IPFA CORNER

As a plastics fabricator, we face many challenges in running a successful business. From keeping up on fabricating techniques to managing our businesses in an information driven economy, we must wear many hats. One of the goals of the International Plastics Fabricators Association (IPFA) is to help you balance your varied responsibilities to run a more competitive and profitable business.

In order to help you achieve that goal, the IPFA is currently developing the agendas for four regional workshops. Scheduled to begin in the spring of 2001, the workshops will address a variety of topics including machining, welding, thermoforming, finishing, safety, and business management and marketing. We welcome your input regarding all aspect of your business for these workshops. In fact, in a survey we conducted prior to our launch, many fabricators ranked marketing their business and general management practices as high as their desire for information on fabricating technique and new machinery and tooling.

Our growing Association needs your support. As an incentive to get more of you involved, we would like to take this opportunity to announce our new rates for 2001. Regular membership is now available for only $270 for those whose primary business is the fabrication of plastic stock shapes. Associate membership is available to those allied to the field of plastics fabrication for only $435. For more information, see our ad on page 51 of this issue or visit our website at www.fabricators.org. The Association is also developing an enhanced mix of member benefits from vendor relationships to insurance programs. Watch our site for news on these new exclusive member services later this year.

You can make a difference. Take an active role in the success of your business by joining the IPFA today. The Association is also looking for members who would like to get involved in helping shape the future of our Association and our industry.

Chris Elfering is the Sales Manager for Piper Plastics, Inc., Libertyville, IL, and the President of the International Plastics Fabricators Association. His background includes hands-on plastic fabrication as well as sales, purchasing, engineering and office management. He can be reached through the IPFA at 630-980-4740.

For more information, contact John Kasper, IPFA Executive Director, at 630-980-4740.