Ditchmen • NUCA of Florida Ditchmen - June 2022 | Page 5

President ’ s Message

Now in hurricane season with summer knocking at the door , we Floridians need to be especially vigilant . In addition to the seasonal concerns , as an industry we are battling a slowing housing market , rising interest rates , record high fuel costs , 40-year record inflation , and we continue to encounter unprecedented material shortages and inordinate lead times . At NUCA of Florida , as an organization , we exist to get into the politics and policies that will ease our members ‘ governmental obstacles to success and create and influence industryfriendly policy written into law . Lobbying . That is the biggest reason for existence and responsibility at NUCA of Florida .
The state conference is the largest fundraiser of the year for NUCA of Florida and it will occur July 21st through the 23rd at Opal Grand Oceanside Resort in Delray Beach . Sponsorships and attendees are not only appreciated but needed . This conference is an opportunity to learn more about the infrastructure bill , industry trends , overcoming workforce challenges , dealing with material shortages and lead times , networking , and seeing firsthand the latest in underground utility products from our vendors and exhibitors . Most importantly however , it will be an opportunity for you , our members , to get an idea of the candidates and campaigns that will influence our industry in next year ’ s legislative session .
My challenge to all who are reading this is the following : if you have never been , please attend and see how we can improve the industry and your business directly ; if you have been , I hope to see you there ; and lastly , to all who are going , make it a goal to bring at least one member who has never attended . Our six local chapters in Florida are some of the strongest in the nation thanks to the member participation , the dedicated board members , the events they host , but especially because of the dedicated executive directors that lead and organize the chapters . I ask that all bring that enthusiasm to the State level , especially the 2022 Annual Conference .
The future economic outlook is uncertain but certain to change from what we have seen the past 24 months . I ’ m sure it ’ s changed since writing this message to you . Being a part of this organization and participating in this event are key to making sure your business stays in front of these changes and continues to see success . Without successful businesses and members our organization will falter . I for one am looking forward to seeing many of you in the coming weeks and discussing ways we can continue to improve the future of our industry and our members success .
Clark Cryer , President NUCA of Florida
JUNE 2022 • DITCHMEN 3