VALVE MAGAZINE Winter 2024

Q&A WITH VMA CHAIRMAN

VM Any other pressing issues in the valve industry? AD I think that in addition to regulations like those above, the current geopolitical environment presents small- to medium-sized companies with a very difficult compliance picture. We can help as an industry group to educate and point them in the right direction. And we’ve already talked about attracting good, diverse talent. By making the industry more visible, we can help our membership recruit and retain a growing workforce. VM How do you hope to focus your efforts as a leader of VMA? AD The work of the past several boards has moved us forward and positioned the association to be relevant and

VM What advice would you have for those entering the valve industry — either as a recent graduate or a mid-ca reer professional? AD The valve industry is one of the most diverse areas where you can work. We touch so many aspects of daily life that it truly represents a great way to get to touch so many different industries and see some much new tech nology and opportunity. There is never a dull moment when someone comes in and asks you about a new appli cation. It’s also not just technical, there are opportuni ties for all different backgrounds whether your interests are in marketing, sales, operations and even finance.

valuable to our members. We will keep on that track but also increase our efforts to recruit and retain our membership. We need to find a way to attract all of the relevant companies to join us and add to the voices driving the programs mentioned above. VM What advice would you give to someone joining VMA? AD Get involved! We have many committees in addition to what we have already covered, technical and education, to name some. The associ ation is only as good as the members make it and that takes getting involved. VM On a more personal note, your challenging job must keep you busy. What do you do when you’re not wearing your business hat? AD My wife Holly and I love to travel and experience new places and food. Cooking and wine are high on the list. Lately, that has included many trips between our two grand sons, one in Boston and one right near VMA headquarters in Alexandria. Being in New Jersey puts us halfway between the two! Outside of that, we love to spend time on Cape Cod where I can golf and Holly can spend time on the beach. We always meet up at the beach bar to figure out what we are going to do for dinner.

33

VALVE MAGAZINE

WINTER 2024