Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/351182
world fence news • august 2014 • 35 I cannot help but think that these past years have taken a toll in our in- dustry, and some weaker companies did not make it through. Now that work is starting to come back to the industry, I am hoping that those who did survive will follow a path paved with a modicum of pride in fencing – in the products and services that you deliver. The companies that made it through the tough times probably can attribute their success in part to the good work and quality products that they sell and install. I also hope that will be reflected in an elevation in the quality of the fence installed we see from now on in our industry. The notion of pride in fencing and the elevation of fence installers to professional tradesmen, as opposed to handymen, is not a new concept; I have been nagging for something like 20 years pleading for recognition of those true professionals who really deserve it. I will continue to do so here, and in much of this article I will speak to the residential side of fencing, but that same professionalism is as applicable, or even more so, in the commercial and industrial work you do. I hope we can view the improving economy as an opportunity for a fresh new start and take a long and serious look again at fencing as a trade or pro- fession once again. Plumbers, electricians, carpen- ters, and general contractors work for, in most cases, a very good wage and make a substantial living. Try to get any one of these trades or professions to work for eight or 10 dollars an hour. Many good tradesmen can make 30 or 40 dollars an hour and sometimes even more. Why not in the fencing industry? And even more so, this is true for the owners and general managers in the fence trade, those of you who have put in your time, money – heck, your entire lives – into your fencing busi- ness. Many times, even your employees don't realize the amount of sweat and blood that the owners and operators contribute, and in many cases with too little reward. You deserve more than breaking even or making a pittance of a profit at the end of the year. You dedicated professionals need and should make a substantial profit and be able to look forward to a very comfortable retire- ment at a reasonably early age. That's what it's all about! Pride and professionalism in fencing by tom luby, president, profit builders international That being said, what do we do about the state of the industry? Can we do anything? I think so, but it will not happen overnight. We must take pride in ourselves and our industry, and educate from within and for the general public as to the level of skill and professionalism involved in the fencing trade. We must practice "value selling" our goods and services profitably, and raising the bar, if you will; improving the standards of the industry to a level of profes- sionalism that commands the phrase continued on next page CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN ACCESS CONTROL WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTION TRADE SHOW AND GOLF TOURNAMENT Friday, September 12th we are closing our offices to celebrate our 30th Anniversary with a trade show featuring all the leading manufacturers. The event will take place at our offices in Hayward, California. A courtesy lunch will be provided for attendees. All access control professionals are invited to help celebrate this 30 year milestone. The next day, Encon is hosting our 14th Annual Golf Tournament. This event is always a great way to interact with dealers, vendors and Encon employees in a fun, casual environment. Visit us at www.enconelectronics.com or call 800.782.5598 for details. Don't miss out on this great networking event! W W W . E N C O N E L E C T R O N I C S . C O M 800.782.5598 ENCON ANNIVERSARY CELEBR ATION S e p t e m b e r 1 2 - 1 3 You are invited