With BCMC 2025 in the rearview mirror, I’d like to give a hearty Thank You to everyone who was able to connect with me in Omaha. From my perspective, it was a terrific show with ample opportunities to talk about this industry we’ve chosen. Seeing everyone face to face is always a good reminder of the many friends and colleagues we are privileged to know.
Especially if you were unable to attend, be sure to check out the many articles in this month’s issue that provide highlights from the show. We have recaps and updates from Glenn Traylor (page 23), Spida (page x29x), MiTek (page 38), Simpson Strong-Tie (page 45), LimTek (page 50), Triad/Merrick Machine (page 58), Stiles Machinery (page 65), Vekta (page 73), and Paragon (page 78). I had a fascinating conversation at the Safe Arbor booth, so I’ve included a story on it too (page 84). Most importantly though, we have a remembrance for someone who was missing from his company’s booth, Jason Schulz of Clark Industries (page 17).
The Struggles on Our Journey
I would also like to give an extra note of thanks to those who enquired about my sister’s passing. Although I would have gladly missed another BCMC to be with her for chemo or any of her hospitalizations for complications from fighting ovarian cancer, my “road trip partner” was with me in spirit at the show. Thanks for the caring and compassion.
Looking Forward to 2026
Last but not least, please excuse me if/when I see you again next year and do not immediately connect a name to a face! I am definitely out of practice and am certain some names will escape me. I should be okay with the friends I have known for decades, such as Ben Hershey shown here [See PDF or View in Full Issue], but I may be challenged with the many new friends I hope to see again. But, embarrassment from forgetting a few names will not stop me from attending BCMC 2026 in Columbus. We’ll all be another year older, possibly another year wiser, and still an active part of this vibrant industry we call home.