The ABC Institute for Leadership & Professional Development is designed for member companies and chapter leaders. This year’s institute was held in late October in Orlando. Representing ABC of Western Washington were: Les Sargeant, United Systems Mechanical, LLC, chapter chair; Erin VerHoeven, Corstone Contractors, LLC, chapter chair-elect; and four staff members: President Kathleen Garrity, Vice President-Membership Wendy Novak, Vice President-Communications & Events Victoria Klyce, and Vice President-Government & Labor Affairs Aran Buchan.
In addition, Pam and Larry Stewart, Synergy Construction, Inc., attended the Construction Executive track. Sessions were held on a wide variety of topics for volunteer leaders, chapter staff and construction executives. Nick Cooper (Cooper Johnson Enterprises), attended the National Diversity Committee and the board meeting.
The Western Washington Chapter also provided some of the programming. Aran spoke on a panel on “How to Build an Effective State Government Affairs Program.” He discussed developing the infrastructure to an effective government affairs program, communicating with members and government officials, and raising political action committee funds.
Wendy spoke at two sessions concerning membership growth. She is the incoming chair of the National Membership Council and had many other responsibilities in that capacity.
Kathleen sat on a panel concerning the chapter diversity program. Member Aaron Lindstrom (Enterprise Fleet Management) led two workshops on sales techniques that were very well-received.