December 12, 2023
Sarah Wilper, CERP
Best wishes, fellow American Rental Association (ARA) Region One members! As we approach the close of 2023, I have to say that I am continually amazed and humbled by the people in this industry. This year has thrown us a barrage of challenges: We have faced labor issues, equipment theft, and ups and downs in the economy — not to mention some of the wildest weather we have seen in our region over the spring and summer seasons. Through it all, we continue to persevere. We work hard to grow our businesses and the industry.
You can view a more in-depth take on what rental operators across our region have experienced in 2023 and how things are shaping up for 2024 here.
The new year will bring us some exciting opportunities.
First, please consider attending The ARA Show™ in New Orleans. From top-level education to social events and the can’t-miss show floor, the show is the best way you can set your business and your team up for success in the next year.
Then, the association is launching a new, comprehensive ARA Certified Forklift Training program in March. It is a great opportunity for all of us to make sure we are putting safety first! The program is designed with rental in mind. I have personally gone through the ARA Certified Event Rental Professional (CERP) program and can speak to the value education certifications add to your knowledge base and capability. I am looking forward to utilizing the forklift training with my own team. ARA continues to support us with the education we need to make sure our team and warehouses operate in the best way possible.
Finally, I would like to encourage folks in your rental operation who are in college or are college-bound to apply for a share of the $138,000 in scholarships that will be available for the 2024-2025 school year through the ARA Foundation and its affiliate partners. Students from Connecticut and New York take special notice, because your state chapters offer “affiliate” state-specific scholarships among the many offerings. It’s easy to apply — one application submission takes care of everything. Learn more and apply here.
In addition, I just want to let you know that this regional newsletter will be moving to a quarterly distribution next year. If you don’t want to miss out on any regional news before the next one comes out in March, click here. We’ll make sure you receive the latest in your email feed.
I wish you, your families and your team members a wonderful holiday season! Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your ARA Region One director. Here’s to a big and bright 2024!
Sarah Wilper, CERP, ARA Region One director
Taylor Rental Center
Manchester, Conn.
860-643-2496
sarahw@mytaylorrental.com
