3 minute read
Letter from the 2022-2023 President
September 2023
Serving as the 2022-2023 President of IPLOCA has undoubtedly been one of the highlights of my career. I have had the pleasure over the course of my involvement with IPLOCA to make many lifelong friends, cultivate numerous business connections, and increase my knowledge of HSE, CSR and Novel Construction techniques from IPLOCA’s commitment to these topics.
After an amazing convention in Prague, during which I presented the objectives for my term, the Board of Directors met in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, in December 2022 to begin the implementation of those goals and initiatives. We conducted a well-attended Regional Meeting, hosted by our Past President Gonzalo Montenegro, and put into motion a plan to execute those goals and initiatives.
During the March 2023 Board of Directors’ Meeting in Melbourne, Australia, we held another productive Regional Meeting. During that Board of Directors Meeting the Executive Committee presented for approval Georges Hage as the next Executive Secretary of IPLOCA. I would like to thank the Executive Committee for the numerous hours of interviews, discussions, and evaluations that were put into this important selection. Our current Executive Secretary, Juan Arzuaga, will be retiring at the end of 2023.
During the June 2023 Board of Directors’ Meeting in Lisbon, Portugal, the Executive Committee discussed a transition plan which would allow the new Executive Secretary to work alongside Juan to ensure that as much of Juan’s experience as possible would be passed on to Georges.
During the year, IPLOCA’s HSE & CSR, Innovation, Energy Transition, Membership, and Convention & Board Meeting Location Committees met numerous times to provide our members with the best information and service possible. The time and effort put into each of those committees is greatly appreciated.
The IPLOCA Scholarship Programme awarded 10 scholarships to young people all over the world. We received over 70 applications and feel that those selected represent the best and brightest of their generation. We have a plan in place to continue this important programme, thereby aiding young people in the future.
I would like to thank the staff of IPLOCA for their tireless efforts in supporting the members. From planning our conventions, to the numerous events throughout the year, maintaining and updating the website, the work they do is truly amazing.
I also want to extend my appreciation to the Board of Directors who guide this amazing organization. The sacrifices that you have made this year have not gone unnoticed. The time, effort, and financial commitment that each of you put into this association demonstrates your desire to improve this organization and industry.
I look forward to seeing everyone next year at the 56th Annual Convention in Sorrento, Italy, from 9 to 13 September 2024. It will be a special event, so put it on your calendar today.
I wish you and your families good health, prosperity, and good times in the year to come.
