BRAIN TRUST

Engaging Recyclers Roundtable Sets Dynamic Tone for the Industry’s Future

By Caryn Smith I 36

ndustry gatherings are commonly known for their sessions and celebrations, networking and notable keynotes – the balanced recipe for a perfect event. The Automotive Recyclers Association Annual Conven- tion & Expo is no different.

Yet, two years ago, just when it was needed as a way to bring the issues to the table and to obtain insights from the membership, the “Recycler’s Roundtable” was born. As the Association desired more interaction from the membership on key issues, this braintrust of the industry was a highlight of the event. So much so that it was brought back again for a second year as the 2nd Recycler’s Roundtable kicked off the 74th Annu- al Convention & Expo – held in Dallas, Texas in early November 2017 – with a force.

The intangible, yet evident, result of these pivotal ses- sions from the last two conventions was membership- wide unifi cation and bonding.

In Dallas, the room was packed with hundreds of at- tendees completely fi lling a huge ballroom. The two moderators, Shannon Nordstorm, CAR Committee Chair and owner of Nordstrom’s Automotive, Inc., and Scott Robertson, ARA’s new Executive Secretary and President of Robertson’s Auto Salvage, Inc., fi eld- ed the auto recycler’s comments and provided guid- ing insight for the tough topics of discussion such as OEM position statements, data, safety, global issues, marketing and more.

The mood was serious as opinions were shared. Heads nodding and hands raising throughout the ballroom. Many heads were down in concentration, jotting notes, while others listened intently to the dis-

March-April 2018 • AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLING