Membership Memo: Benefits of Investment and Participation in PCI in the Long Run
Posted on Thursday, May 24, 2018
Having recently attended Powder Coating 2018 in Indianapolis, the activities, sessions and benefits are still fresh in my mind. As I began to reflect and write this memo, I realized the benefits are more numerous than I initially considered.
First and foremost, Training and Education is a top priority of any association. Trends, best practice testimonials, new techniques, troubleshooting tips, market research, etc. are covered in PCI’s workshops, conferences and webinars. Ultimately, the gained knowledge is shared, stimulates new ideas, or improves a process when the attendees return to their respective companies.
In addition to training and education, PCI has a Certification program which helps companies benchmark their powder coating process and strive for better practices in the industry. This will have lasting benefits for the industry and the consumers of powder coated products.
Networking is the most obvious benefit of PCI membership. Everyone who has participated in PCI has a story of how they were introduced to someone who helped their productivity or shared a best practice that improved their business. As an added benefit, as the years go by you develop not only business relationships through networking, but also personal friendships that can last a lifetime.
PCI is heavily invested in other areas such as Advocacy & Promotion of powder coatings. They are dedicated to protecting and advancing the needs of the industry. As a member, you gain insight on where the industry is going, what headwinds we face, and what new markets are being explored for powder coatings. This insight is invaluable as we formulate our future strategy, decide what resources are needed and determine where to invest these resources.
I remember a quote from Ben Franklin, who said, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” I strongly believe that the knowledge gained from PCI membership is worth the investment and participation as we all navigate the fast-paced and competitive powder coating industry.