message from the chair

In the last issue, I mentioned the unique industry we’re in and how the success of others directly impacts the success of our own business. ASTRA’s mission to Elevate, Engage, & Promote its membership is an integral part of all of us succeeding together. We’re approaching Marketplace & Academy in Columbus, and will get to experience and learn together in this setting.

One thing I always get excited about at M&A are the awards. The Excellence Awards and Play Awards are unique in that the recipients are selected by their colleagues and peers. It’s the definition of succeeding together as competitors and partners recognize organizations and people for their success and achievements in our wonderful industry. When you receive this issue, if there is still an opportunity, be sure to nominate and vote for these awards. We all have colleagues that we feel deserve recognition and this is the best platform in the industry for recognition because it’s peer based.

I urge everyone to pay close attention to these awards and who receives them. Every year I seek out the winners to congratulate them and then to learn from them. I ask questions about their successes in the hopes that it can help better what I do in this industry. Every winner I’ve spoken to embodies the ASTRA community and is eager to help and answer questions. Introduce yourself to these key members and expand your network. It’s these awards that help Elevate and Promote our membership and it’s up to us to Engage with the community.

At Marketplace & Academy, be sure to take advantage of everything that ASTRA has to offer. Between the education sessions, networking events, the lip sync battle, awards, the tradeshow and more, there is opportunity to both have fun and grow professionally. I look forward to seeing you all there!

T.J. Simmons, Vice President of Sales at Thin Air Brands and ASTRA Board Chair