Tag Archives: management

What is Real Leadership?

Should You Try Something New, Keep the Old, or Just Find What Works? Ultimately in real leadership, regardless of our situation as leader, manager, supervisor, or employee, we are all looking for a return on our investment (ROI). If you invest a few moments reading this article, I guarantee you …

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Too Busy to Train?

Abandon That Attitude and Embrace Apprenticeship Training! As business in the fire sprinkler industry picks up, more contractor companies are finding themselves with a wealth of projects to tackle. Despite the fact that this is what all contractors hope for, that kind of good fortune can also come with its …

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Increasing Productivity

The Field/Office Connection What is the “secret ingredient” to ensure a successful field workforce? Is it pay, benefits, apprenticeship, mentoring, quality tools and equipment, or maybe communication? This is a question for which companies struggle to find an answer, and one that can make or break the company. Like baking …

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President’s Report: Participation

Participation. The act of taking part, sharing, and reaping the benefits of being related to a larger whole. The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) has been developing and offering worthwhile educational courses, training exercises, advocacy outreach, product awareness, and impactful networking programs for over 36 years. How fitting then, at …

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Chairman’s Message

It is time for some reflection as my two-year tenure as Chairman of AFSA comes to a close. I am grateful to the Board and the past chairs for affording me the opportunity to represent our industry and to be part of this great organization. For the past 10 years …

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Don’t Believe the Stereotypes

Don't Believe the Stereotypes

Look to the Next Generation When Recruiting Millennials are taking over the United States, and if you have seen the stereotypes that exist about our generation, this might make you a bit uneasy – but try to not judge us by our generational labels. The Millennials follow Generation X, born …

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International Women in Engineering Day

International Women in Engineering Day

Spotlight: Susan Schierwagen, Vice President for Coupling & Fire Suppression Systems at Victaulic Friday, June 23, 2017 is International Women in Engineering Day, a day that according to the Women’s Engineering Society “focuses attention on the amazing careers in engineering and technical roles for girls, and allows us to celebrate …

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