Editor's Message: A New Perspective
Things may be a little different now, but change is inevitable and helps drive us forward!
Since I joined SBCA, I have attended several Open Quarterly Meetings (OQMs), BCMC, and other in-person events. I always learn something new, giving me more insight into the many amazing aspects of this industry. As I embark on this new journey as SBCA’s Director of Communications, and Managing Editor of SBCA Magazine, I have realized a number of things, a few of which I want to share here.
For instance, I realize I am suddenly approaching every conversation differently. I listen more intently and more intentionally. Every interaction I have, education session I attend, or committee meeting I partake in, is full of information. I am no longer mainly aiding in the behind-the-scenes of the event function, absorbing the information provided, or observing in general; I am no longer just chatting or just catching up with familiar faces at the OQM. Now, I find myself following conversations more closely, with a multitude of questions lingering in the back of my mind: Is there a story or something interesting to write about? What is happening in our industry? What are the successes? What are the pain points? Can I share this with others to provide awareness, information, insight, or knowledge? What awesome things are our members doing out there? What else can I know or learn from this conversation and experience?
While I was having interesting, enjoyable, and meaningful conversations before while embracing the networking and camaraderie our events provide, they did not usually go beyond the surface of what was said, they did not prompt follow-up questions or deeper discussions. I find great enjoyment in the different mindset this position brings me daily and as I attend these events. I find it to be exhilarating every time I have had an organic conversation that has led me to an interesting story with potential for the magazine or SBCA Industry News, or NFC Framing News.
The other thing I have noticed is that I had already laid the groundwork in my previous position that is helping me today. I’ve spent three years building relationships and making connections with the people who drive this association forward. This transition has showed me just how valuable these conversations and in-person interactions are at these events. One of the best parts is having the opportunity to continue building the relationships with the folks I’ve already met and have gotten to know over the last few years, all the while creating new relationships with people I have yet to meet or have not had the chance to talk to as much. I am looking forward to continuing this effort and being able to share what you all are doing and experiencing; this is something I am passionate about and am glad to be able to give it a voice and a platform.
I am chugging along, full steam ahead, in my new role, and loving every minute of it, enjoying the fun challenges along the way. It is imperative that we provide information, stories, and accurate and helpful messaging to our members, to the industry, and beyond. I am grateful to be the person who is steering that ship, as I enter the next chapter of my career with SBCA. I look forward to speaking with many of you and hearing your thoughts, ideas, and stories. Please reach out to me at cwagner@sbcacomponents.com if you have an idea or story you’d like to share!
Christine Wagner, Managing Editor