting, a team-building visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and informal social gatherings.
Among highlights was a keynote presentation with Michael Waltz, author of Warrior Diplomat: a Green Beret’s Battles from Washington to Afghanistan. Waltz, who is also a senior national security fellow with the New America Foundation and president of Metis Solutions, a defense and intelligence contracting firm, talked with members and signed books after his presentation. (If you did not get a book in Charlotte and want one, contact the Association office.)
A record 68 supplier member companies invited manufacturers to a showcase to see what was new in the industry and relevant to the manufacturers’ work. Mike Kloster, 2015 president of the Farm Equipment Manufacturers Association and president of Worksaver Inc. in Litchfield, IL, said the showcase is especially valuable for Worksaver.
“Over the years,” he said, “we have found many partners who have supplied us with outstanding components and services. Some we would not have connected with if not for the showcase.”
If you attended the meeting in Charlotte, you soon will receive a survey asking you to evaluate the conference. If you missed this meeting, we will be in touch soon to hear from you about what you want to see in next year’s meeting, which will be held later in the spring in response to members’ input. We will meet in early April on the beach in Clearwater, FL, a site chosen in part because of its easy access to airports in Tampa and St. Petersburg. The meeting will conclude on Friday so members can avoid weekend travel. Hotel and dates will be announced in our next newsletter.