Paving the Way for a New Generation of Industry Leaders: Reflections from the PCA Expo in Albuquerque,

There's a refreshed spirit, a renewed energy, and a revived intent to put collaboration over competition coming from a 138-year-old organization. "Tradition" and "renewed" don't quite go together, but in the case of the Painting Contractors Association (PCA) (founded in 1884), it's happening, and a transformation is occurring right before our eyes. Pulling from the foundations of tradition and combining it with a new appeal destined for a changing industry.?

NOVO is 10 years old, I've worked professionally in the industry for the last 17 years, and I've washed brushes and rollers for the better part of 35 years. I'm witnessing the transformation of a very traditional industry into one that has energized me, left my team enthusiastic, and feeling part of a larger community of not just craftsmen, but craftswomen, business professionals, entrepreneurs, and new entry level painters wide eyed for the opportunity. This was even more evident this year at the annual Painting Contractors Association Expo in Albuquerque, NM. The negative stigma of the "ole boy" club is gone and a renewed energy is evident throughout all members from legacy to new.

Tyran Palea Penina R. and I went down to soak in the experience and spend a few days learning, growing, building supportive relationships and getting excited for the year ahead. We saw old friends, connected with new ones and finally met those we've only known through Instagram. Seattle contractors always show up strong. It's always great to build rapport, strengthen relationships and put competition aside for a minute and represent Seattle together. Although we're competitors and often bid against each other, their was a willingness to share, be vulnerable and support each other's success. I was especially thrown back by the willingness of some of the Seattle veteran leaders to genuinely embrace us. I'm truly grateful for their mentorship and support.

The PCA organization and board of directors have done a fantastic job to adjust to the changing times and refresh a traditional industry that once felt a little closed off. It's one that embraces collaboration over competition, is inclusive of new comers in the field as well as in management positions, and supports making positive impacts in our communities. There really has been a transition over the last few years but for some reason, this Expo felt pivotal.

Looking ahead, I'm excited for what's to come from the PCA under the helm of past Chair Jason Paris and incoming Chair Nick Slavik . They've both done a tremendous service to the industry continuously over the years with their tireless commitment to professionalizing the industry. Their work, along with that of the PCA, have created countless opportunities for up and coming contractors and paved their way to success.

Thank you to the PCA team who have committed to pushing our industry forward.

If you're a local contractor in our area and exploring the benefits of PCA, please reach out and connect!

Membership: https://www.pcapainted.org/membership/

Friends & Connections:

PNW

Lewis Johnson , Craig Vialle , Annie Newton ProfitWorks Bill Curtindale , Mike Barrett , Pro Paint Solutions , Matt Brubaker , Andrei Danu PAINTZONE LLC Paintmaster Services Inc. Josh Stillings , Jeff Dupont Sound Painting Solutions, LLC , Townhouse Painters

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Battle Born Painting , Jason Phillips Phillips Home Improvements , Gina Koert Shamrock Painting/ Bell SPI , Dave Scaturro , Alpine Painting and Sandblasting Contractors , Adam Roe Adam Roe Painting, Inc. Erin Scheel , Calvin Pate , Ray Reza Rahni Paint Track Painting Services Molson Decorating, Silver Elite Painting , Nigel Costolloe , Andrew Dwyer , Emily Howard , Chad Schirmer ,