By Jim Keller, AAM
The past two months have been incredibly busy. And incredible. November began with the Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS), ASA's annual Mechanical Division convention. This was followed at month's end with the International Autobody Congress and Exposition (NACE), the world's largest collision repair event.
CARS was tremendous by every measure. “Servicing the Machine of 2015” was the title of the keynote presentation by Steve Ford. This theme was carried throughout the show as attendees were exposed to technologies that are just now emerging or soon will be. There were 10 technical courses, the most ever offered at CARS, featuring the best instructors in the nation.
If you've never been to NACE, there's no way to really explain it in writing. It's everything: technical and management education; a huge exhibition with more than 2,000 booths displaying products and services; live product demonstrations; industry seminars; keynote addresses from such leaders as Jack Smith, chairman of General Motors Corp.; and top professional entertainment.
I would like to recognize CARS 2001 Chairman John Francis and NACE 2001 Chairman Chris Dameron for their leadership in these events; ASA's Collision Division and Mechanical Division operations committees for their contributions; the staff at Hanley-Wood Exhibitions for their effort producing NACE; the exhibitors and sponsors who support these events; the entire ASA staff for their great effort producing CARS and assisting with NACE; and most importantly, the mechanical and collision industry members who attend these events, whose support ensures the successful continuation of these two important industry events.
CARS and NACE elevate the professionalism of all who participate. You don't have to be an ASA member to attend. But, they are ASA-sponsored events so members enjoy discounted registrations. Having attended many conventions, I can say both just keep getting better. There are so many things to learn at CARS and NACE that every minute and dollar you spend are time and money very well spent.
Now that we're at the beginning of 2002, flip your calendar to November and December and make plans to attend CARS in Las Vegas Nov. 7-9 or NACE in Dallas Dec. 5-8. (While you have your calendar out, you might as well mark the ASA Annual Convention, April 8-13, in Arlington, Va.) It's never too early to plan for something this important.
Looking forward, I am excited about the challenges facing our industry. After attending CARS and NACE, I realize we are crossing a significant line in the technology continuum. As a shareholder in ASA, you may be certain your association is involved in this technological explosion. We are in dialogues with manufacturers, regulators and others who are driving much of the advancement. In turn, we are bringing new knowledge to you - particularly through events such as CARS and NACE. It has never been more important for you to be an ASA member and take part in association events.
