MITA Family and Friends –
With significant mixed emotions I write this letter, not only to you the membership of MITA, but also to all the folks who are involved with our great association, including the entire team at MITA and the many other trade partners and organizations with which we work on a regular basis. After nearly 30 years of working aggressively to represent an industry that I truly care for and cherish, it is time for me to move on and explore new challenges on or before December 31, 2021.
My goal had always been to leave on a high note. And, at this moment, industry funding is at an all-time high and infrastructure in general is now a part of everyday conversation…. our efforts are being recognized at all levels. I have led your association to a point where MITA is now a well-respected, literal household name across the state with a team of professionals who will continue to represent the industry with a very high level of service. Your organization currently has zero debt, minimal liabilities, significant investments held in reserve and a budget that is flourishing. I am leaving MITA and your industry in an excellent position.
I took on the role of passionately representing your industry in a way that I hope was respected and clearly understood. As with every industry, we have had our challenges over the years, but I am walking away with my head held high that I worked through even the toughest days with honesty and integrity, while at the same time, assertively fighting for your industry.
Over the years, I have had people ask me what I do for a living and my response has always been that I work with contractors, union representatives, bureaucrats, and elected officials. I often get quite a reaction from that because very few jobs include a mix of that many different personalities, but I have truly enjoyed my role and the opportunities that it has afforded me and my family. I have certainly crossed paths with some very strong and unique personalities over the years, but I have also had the pleasure of working with a multitude of wonderful individuals, many of whom I consider to be friends.
I have literally only received paychecks from three different companies since graduating from Michigan State in 1990, Builders Exchange of Lansing, AUC and MITA, so this is certainly a move that is outside my comfort zone, but it is something that I must do while I still have a few good years left to give. However, my mobile phone number will remain the same, so feel free to reach out to me for any reason whatsoever.
And so, after all this time, instead of a bunch of fanfare and going on and on about my memories, I have humbly decided to do this my way, with a short and simple thank you to all of you who have encouraged me, supported me, and worked with me along the way.
Take care and be well!
