This post is authored by Terrence G. Ives, president of ISA 2013.

I’m very pleased to report that ISA Automation Week 2013, which was held last week in Nashville, Tenn., was a resounding success. The technical program was highly thought-provoking and packed with critical insights and information that attendees can put to use immediately in their work settings and careers.

Such a high-profile, demanding, and resource-intensive conference doesn’t take place by chance. It’s the result of the knowledge, hard work, and can-do attitude of ISA members and staff as well as ISA’s valued customers and partners.

As I bask in the post-event glow and reflect on all the great sessions and activities that took place last week, I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to ISA members.

From the outset of my year as ISA president, I have witnessed the dedication and sterling contributions of ISA members first hand. Whether attending ISA division and section events or participating in the myriad Society leadership, governance, and budget meetings, I have always come away impressed with and excited over members’ passion and dedication.

It’s quite fitting that ISA has designated this month as ISA Member Appreciation Month. Throughout November, ISA is offering members special benefits, promotions, and discounts on products, and opportunities to win valuable gifts − everything from Starbucks gift cards to a 3D printer.

All this is just a small way ISA can convey its gratitude for the many ways ISA members bring energy and vitality to the Society, share their time and expertise, and position the automation and control profession to meet the challenges of the future.

For all the details on the great discounts available during the month – on highly popular ISA training and publications − as well as prizes, visit the ISA web page. Note that full ISA members will gain significant savings on training and publications that are over and above their regular 20 percent discounts.

ISA’s automation community members also need to know that these valuable discounts apply to you as well. I hope that our automation community members will take advantage of these outstanding opportunities to receive world-class ISA training and publications at impressive savings, and explore the added value and benefits of full ISA membership. (Take a minute to review these benefits.) By discovering all that ISA has to offer, you’ll be sure to find new avenues to fulfill your professional interests and achieve your personal goals.

Speaking of personal goals, through the support of ISA members, I’ve been able to achieve many of mine this year. Thanks to all of you for making my year as ISA president so memorable and rewarding, and I look forward to sharing with you some additional, final thoughts in the December issue of ISA Insights.

About the Author
Terrence G. Ives is the third-generation president and owner of Ives Equipment Corporation in King of Prussia, Penn., a process control manufacturing representative and stocking distributor. Terry has been actively involved in ISA leadership for many years. He has held numerous positions at the local and Society level including Society Treasurer, Executive Board Parliamentarian, Finance Committee Chair, Investment Committee Chair, District 2 Vice President, and Philadelphia Section President and Exhibit Chairman. He received a bachelor of science degree in industrial systems engineering from Ohio University.