Presidents Message

President’s Message by Ginger Switzer, C.P.M., A.P.P., MBA

Many of you, about 176 ISM-Florida Gulf Coast, Inc. Chapter members, faithfully pay your substantial dues every year, but we never see you at any of our numerous educational and social Chapter events that we sponsor.  To do that, I initially need to answer your unspoken question: “What’s in it for me if I participate”? Listed below is a partial list of value adds that your ISM-Florida Gulf Coast membership offers:

Certifications
Such as the Certified Professional in Supply Management (“CPSM”) designation equate to career advancement, hiring or retention in layoffs, and bigger annual raises – in short, you are more valuable to your employer

Free and Very Low Cost
Educational live, taped and web-based seminars

Job Placement
Assistance through web site employment postings and networking

Networking
Our membership includes recognized experts on most commodities and services, so you can get answers to your job-related supply issues, or maybe even a better job

Scholarship opportunities

Skills that enhance your job performance

Onsite training

Volunteer recognition letter to your boss

Mentoring opportunities for you to either mentor others, or to have a mentor for you

Nationally-recognized speakers at Chapter monthly dinner meetings

Continuing Education Recertification points

Perhaps this list might convince you that there is some benefit to you personally if you actively participate in Chapter events. We want to be of even more assistance to you on your chosen career path. To that end we created a very short member survey that I ask you to complete, just click on this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/YY8WKBP. It is only 10 questions and will only take five minutes. This will greatly enhance the ability of your Chapter Board of Directors to better plan events that meet your needs. We really would like to assist you in achieving your career goals. Remember that career advancement also entails professional responsibility; if you want your profession to help you advance, then you need to assist your chosen profession.

We welcome your assistance in any of the numerous volunteer opportunities open within our ISM Chapter just contact me, Karl Stevens if you have any questions or would like to volunteer.

My contact information is: work: 727-549-7012; or
e-mail: switzer@ctc.com

On behalf of your ISM-Florida Gulf Coast Chapter Board of Directors, we look forward to serving you better and helping you advance your career through participation in our numerous Chapter events.