IAEI members and associated organizations rose to the occasion to make possible the completion of a construction project at the IAEI headquarters building in Richardson, Texas.
Finishing the second floor area to create an educational facility has provided a more suitable environment in which to conduct meetings and perform training. In a previous editorial, those individuals and organizations who contributed to make this work possible were identified. I believe it is appropriate to give special recognition to one contributor who has not only risen to the challenge, but has achieved a level of support that could not have been anticipated.
Wisconsin Chapter officers and members have supported the International Office in the IAEI education program by joining with it to conduct seminars within the state of Wisconsin that benefited both the chapter and the IO. Recognizing that developing and producing quality educational material is very expensive for the IAEI International Office, the chapter board of directors chose to work directly with the IO in conducting seminars and to share the proceeds. The chapter had an option of purchasing the material from the IO and conducting those seminars on its own in order to realize a greater return, but chose not to do so. For several years the Wisconsin Chapter has conducted jointly sponsored seminars within the state, and that effort has not only been good for the chapter, but has also significantly helped the International Office. Another result of the seminar activity is the increase in chapter membership to the point that it now has the greatest number of members of any chapter in the IAEI. This model of performance is an example of what can be done when there is the determination to do so.
The Wisconsin Chapter was one of the top two contributors to the IAEI building fund for the education facility at the International Office. However, the chapter did not stop there. After learning that there were not enough funds to install audio-visual equipment in the new education facility, the chapter board of directors authorized funding for the purchase and installation of a high resolution, high lumen output LCD projector, ceiling recessed motorized screen, and supporting current technology rack mounted audio equipment. As a result of this action, quality equipment has been installed in the training room that makes it possible to present information through audio and video mediums from different sources. The system has versatility and can be used as part of the needed equipment when the IAEI is able to develop and implement a remote learning program. Those who have used the equipment and seen it in operation can attest to the value it adds to the education facility. This equipment truly enhances and supports the IAEI in delivering leading edge training information and material with the latest technology at the new training facility.
The IAEI is made stronger by the dedication and support of a multitude of people who never ask, What’s in it for me? but rather, What can I do to make the IAEI better? Every successful organization has this caliber of people who do their job well, and frequently, the extent of that work is unknown by most members.
The Wisconsin Chapter Board of Directors deserves recognition for its decision to support the IAEI education program and the leadership standards it has set. A special thanks goes to Joe Hertel, chapter secretary/treasurer, for his hard work and dedication in making sure all things came together to make the joint seminar program a success. Quality instruction and support for the latest series of seminars was made possible by dedicated IAEI professionals such as Ed Lawry, Tom Garvey, and Joe Hertel, Monte Ewing and others. This commitment and professionalism are two of the key elements of meeting IAEI’s objectives and are commendable. Thank you, officers and members of the Wisconsin chapter.
