What does the 50 person turnout at this year’s BCMC 5k run/walk say about our 50+ year old industry? Are we more fit, or just more conscious of the value of fitness? Or, are we just being social, enjoying the company of friends, and following the BCMC agenda? Going back to our first...

Many people have commented on the great articles Carl Schoening has contributed to this magazine. Because we don’t have his reflections on industry leaders in this issue, I’ve decided to contribute some of my own. While I am the first person to say “I’m no Carl...

Yes, it’s true, I have not been in attendance at many BCMC shows. But over the years, I’ve been involved with lots of them, so I know they can be a lot of work and a lot of fun. Building Community, Making Connections I remember the day that slogan came into being, because I was...

It is with a great deal of thought and careful consideration that I am thinking this may be my last story. I have enjoyed being back in this game and offering perspective. The strong, positive responses to my stories and articles is making this decision that much more difficult. First, let me...

None of us had to ask Dwight Hikel how he has multiplied his truss business even though housing starts are lower today than when he started his business. Or how he survived three periods when housing starts dropped precipitously, including the most recent drought, when many predicted the demise...

Just as important as enjoying our jobs is belonging to our workplace. That takes effort on our part, especially if we’re new employees or work remotely, like I do. Know that we have a dual purpose; to get our jobs done, of course, but also to become a partner with our associates. Like so...

We all know about the grand projects undertaken in our industry to support worthy causes and help others in need. We’re proud to report on these terrific causes and thank the chapters, companies, and individuals who contribute time, materials, and cash. But the big projects aren’t...

This month I wanted to stop down again and talk about some of the great individuals who have worked in this industry. It wasn’t my idea….well, not completely. After a few of the articles I penned about some of the guys that haven’t received due recognition, I started getting a...

Recently, several people I know were asked to participate in satisfaction surveys. Though their situations differed, all of the surveys were motivated by good intentions. Even so, the results were mixed. As an outsider observing them, I’ve been struck by the things, both good and not so...

SBCA Chapters will always hold a special place in my heart and I love an opportunity to sing their praises. Well, the Truss Manufacturers Association of Texas, a.k.a. TMAT, has really done something worth praising – it just raised a bucket of money for charity! Showing Texas Pride In...