top of page
Writer's pictureDRMA

I'VE BEEN THINKING . . . 4/11/19

Posted By Angelia Erbaugh, DRMA, Tuesday, April 16, 2019

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DRMA!!!  This month we are celebrating our 85th birthday!  Contrary to what you may think, I have NOT been at the helm for all 85 years (close, but not quite).  We have accomplished great things over our 85-year history, and we have a lot more to accomplish!  Thanks to each of you for helping move manufacturing forward through DRMA!


Peer-to-peer connectivity . . . this is part of what members expect from local industry association.  DRMA provides many ways for members to connect with the thriving DRMA community in order to build a network of peers who face the same challenges, opportunities, and solutions and to foster a sense of mutual support among members.


One way to connect is by meeting your peers at association-sponsored events and Meet Ups.  We offer a number of formats so that you can select those that fit your style, location, and schedule:

· Happy Hours are held at member sites throughout the region for a couple of hours after work.  Hosts provide great munchies (and often complimentary adult beverages!) in this casual, open house style atmosphere.  Drop in, drop out as your schedule allows.  No need to feel intimidated; we’ll take good care of you.  You’ll love it!  The next Happy Hour is on April 30 at Huntington Bank downtown Dayton. Register here.

  • Breakfasts with DRMA are for you early birds . . . they are held from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on a topic pertinent to manufacturers.

  • Meet Ups . . . these are small group dialogue sessions organized around a topic area; they are designed to connect members with other members who are interested in that topic so that you can share and learn from each other.  These have become really popular; check them out!  They are FREE and for MEMBERS ONLY.

  • Check out these and other events on our website.

  • Another way to connect with other members is through volunteering . . .  you probably know that DRMA accomplishes its goals through the efforts of volunteers and staff.  But why should YOU volunteer?  What’s in it for you?  According to the American Society for Association Executives . . .

  • 86% of hiring managers in the country’s largest companies recently cited involvement in industry or trade associations as somewhat or very beneficial to an employee's career

  • Companies value employees who proactively seek opportunities to develop their skills and expertise

  • Participation in professional associations is an effective way to learn of new industry developments and network with others in the field

  • Taking an active role by volunteering for committees, writing articles for association publications, and delivering presentations allows employees to strengthen their leadership abilities, interpersonal skills, and business acumen.

Volunteering . . . promotes personal growth and self-esteem; strengthens the community; teaches you a lot; gives you a chance to give back; encourages civic responsibility; and provides you a way to make a difference.  Want to find out more about volunteering at DRMA?  Contact me.


Wow – Brian Beaulieu hit it out of the park again! Those who attended know 1) how many jobs in manufacturing are open right now across the country; and 2) the year in which we are going to experience our next recession. Let’s have a little fun . . . email me your answers, and I’ll give you kudos in my next article!


Hey members, we have a new program! A Lean Manufacturing Workshop Series, conducted in partnership with the Workforce Division of Sinclair College and FASTLANE!  You’ll learn how to implement lean concepts and techniques to make improvements to your operations.  The first of four sessions, Lean 101 Overview, is on May 1. The price is CHEAP at just $250 per session or $800 if registered for all four sessions.  BUT WAIT!  The price is STUPID CHEAP for Manufacturer members . . . you get a $100 per person discount (compliments of FASTLANE).  That’s just $150 per session or $400 for all four!  AND you get a free, on-site lean assessment provided by FASTLANE (for Manufacturer members).  The registration form can be found here.  To register your employees, please return the registration form and payment information to Shay.


DRMA wants to help you retain your emerging talent.  That is why our Young Professionals Committee has collaborated with the University of Dayton’s Center for Leadership to offer a series of Professional Development workshops to give your staff the opportunity to connect as well as earn a DRMA professional development certificate!  Course descriptions and registration form can be found here.  Act now! The second course is on May 2, titled “Going from Peer to Supervisor.”  To register your employees, please return the registration form and payment information to Kayla.


After receiving input from exhibitors and attendees, the DRMA Board of Trustees made the difficult decision to suspend AMTS 2019.  We’re looking forward to working with members to explore opportunities that will bring more value to all members.  If you would like to help, let me know.

Looking to get your name in front of 200 golfers at our July golf outing?  We are seeking sponsors!  Proceeds go to the DRMA Foundation which funds our career awareness initiatives, a VERY WORTHY CAUSE!  Contact Kristen for a list of sponsorships available this year.


Make it easier on yourself to find skilled workers in a couple of years.  If your facility shows well, host an open house on MFG Day 2019 on October 4 to show students, educators, and parents the great occupations and careers your company offers.  Interested?  Let me know.


You know that you can get a HUGE discount off your workers’ comp premium by being part of a group. Do you know that you have to pay dues to the organization that sponsors the group?  And since you already pay dues to DRMA, why not get a quote for the DRMA workers’ comp group?  Contact Shay who will connect you with CareWorks Comp, the administrator of our group. They will get you a no-obligation quote.


Save money with your DRMA membership: Our Legal Services Plan offers members one FREE legal consultation per month with employment law attorney Bob Dunlevey at Taft/Law. Simply identify yourself as a DRMA member when you call (937-641-1743).


Thanks for choosing to be a member!  I REALLY appreciate it!  And, thanks so much to you members who adjusted up the amount of dues you paid this year based on your current number of employees.  The honor system works!

Comments


bottom of page