Change Your Words, Change Your World – A note from Shawn Miller, NADRA’s Immediate Past President:
Click The Photo to Play a Brief Video
Be sure to come back to read Shawn’s Letter
At DeckExpo Memphis in 2006 I accepted the responsibility to become a member of the board of directors. Looking back now, I realize that I had no idea what was involved but I was honored to represent you and give back to this industry that has done so much for me and my family. There were times for me early in this business where people would question the idea of a company that specialized in decks. I saw NADRA as a way to show that our industry was truly professional and a good career choice. As I look back over the past 7 years I can see that NADRA has come along way and accomplished what many thought was not possible. There has been some ups and downs with learning along the way but NADRA has truly stood on the shoulders of those before us and without the work of previous board members and the efforts of Michael and his family, NADRA would not be where it is today.
I leave you with a challenge… to say the same thing only different. Our businesses, our industry, and this association are in a position to take ourselves to a whole new level but it is up to each of you to make that happen. We need new words to reach consumers and show them the value of NADRA. Can you imagine the power we could have if the homeowner sitting across the table starts asking if you are a NADRA member or if you are selling NADRA approved products? This has always been my view of how NADRA can best help the industry and you can really see the pieces coming together…the work NADRA is doing in codes, accreditation classes, material testing, Check Your Deck, Deck for a Soldier…these are all tools that are in place and give us the words to say the same thing only different to better reach the home owner. Just think of the difference for us all if we make that happen. If you noticed in the video it really wasn’t a beautiful day…street was wet, they were wearing jackets but the message was right. It is time for NADRA to become more – not only for ourselves but for the industry as a whole and for the consumers who want more out of a contractor. The consumer who deserves to get what they paid for and are willing to pay more when they see the value. Now that you are home from Baltimore back to your families and your work I want you to answer the call like I did 7 years ago to go out and say the same thing only different…it is time to make a difference
Thank you so much for allowing me to represent you. The people I have met and the things that I have learned along the way would not have been possible without this opportunity and it has been my pleasure.
Shawn Miller
NADRA Immediate Past President
