IDA Universal

BRUNO MONTESANO President HUMILITY &HONOR ese are the words that best describe the feelings I am experiencing since being appointed President of the Association… Your Associ- ation! To be part of an association that has been in existence for over 60 years isn't lost on me. Men and women have built this organization in an era where doing business in this industry was much different than it is today, and it is up to us – the current membership – to keep it alive and strong and see it evolve in a time where business strategies, world markets and technolo- gy are rapidly changing. We must honor the legacy of the people who built IDA and make sure we adapt to the current times. Since being a member of IDA, I have seen many Pres- idents steer the ship through the years and where some "storms" like the 2008 financial crisis and the pandemic in 2020, and these "captains" kept us afloat. Not always taking the easy decisions but making sure we weathered the storm and made it through. And we did! I am humbled to walk in the footsteps of these men who have led the association since its beginnings and having been an IDA board member under presidents like Bob Creighton, Paul Bonovich and my friend, Lance Hinrichsen. All people who I look up to. I cannot thank Lance enough for being our leader for the last few years during what I believe were the toughest years for IDA. He was the rock that kept us all grounded. I also feel a certain level of pride knowing that I am the third Canadian to hold this position since Joe Amato and Bob Creighton. ese people inspire me to do the very best I can for the IDA and to ensure its longevity. Of course, the same ques- tions arise every time new leadership takes charge: What is IDA? What are the advantages of IDA? What does IDA do for me? How do I benefit form IDA? I have been putting some thought into finding some of these answers, and I don't think a simple answer will suffice. I think IDA is what you want it to be… If you invest yourself, participate, take action, and take part in the activities offered, you will find some of these answers. When are in invest- ed in being a member, you have the benefit of making new connections, finding a partner for your business, a future customer or supplier, and share experiences with like-minded individuals who share your struggles and will celebrate your little victo- ries and success stories. We don't value enough of the networking possibilities the IDA brings to its members. Let me ask you this, what other associations do you or your company belong to where you have made lifelong connections and even friend- ships? I know that for myself, IDA is the only one. You? I always look forward to the next convention, so I can see these friends and con- nections that I do not reach out to enough. People who have interesting facts to share about their realities and challenges from everwhere around the globe. We aren't a huge group, but we are a great group with common goals of making sure the aermarket industry remains strong. I know I want to be part of that. And you? Do you want to be part of that? e Philadelphia conven- tion was a successful one from the perspective of meeting new people, seeing old acquaintances, discussing with long time members and getting to hear some great speakers and participating in the various sessions. We shared a few meals and some drinks and had many laughs. I want to be part of that experience, and I truly hope you do to. Never forget the Associa- tion is yours and you'll get out of it what you put into it. Looking forward to our next time together. I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank the dedicated people who have signed on to be Board members for the next few years. Buckle up, we have lots to do. Be well and keep your eye on the ball! Bruno PRESIDENT'S POST THANK YOU TO OUR PLATINUM SPONSER IDA Universal November-December 2024 6

• Cover