As a business owner, it’s easy to become so immersed in daily operations that you lose sight of the bigger picture. We understand how this can happen. Keeping up with the pace of our ever-evolving industry can be overwhelming and if you’re not way ahead, it can feel like you are falling behind. However, for long-term success, it’s essential to adopt a broader perspective and think outside the four walls of your business.
That’s why we’d like to highlight the benefits of working alongside a trade association like NTMA. By working together, we can overcome challenges, navigate this dynamic industry, and build partnerships with our robust peer network.
The Value of Trade Associations
Trade associations have been around since the 1800s, and they’re here to stay. Back in the day, trade organizations really moved the industry because they offered a hub for members to congregate. Without the internet, they were the place to get your industry-specific information and the place to connect with industry peers.
And though our industry is ever-changing, trade organizations continue to offer similar benefits from their early days of inception:
- Advocacy for members and industries as a whole
- Collaborative networking opportunities and peer-to-peer connections
- Offering updated resources and industry-specific information
Where NTMA Comes In
NTMA provides relevant, up-to-date information.
Decades ago, trade organizations were our sole resource for regulations and industry updates. Now that we have everything we could ever want to know at our fingertips, some manufacturers have let this value-add fall by the wayside. And while we certainly don’t want to underplay the vast knowledge base on the internet, the odds that you’ll find relevant answers to highly niche, industry-specific questions without falling down a bunch of rabbit holes are somewhat slim.
Meanwhile, through our regular correspondence, impactful events, and online platform NTMA Connect, we offer real-world answers to the multitude of questions our members may have. Whether they need inspection equipment recommendations or have a pressing question about a new state-wide regulation that impacts their business, our members always have access to factual and application information.
NTMA is there during the hard times.
While trade associations like NTMA are always prevalent, they are especially valuable when times get tough. Take, for instance, the most recent monumental event that had a profound impact on our industry: the pandemic.
In 2020 and the years following, our members discovered that they were stronger as a collective community. Confronted with the unexpected challenges of the pandemic, they found that navigating these uncertain times was far easier together than in isolation. Even though we adjusted many of our events to online and remote formats, these virtual gatherings offered a lifeline – a place to learn, collaborate, and commiserate with like-minded individuals. In addition, throughout this period, NTMA provided members with up-to-date information regarding regulations on a city, regional, state, and national level.
This was a difficult time for our industry, but the resources and networking opportunities offered by NTMA reminded professionals why they pursued a membership in the first place.
NTMA connects OEMs with manufacturers.
Yes, you read that correctly. More OEMs have contacted us inquiring about contract manufacturers to produce their parts this year than we’ve had in the last five years! We foresee this will be an ongoing trend, with partnerships developing between industries and trade organizations. And NTMA is happy to serve as a “matchmaker” between our members and their prospective customers!
NTMA advocates for our members.
While our members are busy juggling the nitty-gritty tasks that come with keeping a manufacturing company profitable, the NTMA team offers support on a more macro level. Our ultimate goal as an organization is to be an industry changer on behalf of our members, advocating for them on Capitol Hill and on a localized level.
NTMA is community-minded.
Sure, we’ve been talking about the impact of trade organizations, but when it comes down to it, NTMA sees itself as less of a trade association and more of a community of manufacturers. Since the day we started, we have helped members navigate this ever-changing marketplace and overcome any challenge that comes their way.
Whether you’re new to the industry or you’re a seasoned pro seeking ways to improve and evolve, consider joining our rich community and discover the benefits for yourself. Learn more about joining NTMA!
