In looking back over the last year and our collective success, it makes me extremely proud to know that we have truly Come Together to Build a Better Industry. This was the goal from day one, and everyone responded collectively to help achieve that. In this last message, I’d like to share how that happened.
The key to success is people; having the opportunity to work and connect with many of the best and brightest in our industry has been a highlight. From educational offerings and investigating new technology to embracing diversity, we have many leaders who are willing to volunteer their time, effort, and expertise for the betterment of CFMA.
In talking about how the Association could Come Together to Build a Stronger Industry, we shared three goals for the past year.
The first was to better educate ourselves. Traditionally, education is about classes and books, but its evolved into webinars and on-demand learning. Improving formal education is also a challenge, but the Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP) designation creates new opportunities and elevates your role within your organization. I’m happy to report that there were 69 new CCIFPs over the past year!
It remains my humble opinion that the best education can be found in the power of our relationships. There are simple but effective ways to develop and cultivate those powerful connections. If you’ve been in the industry for some time, find someone new and introduce yourself. As many of us know, it can be tough to jump right in as a new member. Find ways to engage, share wisdom, or simply just be a connection.
For the less experienced member, you’re here because you’re a leader in our industry. Jump in with both feet, find an experienced member, and introduce yourself.
The second goal revolved around investigating technology. For many years, construction was always deemed to be behind the curve, but times have changed — look at all the different solutions out there that can help our organizations become more efficient.
CFMA also invested in technology this year. From an educational perspective and a customer service standpoint, CFMA is in the process of improving technology delivery for members. This has been a critical mission for us, and we’re happy to report that we anticipate delivery later this year.
The last goal was to embrace diversity. The more diverse and inclusive we are, the stronger our members and CFMA can become. We have made progress, but there is still more work to be done; it’s our responsibility as leaders to make this a priority.
CFMA is committed to embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion within our Association and the industry, and our volunteer leadership and leadership pipeline are direct examples of how we have embraced our collective diversity. We need to continue to be intentional and make this a part of our everyday lives for it to truly have a long-term effect.
Along these lines of thinking, the Next Generation Task Force was created, which is composed of some of the best and brightest of the next generation of CFMA members. They are charged with helping to ensure we continue to be intentional about understanding the next generation, our commitment to collective diversity, and to embrace our different backgrounds to help future generations of members Come Together to Build a Better Industry.
In closing, it’s been an absolute honor and privilege to lead CFMA over the past year and continue to build upon the great work of many leaders before me. To help us continue to Come Together, here are two things you can do every day: show gratitude and give encouragement.
I’d like to show my gratitude by thanking you for the opportunity to lead this great Association — it’s an experience I’ll never forget — and for allowing me to encourage you in our shared goal of Building a Better Industry.
Copyright © 2023 by the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA). All rights reserved. This article first appeared in March/April 2023 CFMA Building Profits magazine.