As the crisp October air rolls in, I find myself reflecting on the incredible energy and passion that still lingers after this year’s SUBExcel convention. Every conversation, every handshake, and every session reinforced what makes ASA truly special — our people. The spirit of collaboration and the drive to lift each other higher are what keep our industry moving forward, even in challenging times.

At SUBExcel, we were reminded that success doesn’t happen in isolation — it’s built through shared knowledge, best practices, and the willingness to evolve together. That spirit is at the core of what ASA is doing right now.

This month, we’re taking another exciting step toward strengthening our member benefits. We’re launching a finance-focused curriculum designed to help members better navigate today’s economic challenges — from tariffs and payroll complexities to taxes, audits, and financial planning. These 60-minute webinars will be led by experts from within our own ASA community and offered at no cost to members.

We’re now seeking CPA professionals and financially focused members who are ready to step up and share their knowledge. If you or someone you know would like to lead one of these sessions, please reach out to Mary Klett at mklett@asa-hq.com for more information. Together, we can make this an invaluable new resource for our members nationwide.

And remember – ASA members can take advantage of exclusive savings through member-only benefit programs designed to support both business and personal needs. These include access to comprehensive healthcare options with competitive group rates, ensuring affordable coverage. Members also enjoy valuable discounts on shipping through UPS, offering reduced rates on domestic and international deliveries. In addition, the ODP (Office Depot/OfficeMax) program provides significant savings on office supplies, furniture, and printing services. Discover all of the ASAdvantage benefits that help members save money, streamline operations, and enhance overall business efficiency.

This issue of The Contractor’s Compass focuses on best practices — and it couldn’t come at a better time. Whether you’re adapting to shifting tariffs, refining your payroll systems, preparing for audits, or finding fresh ways to market your business, I encourage you to dig into these articles. You’ll find insights, tips, and “gold nuggets” that can make a real difference in your daily operations. And remember – this publication is free to members and non-members alike. Spread the word, encourage others to subscribe.

As we look ahead, I’m filled with optimism for what’s next. ASA continues to grow stronger because of members like you — professionals who care deeply about doing things the right way and helping others succeed along the way.

Thank you for being part of this incredible association. Let’s keep the momentum from SUBExcel going strong through the end of the year!

Warm regards,

Andrew V. Christ
ASA President ‘25/’26