As 2017 presses forward, the first full month of our country’s new president’s term begins. We hope that Americans will rally behind him to help move our country in a positive direction. As our economy goes, so goes our industry, and all indications that I have reviewed seem to project a good year for our association members. Backlogs appear to be healthy at present, although there is some concern in parts of the country about what lies ahead.
But let me ask you: Do we ever have enough? Are we really ever comfortable? I expect the answer to both questions is “no.” We must plan for the worst and expect the best every day. I suggest we keep a close eye on all aspects of our operations. One of the lessons learned from the recent Great Recession is that many contractors did not react quickly enough to the changing economy, and many of them did not make it through rough waters. Let’s look to the future with concern but with great hope.
In the meantime, I remind you that AWCI’s Convention & INTEX Expo is right around the corner, March 26–30, at the Mandalay Bay, a luxury hotel and casino in Las Vegas. On top of the education and networking events, we have great plans this year, including a talk from Jeff Skiles, co-pilot of “The Miracle on the Hudson.” I hope you won’t miss it. You can go to www.awci.org to register. Register by Feb. 28 to receive the early bird discount.
In addition to being 2016–2017 president of the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry, Taylor is executive vice president of Liddle Bros. Contractors, Inc. in Nashville, Tenn.
