Fall 2005                    return to newsletter contents page

Networking Opportunities Bring Us Together

Chris Horton

FPPA President

Greetings FPPA members and supporters,

It was a pleasure seeing many of you at last month’s Management Workshop in Washington, DC. Our group gained some insight on such topics as Lean Manufacturing, RFID and Creating a Business-Literate Workforce – all issues that our companies are, or should be, evaluating for our own competitive edge. Most valuable, as always, was the open exchange that was generated during the Industry Panel as

representatives from Trinity Graphic USA, Mark/Trece and Midwest Graphics joined me to discuss the issues that keep us awake at night.

The networking that took place at the recent Management Workshop is exactly what brought many of us together 8 years ago to form FPPA, and it continues to be what drives this organization.

Within the next few weeks you will be receiving promotional materials for the 9^th Annual Convention, being held March 12-14, 2006 in Amelia Island, Florida. I look forward to continuing the conversations and discussions that were started last month in Washington.

There are a number of NEW programs being added to this year’s convention program, including a Supplier of the Year Award, and a testing program that compares the leading plate materials in the industry with a scientific analysis of many factors. As competitive as the market has become, none of us can afford to miss this event – an opportunity to hear what your competitors are doing; learn what your customers are looking for; and talk to your suppliers about what they can be doing to help your business.

In the coming months we’ll be looking for leaders who want to step up to the plate and take an active role in the Association. If you’re interested in serving on the Board or chairing a Committee, we can use your talent and energy. Send in the Call for Volunteers form included in this newsletter to express your interest in volunteering your time to help the FPPA continue to grow and prosper. 

Please contact me with any comments or suggestions you may have, 336-855-4862 or chris.horton@alcoa.com.  Thank you for your support.  Have a safe and happy holiday season.

Chris Horton