Remembering the Past …
But Looking Towards the Future
Time continues to go by quickly. As I look forward to this year’s IPMI Conference & Expo in New Orleans, my last as IPMI board chairman, I would be remiss if I did not look back first as to how I got here. I have been fortunate to serve on the IPMI board since 2015; the last three years as chair. When I first served on the board of directors for IPMI, we were in a pre-pandemic world and the parking industry was thriving. I got to experience first-hand the important role both IPMI and the state and regional associations play in our industry.
During a global pandemic that virtually shut down the world, our industry, like most, was hit hard. Tough decisions had to be made. The most difficult was the cancellation of the 2020 IPMI Conference & Expo. We all experienced the challenges of mass business closures, remote working, social distancing, online interactions, protective masks, and isolation. Remember, it is not the challenges we face that define us, it is our response. The challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic have been an opportunity to tap into our greatest potential, our membership. The strength, compassion, and agility that I have witnessed in the past year are unmatched.
That is exactly how IPMI responded. IPMI staff, along with the many volunteers, coordinated a concerted effort to keep the industry connected. Volunteers stepped up conducting webinars, shop talks, and participated daily in the Forum online community. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to help guide and serve alongside so many dedicated professionals, especially during the pandemic. Additionally, it goes without saying that none of this would be possible without the countless number of volunteers.
Looking forward, I anticipate a continued path to normalcy thanks to our membership. I look forward to this year’s IPMI Conference & Expo, building upon the successful attenuated conference in Tampa in December 2021. I envision a return of attendees and vendors in New Orleans and the return to the convention center for a full Expo Hall, with exhibits wall to wall. It will be exciting to see the education sessions, and the expo hall packed with networking at its fullest potential.
Even though this will be my transition away from chair of IPMI, I am excited that Gary Means will be assuming the chair position. I know Gary, and his hands-on leadership will be a true asset to IPMI. Working alongside the board, Gary’s leadership will ensure continued success through the obstacles and opportunities of the years ahead.
Our future is bright, and I challenge everyone to stay committed and connected. Together, we can thrive as an industry.
Looking forward to seeing everyone in NOLA!!!
