COMMUNICATION IS KEY

Lori Heideman – Vice President

The past three months I have been traveling around Wisconsin attending many county and club meetings. Sometimes, I feel we have a communication break down between the AWSC and our members, so I took it upon myself to travel to these meetings to sit down face-to-face. Generally, we see our director and reps four times a year and AWSC members at our yearly convention and workshop. Other than that, we may never see the rest of our membership – the exact reason why I hit the road to attend these meetings.

Running For Awsc President

My tour was a very eye-opening experience. I have been welcomed at every meeting and have answered many questions regarding the AWSC, as well as clearing up some misconceptions. Through this experience, I have actually learned more about myself and my extensive knowledge about our AWSC program. One of my takeaways was learning many people have no idea what the AWSC stands for, or even does for them as members. Through these meetings, I have decided to run for president of the AWSC with one of my goals to continue educating at these meetings and talk to as many members as I can.

My Intent And Who I Am

My intention is not about giving an AWSC report to the clubs, that is your director or rep’s job. My intention is to talk to, and answer questions about the AWSC. As I am running for AWSC president this spring, I want people to know who I am and what I stand for.

Everyone hears me talk about my favorite subjects at meetings, but few people know why these are my favorite. I want people to be comfortable enough to stop and talk to me, whether that is out on the trail or at a workshop.

My Involvement

I have been involved in the AWSC for a very long time. And as the vice president for the past 9 years, I feel I have learned Wisconsin’s organized snowmobiling program as well as anyone. I attribute this knowledge to those who were mentors in the many years I have been involved in the AWSC. And as I travel around talking about our program, my confidence has grown. Wisconsin has a great program and that is thanks to the leaders before us.

Communication Is Key

Success within any organization relies on successful communication. Think about the old game of “telephone.” A message may start at the county level, but by the time it gets to the club level, part of the message is missing and the correct information spread through the channel breaks down further. The AWSC tries really hard to get our messages out and minimize misconceptions, including through the use of these Wisconsin Snowmobile News pages, but we know every member may not read it. We need to keep the lines of communication clear so the sport of snowmobiling in Wisconsin remains healthy.

I plan on traveling to many more club and county meetings as I believe that communication is key. If you would like me to attend, all you have to do is ask. If I have the date and time open, I will attend. See you on the trails!