Dear Readers:

It’s January – and we’re off and running! I sincerely hope that everyone had an enjoyable holiday season, and got to catch up – even just a little bit – on some sleep. People left and right are getting sick with a whole mixed bag of illnesses. Please do what you need to do to stay healthy.

So here are my highlights for the month:

1. ASA members – I hope you voted for your officers and board of directors. If not, check your emails from January 15 and do it today. Short bios of the candidates are right on the site.
2. While the December issue of Contractor’s Compass got lots of kudos, make sure you at least skim the Table of Contents for this January issue and get intrigued by the perspectives on AI and other topics. Whether you want some tips on avoiding deepfake attacks, how the construction industry is implementing AI, how to balance the AI/Human interface, or what some of the legal ramifications are…we’ve got a variety of perspectives.
3. A few weeks back I sent out a request to our chapter leaders asking for some membership information. The goal is to collect relevant demographic information that can be used by ASA at the local, state, and national levels to paint a picture of the constituents represented by ASA membership and the economic impact they have on the construction industry. All chapters and members are encouraged to respond to the survey so we can get as complete a picture as possible. This is just another friendly nudge.
4. I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t remind you about SUBExcel. Our annual convention is always a learning experience, with some time for fun and downtime. From March 8-10, in New Orleans, make sure you register and sign up now. We’re just over a month away! The deadline to reserve your hotel room at the block rate is February 10th.
5. We had a Think Tank meeting in Baton Rouge last week. Over 30 people came together to discuss how to continue to grow and address our members’ needs. While we’re still discussing which topics to tackle this year, I was truly impressed with the ideas, discussions, and energy our members have.
6. I’m pumped about our new alliance with the National Association of Surety Bond Producers. We’ve been buddies for quite a while, but now we’ll be sharing a lot more information and coordination to make construction better. Check out the news here.

As winter blasts, tornadoes, blizzards, rain,  and wind whip up around us, be prepared. Put your Scout hat on and make sure your batteries are charged, safety equipment checked, and everyone is safe.

Talk to you all again in February – and remember – Register for SUBExcel!