World Fence News

12 • march 2020 • world fence news What attracted me to work in the fencing industry way back in 1995 was the feeling of pride and integrity I got from my first client, Joe Miller of Miller Fence Company in Worcester, Mass. This feeling was reinforced a few weeks later when I attended a meeting of the Northeast Chapter of AFA and met even more fine, hard-working and honest people. I have found fencers, for the most part, to be among the finest group of people I have ever met. That being said, in spite of all the good people in fencing in the past, I have also no- ticed the industry has been hampered by a few less-than- scrupulous busi- ness practices, including unlicensed, underinsured, poorly educated and sometimes even unqualified fencing contractors, as well as a few vendors who sometimes don't care who they sell to, as long as they have money to pay. These practices have contributed to fragmenting and undervaluing an industry that at times seems to solely support the concept of "every man (or woman) for themselves." While I hold in high regard the bulk of fencers and I feel as an in- dustry much progress has been made over the past few decades, there is still much more to be done. Although many of you may feel this categorization of our industry to be a little harsh, and possibly you are correct, but in my view we need to be vigilant to protect our collective repu- tations. Without adherence to a strict policy of supply chain economy, and lacking the all-important recognition of licensed trade status in the con- struction industry, this can make pro- fessionalism in fencing a difficult task. But we must continue our fight for professionalism. If this indus- try is to truly de- velop and improve as a professional "trade" like elec- tricians, welders or plumbers, we must eliminate the petty bickering and shortsighted attitude of "give me a buck today and who cares about the future," and work together for a better way of life for everyone in the industry, manufacturers, distribu- tors and contractors alike. I cannot even count how many times I have pleaded with whoever will listen to take pride in your work, your trade and your companies, and to raise the bar of professionalism to a new high where the fencing industry can finally take its place with the other professional trades in the construction industry – A profession worthy of a fair day's wage for a fair day's work, not hours and hours of endless toil with little gain under which so many fencing contractors and vendors now labor. And my friends, the operative words here are "pride and profession- alism." This concept of true profession- alism in fencing is an underpinning component of the "Culture of Suc- cess" of which I have been such a strong proponent. I pray this higher level of profes- sionalism can permeate into the fence culture and elevate the fencing experi- ence across America. Actually, it is even more than just a positive attitude in the work place, although that is a fundamental com- ponent of developing a culture of success. It is a more like a profound lifestyle change that potentially can deliver an uplifting and happier state of mind at work and in life in general. With that in mind, let's take a seri- ous look at fencing as a "trade or pro- fession." Plumbers, electricians, carpen- ters, general contractors and others all work for, in most cases, a very good wage and make a substantial living. Pride and professionalism lead to success! by tom luby, profit builders international continued on page 14 This concept of true professional- ism in fencing is an underpinning component of the "Culture of Success" of which I have been such a strong proponent. Fence and access control Industry supplIers, get a direct line to the decision makers in the business by advertising in the pages of World Fence News and The Fencer's Almanac. Contact Rick Henderson at editor@worldfencenews.com ULINE BRAND. ULINE QUALITY. OVER 37,500 ITEMS ALWAYS IN STOCK ORDER BY 6 PM FOR SAME DAY SHIPPING COMPLETE CATALOG 1-800-295-5510 uline.com Tie-Downs

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