Q2 2010 / GAWDA Conference 2010

Nearly 600 people attended this year’s annual Spring Management Conference held in an ideal location – Chicago on April 20. The numbers represented a significant increase over 2009, and our four representatives from Specialty Gas Report all noted the air at this year’s event seemed charged with cautious enthusiasm and optimism.

Attendees discussed a wide range of topics including industry growth, best practices, and management changes.

They networked with industry colleagues, met with key suppliers at the Contact Booth Program, and heard from presenters on issues such as total accountability and boosting operational practices.

Looking to the future

In her opening address, 2010 president Jenny McCall described the activities of the board over the past nine months. She noted that many volunteers “got in the game” as evidenced by energized committees that have revised mission statements, added new members, and developed serious objectives.

2010 GAWDA president Jenny McCall.

“The overall goal,” said McCall, “is to get more members involved in association policy and program development. Recommendations coming from the committees will guide strategic planning by the Board this summer.”

Member benefits have increased, including no-charge access to GAWDA University, more regional meetings, and an improved website.

Clarifying changes ahead

In a much-anticipated presentation, president McCall explained the history of the relationship with Fernley & Fernley, the association’s management company, and clarified the organization’s current position on changes ahead.

Beginning May 5, meeting management and back-office functions will be handled by the American Welding Society (AWS).

McCall explained that the decision to change was not made lightly. She expressed confidence that a stronger organization with more control of executive management decisions would result.

“The key question surrounding the transition is ‘Who owns GAWDA?’,” stated McCall. “The answer is simple: The companies that pay dues and the employees who attend meetings, serve on committees and actively participate in the association are GAWDA’s owners. You, the members, have the right to decide how GAWDA is managed.

Ron Lucas

Ron Lucas has written on gases, equipment and technologies used in the medical, specialty, and industrial gas markets for several industrial trade publications over the last thirteen years. Now, serving as editor of Specialty Gas Report magazine, he can be reached at:

ron.lucas@specialtygasreport.com