I know you’re thinking about 2023. I certainly am. My message this month is to register ASAP for SUBExcel. Yes, it’s not until March, but “early bird” pricing ends in a few weeks on December 31. 

Here’s why you need to go. 

1. As a subcontractor, we sometimes feel we’re battling the beast by ourselves. At SUBExcel, the networking is unparalleled. We get both organized and unorganized times to just vent, empathize with people who have either been through it and found a solution, going through it too, or warn those that may be about to do it. Whatever IT is. Your spirits are lifted and you don’t feel so bad about your large – or small – problems. You’re not alone. ASA past presidents, officers, and everyone’s there, willing to just chat and chill.
   
2. I got involved about six years ago with National. While the Chapters are invaluable, I can honestly say, by networking, getting to know folks outside my local network, I’ve saved more than $100K. There was a GC from TN that was starting to do work in CO. I wanted to work with them, but needed to know more. I reached out to some of the people I had met at SUBExcel, and they told me these guys were tough. Thanks to the advice I received, I covered my tush, and my business made money. Some of the other subs who did work on good faith – like we sometimes do – got burned. I tried to help some of them after the fact, but having people I could call up and get honest answers about that GC provided the insight I needed to make sure I got treated right.
   
3. In addition to the networking, the education sessions are incredible. The speakers tell it to you straight, provide time for questions, and are so open and willing to share their knowledge with us. It’s refreshing to not hear a lot of BS.
   
4. Oh yeah – I’m looking forward to the down times as well. The honky tonk and cattle drive should be a blast. Oh…and the distillery tour. I’m there. And THAT’s where you do your best networking.
   

And remember:

Please, please PLEASE, nominate your boss, your company, your chapter for the amazing work on behalf of your success. Categories include ethics, best practices, federal and state advocate, leadership, outstanding service, chapter leadership, and safety. Find out more here. Deadline is December 31.

Wherever you are, however you celebrate this special time of year, on behalf of all of us at ASA National, thank you for being a part of this association, your time and support to make it a success, and ensure a bright future for subcontractors. 

From your ASA Team,

Rusty Plowman

ASA President, 2022-23