The Women’s Industry Network (WIN) annual conference had record attendance this year, with 142 women traveling from throughout the United States and Canada to Orlando, Fla. The largest segment of attendees was collision repairers.
Now in its fourth year, the conference continues to appeal to a broad cross section of women in the industry, from “first-timers” (women who have never attended an industry event) to seasoned business owners and company executives.
“In developing our content, we strive to consider every woman in the industry by offering rich educational and networking opportunities in a welcoming environment,” said Frederica Carter, AkzoNobel Coatings, who served as co-chair of the 2010 WIN Conference Committee, along with Katie Henwood, DuPont.
Attendees enjoyed topics which included an industry overview delivered by Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO, Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association; an analysis of how vehicle technology and safety impacts repairability presented by Kim Hazelbaker, senior vice president, Highway Loss Data Institute; and pointers on managing the repair process, offered by Mike Anderson, CollisionAdvice.com. Mike Condon, president, Condon Consulting, moderated a spirited panel discussion on the “DRP Debate.” Additionally, WIN’s annual scholarship walk was supported by an enthusiastic group of 90 participants and raised $1,350.
A traditional award presented at the conference is the annual “Cornerstone Award,” which was presented to Marcy Tieger, Symphony Advisors LLC, for exemplifying the values and ideals of WIN.
Another highlight was the recognition of five of WIN’s founders who have remained involved with the organization and served on its board since its founding. They are: Frederica Carter; Geralynn Kottschade, Jerry’s Body Shop; Kathy Mello, TGIF Body Shop; Trish Serratore, ASE; and Marcy Tieger.
Geri Kottschade will remain on the board as the immediate past chair, while the others will be cycling off. Kim White, FinishMaster, will return as chair of the organization.
“We are grateful for the energy and passion that these five women have demonstrated and the foundation that they have helped lay,” White said. “We are glad to know that they will continue to nurture and stay connected to WIN and help us transition into this next phase of our organization.”
WIN will announce the names of its incoming board members, as well as the date and location for next year’s conference, very soon.
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