Page 17 - CMA PROfiles Summer 2015

New Initiatives from CMA

Member Consultation program and focus on regional events

he Cabinet Makers Association is launching a new among members. Having a group of people to rely on for
Member Consultation program, as well as renewing advice and expertise can help a member reach their goals
T its focus on regional events during 2015. The CMA of a more successful business and a better personal life.
Mentor Council is a new and exciting program offered The mission of the CMA has been and continues to be
by the CMA for the benefit of its members. The Mentor “Successful people helping others to be successful.”
Council consists of CMA members who are considered
leaders in the industry because they are up on the latest CMA Plans Regional Events for Fall 2015
technology and methods. Mentors have experience with
presenting seminars at industry gatherings and writing The CMA is deep in the planning process to present
articles for the trade press on matters relating to running two regional events to be held in the fall of 2015. The
a successful and profitable business. first will be in the Chicago area and feature a full day
of seminars by industry experts at Exclusive Wood-
A member wanting to receive insights into problems working in Waukegan, IL. A second full day of shop tours will begin
they may be experiencing in their business would contact the council at Exclusive Woodworking and include a visit to their showroom, nu-
for a consultation. To start the process, a member fills out a form on the Haus, in downtown Chicago. Just blocks away, participants will also
CMA website listing details about their business such as what products get to visit the Hafele showroom for a look at the company’s inner
they make, how many employees they have and what size their shop workings. A third and optional day is also being planned to visit such
is. A determination is made by the Council to pair the member with a area attractions as the Merchandise Mart, and a Chicago Architecture
Mentor who has experience in a similar business situation. After a few Foundation River Cruise. Sampling of Chicago-style pizza is also on
emails from the Mentor clarifying what the member hopes to accom- the schedule. The second event is being planned in the Northern New
plish with the session, a phone conference is scheduled. The phone Jersey area and includes a full day of seminars by industry experts,
conference typically lasts an hour to an hour and a half, and follow-up followed by a day of shop tours. Preliminary plans call for a third day
calls may be made to monitor the member’s progress. to visit some related attractions in Manhattan, including the Hafele
showroom on 26th Street. More details and registration information
The goal of the Mentor Council is to engage new and existing CMA
will be released as it becomes available. For more information, please
members through one-on-one interaction with other members in the contact CMA Executive Director Jim McDermott at (866) 562-2512
group. This interaction has often led to new and long-lasting friendships
or via email director@cabinetmakers.org. ❖

PROFILES • Volume 15 • Issue 3, 2015 • www.cabinetmakers.org 17