This is my next to last Executive Director column, and I want to use it to thank those that have provided me with so much support and guidance over the past 8 years.
First, I want to acknowledge the important role that John Kennedy, P.E. (H) played in bringing me to ITE. John was ITE International President and head of the search committee for the first new ITE Executive Director and CEO in more than three decades. John strongly encouraged me to consider applying for the position. I am so glad that I did. Over the next 8 years, I have been privileged to work with ITE International Presidents—Paula Flores (F), Shawn Leight, P.E., PTOE, PTP (F), Michael Sanderson, P.E., PTOE, LEED AP (F), Bruce Belmore, P.Eng., PTOE (F), Randy McCourt, P.E., PTOE (H), Alyssa Rodriguez, P.E., PTOE (F), Beverly Kuhn, Ph.D., P.E., PMP (F), and Rosana Correa, P.E., PTOE (F)—who each brought their unique talents and ideas to the position, and were also willing to share leadership with their predecessors and successors. I also want to thank the many past ITE International Presidents who continue to contribute to ITE’s success. One of the hallmarks of ITE is the length of service of its members, and these individuals epitomize this dedication.
It took strong leadership and courage to make the kind of change that was made at ITE during my time here, particularly the ONE ITE initiative. Thanks to the many Board Members for their willingness to take ownership of the success of ITE as a whole. Thanks, too, to Eric Rensel (M) who has been the driving force behind the rejuvenation of ITE’s Councils.
A key ingredient to ITE’s success is our outstanding staff and that starts with our executive team. The two best decisions I made at ITE were in hiring Kathi Driggs and
Colleen Agan. As our Chief Operating Officer, Kathi has been an instrumental to our success by attending to the many details needed to keep the organization running
smoothly. Colleen guides our member recruitment, retention, and engagement efforts. She has been a key ingredient in our membership growth. Phil Caruso, Jeff Lindley, P.E. (F) and Steve Kuciemba (F) each brought their technical knowledge and leadership skills to the Chief Technical Officer position and helped reposition ITE at the forefront of our profession. Jeff has been a close friend and colleague nearly my entire professional career, and I benefited greatly from his counsel.
I also want to thank all the other ITE staff members I had the opportunity to work with. These unsung heroes work hard every day in support of ITE. With the combination
of a knowledgeable veteran presence and new and talented younger staff, ITE is in good hands in the years to come. I want to recognize the thousands of members who volunteer their time as elected and volunteer leaders at all levels of this organization. You are ITE. We could not succeed without you.
Finally, I need to thank my wife, Kim. I could not have accomplished what I have in my career without her love and support. She has been an important part of this ITE
journey. I know she would want me to send along her thanks for the many kindnesses shown to her along the way. I have been fortunate and proud to serve as the face of ITE for these last 8 years, but it is with the recognition that I stand on the shoulders of many.
Thank you for the opportunity and for your support.