NAEC Mainline Summer 2024

MAINLINE

A publication of the National Association of Elevator Contractors

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770.760.9660

800.900.NAEC (6232) 770.760.9714 naec.org info@naec.org

Lori Wolking

Sean Madden

Rená Cozart

NAEC

Celebrating75Yearsof ElevatingExcellence

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You don’t want to miss out on this historic 75th anniversary book full of photos of the movers and shakers, friends and family who created and nurtured this great association through the years Coffee table style book estimated size: 9 x 9 perfect bound in full color. Cover image is not yet final. 100-116 pages. Book to ship prior to the NAEC United Convention in September 2024; limited copies will be available at this event. Pre-Order Your Limited-Edition Print Copy of NAEC 75

This book celebrates NAEC’s 75th anniversary with a review of its enduring history in the elevator industry Industry writers, including ELEVATOR WORLD History

Correspondent Dr Lee Gray, trace the association’s story from its inception to today, highlighting its founders, meetings, fall conventions, spring conferences, education programs and the history of the famous dregs parties

A Special Thank You to ECNY

Thank you to the Elevator Conference of New York (ECNY) for helping to support our 2024 United Convention in Atlantic City this September

Continuing an Institution of Learning & Connecting

Each year, NAEC’s Spring Educational Conference offers a robust agenda of knowledge sharing, business development, and networking that make the event a celebrated annual institution for the NAEC membership. The 2024 conference was held in April at the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida.

During the opening breakfast program, NAEC President Sean Madden provided the State of the Association address, recognizing the outstanding work and dedication of our committees He gave a special shout-out to the Membership Development Committee, who, in recognition of NAEC’s 75th Anniversary, blew past their goal of recruiting 30 new members in 75 days

This year’s conference broke an NAEC record with over 300 fully registered attendees!

Madden touted NAEC’s strategic plan as “the blueprint for NAEC’s growth,” and as the impetus for several achievements, including a much-needed return to live events, the rollout of QEI, the 9 Safety Absolutes as the NAEC standard, the impact of NexGen and Women In Motion, and a new marketing video for the first time in over 12 years. “Through all of this, ” he continued, “NAEC’s Finance Committee and Board of Directors has continued to strengthen the organization’s financial reserves and investments ”

Madden announced that the board, along with other members, will use your feedback from the general membership survey to help construct the new strategic plan. Following Madden, Elevator World President and CEO T. Bruce MacKinnon took the podium to deliver a State of the Industry address. Then, it was on to education, education, education! Participants could select from more than 15 different sessions over a three-day period, with topics reflecting various facets of the industry, including safety, code updates, technology, marketing and brand development, artificial intelligence, and sales.

Members also engaged in committee meetings and a special Women in Motion Roundtable session. To ensure a balance of professional development and socializing with colleagues, the NAEC conference included ample opportunity for participants to enjoy each others’ company and have a good time Built into the schedule were two golf tournaments, receptions, and the highly anticipated closing Dregs Party, held this year in the sand at the nearby Baytowne Marina Guests enjoyed fresh seafood, cocktails, games and live music

Congratulations to our Spring Conference Survey Winner!

We would like to extend a big thank you to everyone who attended our 2024 Spring Conference and to those who actively participated in the education surveys We had a record of 133 education surveys submitted The feedback is invaluable and helps us continually improve our programs and services to better serve the industry

We are excited to announce that the winner of the complimentary United 2024 registration is Will Cromwell from BEDCO Mobility, Inc. Congratulations, Will!

Once again, a big thank you to everyone for your support. We look forward to seeing you in Atlantic City!

Whale Watcher Sponsors

Dolphin Explorer Sponsors

Mahi Mahi Marvel Sponsors

Navigating Horizons

During the 2024 NAEC Spring Conference, Women in Motion hosted engaging roundtable discussions where colleagues could delve into the crucial topics shaping the elevator industry. From mastering work-life balance to adapting to marketing trends, fostering inclusive workplace culture, and strategizing for customer loyalty, this session offered invaluable insights for women navigating diverse challenges and opportunities in today's dynamic business environment.

Thank You!

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to those who participated in the round tables and all the events at the NAEC Spring Conference Your presence and engagement made the event truly memorable As we continue to build a strong and supportive community, we are excited to invite you to join our LinkedIn group It’s dedicated to inspiring and connecting women in the vertical transportation industry and keeping them updated on industry news.

Warm Regards,

Oberhardt

Women in Motion Chairwoman

Kone Spare

Veronica Querales

Women in Motion Vice Chairwoman

Kohtler Elevator Ind

Our Purpose

We aim to create an inclusive, influential and dynamic community within the vertical transportation industry. Our mission revolves around championing education, fostering networking opportunities, and promoting mentorship While initially founded by a group of inspiring women, our commitment extends to allies who share our vision of equality and mutual support

A Retreat to Recharge Professionally & Personally

The NexGen retreat garnered participation from 53 attendees, including 15 first-time participants

The NexGen retreat kicked off with a meet and greet at the Marina Bar & Grill before going over to the Dregs Party to socialize with all who attended the NAEC Spring Conference. The first full day of the retreat opened with a networking breakfast where attendees learned more about each other while playing Bingo. Unlike regular Bingo, the spaces on the card were filled with fun facts about each attendee and it was their job to find out which fact belonged to which attendee.

The retreat included 10 education sessions on leadership, risk management, safety, sales, and elevating business with Excel Brittany Brothers’ featured presentation “Rise Above the Sales Noise” covered key sales strategies and included a workshop where attendees were paired into teams to create a sales pitch for a beach item The teams then presented their sales pitch to the group The challenge? They had to sell the item by giving it a different function than it would normally have

The second day of the retreat featured a panel session where attendees discussed industry issues. This session was led by contractor members Jay Dalvano of All-Ways Elevator and Luis Ramos of TK Elevator, associate member Aaron Boyer, VDA; and supplier member Salvatore Severini of The Peelle Company The day ended with NexGen’s Annual Think Tank event where the group reflected on the retreat and decided what to improve on for the next one.

Contact Danielle Chappelear, Senior Development Manager, at danielle@naec.org if you are interested in attending NexGen events or would like to be added to the mailing list.

Big Thank You to the NexGen Retreat Sponsors!

Member Spotlight: Washington Elevator

How long has your company been in operation?

Washington Elevator was established in 2020 by our founder, Jason Schaplow, a successful elevator mechanic for over 20 years, based upon his philosophy to approach each customer with the same promise the customer comes first Partner and coowner, Sarah Waterman, joined in July of 2022, with 25 years as a successful business leader in the elevator industry Jason and Sarah’s business partnership is built upon nearly 10 years of previous work together in the trade, sharing a passion for the customer experience We are a locally owned and operated licensed elevator contractor.

What is the scope of your business? Any interesting projects of late?

Washington Elevator specializes in low and mid-rise buildings, which allows us to be exceptional in our services and solutions. We offer maintenance, repair, code compliance and modernizations. Perhaps more importantly we provide transparent, helpful information through our educational news blog We have had several interesting projects; however, as of late our most notable team accomplishment is our elevator partnership with Seattle University Seattle University is a Jesuit, Catholic university located on more than 50 acres in the heart of Seattle, Washington The campus expects safety first, creative problem solving, consistent communication, responsiveness and reliable service, all of which are a match for our passion to provide service excellence

What are your company’s core values/mission?

The Washington Elevator team believes in three core connections: customers, employees, and the company. It may sound simple, but that triangle holds us accountable when making decisions and seeking success for everyone impacted. So we ask ourselves: Is it good for the customer? Is it good for the employee? Is it good for the company?

What are your favorite things about NAEC and your membership?

While we are a new(er) member, the supportive, collaborative culture of NAEC is fantastic. Add in the newsletters, easy access to training, industry events and (especially for Sarah), Women in Motion, NAEC offers a tremendous amount of value.

How do you believe your company has benefited from being a member of NAEC?

Two key benefits: First, the ability to network and collaborate with other industry leaders. Second, it provides the backing that as a local independent, NAEC is a national association of members.

Do you have any advice for companies that are newer to the vertical transportation Industry?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of experienced industry leaders (big or small) and ask lots of them Be excited! The vertical transportation industry will always throw a new challenge your way, which allows you growth personally and professionally Be sure to reflect often on your values and mission

The Digital Revolution in the Elevator Industry How LIFT AI is Leading the Charge

by Rob Wurth, LIFT AI

As industrial infrastructure rapidly digitizes, the elevator industry is poised for significant transformation. The integration of digital technology promises to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in elevator operations. LIFT AI stands at the forefront of this digital revolution, offering a suite of innovative technology solutions designed to modernize the key areas within the industry

The Evolution of the Elevator Industry

Historically, elevator maintenance relied heavily on analog systems and monthly service schedules

Quality service was the cornerstone of the industry, but it was often supported by experience rather than empirical data Today, the landscape is changing Modern service models emphasize targeted maintenance, combining experience with datasupported advice to provide analog and digital customer experiences (CX) This shift enables maintenance efficiency and increased equipment reliability, meeting the evolving demands of building owners and operators.

About LIFT AI

LIFT AI is an independent, connected elevator technology platform dedicated to improving elevator reliability and performance through advanced technology Founded by industry veterans, LIFT AI’s mission is to equip partners with cutting-edge tools that foster business growth by enhancing transparency and accountability in elevator operations The team comprises experts with decades of experience in both the elevator and software development industries, ensuring a robust and innovative approach to elevator management

LIFT AI’s Achievements and Impact

Since its inception in 2019, LIFT AI has made significant strides in the industry

The company has developed three generations of IoT hardware, installed over 1,000 IoT devices, and onboarded more than 1,500 elevators to its management platform through partnerships with consultants and service companies. These efforts have translated to helping partners increase efficiency in their maintenance operations while improving customer satisfaction, and have led to significant positive results for property managers through transparency in elevator asset management, including reduced callbacks

How LIFT AI Works

LIFT AI’s platform provides two distinct solutions: one for consultants and one for service providers

For consultants and their clients, Lift AI’s asset management platform aggregates all operational, maintenance, compliance, and financial data into a single platform across properties, equipment and service providers With a single, simplified view into management of the elevator assets, consultants are able to effectively drive spend management and increase reliability initiatives for their clients. These results are then clearly displayed for their clients to showcase the positive ROI.

For service providers, Lift AI’s service management platform provides an end-to-end solution for transitioning to usage-based maintenance, while introducing digital customer experience (CX) features to their clients This enables service companies to drive efficiency in field operations while not sacrificing quality of service or the safety of elevators, and ultimately creating an even better customer experience

The Role of AI in Elevators

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to play a crucial role in the future of elevator management

By leveraging AI, LIFT AI can transform unformatted vendor data into clean, actionable insights, streamline invoice and proposal reviews, and quickly generate standard reporting to reduce mundane administrative tasks for our consultant partners

For our service provider partners, we are using AI to enhance our sensor capabilities in areas such as shutdown and other anomaly detection, in addition to other areas we are still early in working on

These advancements will not only improve operational efficiency for our partners, but also enhance the reliability and safety of elevator systems. As AI continues to evolve, its applications in the elevator industry will expand, driving further innovation and improvement

Partnership and Industry Trends

The success of the digital transformation in the elevator industry hinges on strong partnerships between traditional industry players and newer technology firms

The demand for data-driven innovation across all areas of the industry is only growing, with leading consulting firms and service providers investing heavily in leading the way for their customers Building owners and operators increasingly seek data and transparency, recognizing the competitive advantage it offers, and those providing solutions will be the leaders in the industry in the era of digitalization and AI

Conclusion

The elevator industry is on the cusp of a digital revolution, and LIFT AI is leading the charge. By embracing advanced technology and fostering strong industry partnerships, LIFT AI and its partners are transforming elevator management, and enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency with service operations As the industry continues to evolve, LIFT AI’s innovative solutions will play a pivotal role in shaping its future

Help Promote Careers in the Elevator Industry

The Education Committee has developed a brochure for companies to use as a recruitment resource. The brochure is customizable, allowing companies to add their logo at the bottom and to go out to different schools and job fairs to advocate for the elevator industry.

The elevator industry is one of the highest paid in apprenticeship trades.

September 23, 2024 | Atlantic City, NJ Atlantic City Convention Center 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Click here to Register

NAEC is excited to give our members an opportunity to participate in a give-back project this year at the United Convention and Expo in Atlantic City For years, members have been requesting an event like this at our annual convention In honor of NAEC's 75th Anniversary, we are proud to rollout United In Deed Thanks to our generous host, MEI - Total Elevator Solutions, we will partner with Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) and assist with packing meals that will feed children all over the world. FMSC is a nonprofit based in Coon Rapids, Minnesota. Their meals are developed by food science and nutrition professionals to supplement nutritional needs and reduce malnutrition Come on out and make a difference!

Secure Your United Convention Sponsorship Today!

Targeted Exposure. Connections. Excellence.

We are thrilled to extend an exclusive invitation to you to become a sponsor for the highly anticipated 2024 United Convention! This is a prime opportunity for your brand to gain unparalleled, targeted exposure, forge valuable connections, and showcase your excellence within the industry Sponsorship opportunities are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis Securing your sponsorship early ensures maximum visibility for your brand before, during and after the convention

To secure your sponsorship, contact Lori Wolking, NAEC National Development Officer at Lori@naec.org or call 301-852-8110. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to align your brand with this pinnacle event.

Get your spot early. Click to learn more.

2025 Call for Presentations

Although the 2024 United Convention call for presentations has been closed, the form is now open for the 2025 Spring Conference and 2025 Fall Convention Share your industry knowledge and click here to submit

The Elevator Industry Safety Partners (EISP) has released a new website at www elevatorindustrysafetypartners com, where you can find complete details on the OSHA Alliance and access various resources on OSHA 10, OSHA 30, and best practices EISP comprises the Elevator Contractors of America, Elevator Industry Work Preservation Fund, International Union of Elevator Constructors, National Association of Elevator Contractors, National Elevator Industry Educational Program and National Elevator Industry Inc

Ways Small Businesses Can Attract Employees

Small businesses have less capacity in terms of wages and benefits to play with the big boys, so they must be more creative when attracting and retaining talent

Sometimes a challenge is an opportunity in disguise

Last year, the national unemployment rate hit an alltime high, and in the aftermath of that nationwide economic shock, employees at all levels are now switching jobs That means if you can offer job stability, you may be able to draw in top industry talent Do it right, and you can punch above your weight and set your small business up for success

Some small businesses say that finding the right staff at all levels, especially the senior level, is a challenge Staff shortages can limit a company's growth or force an executive to work more hours to compensate. Some have responded by raising salaries or improving benefits.

Small businesses have less capacity in terms of wages and benefits to play with the big boys, so they're more creative when attracting and retaining talent. They may consider stock options for all employees, unlimited vacations, tuition-support programs, pet-friendly environments, and health and wellness programs Some even deliver lunches for remote workers

Go with your strengths

Following are some ideas you should keep in mind when overhauling your hiring process

Raise your profile as an employer by expanding on how different you are and what your strengths are, whether those are in the form of compensation, benefits, opportunities for advancement or a flexible workspace. Build a strong employer brand, which can be a key factor in whether someone decides to join your team or accept a competitor's offer instead Job candidates research a company online and will move on to another job offer if they can't find information on a firm Rethink how you attract young people. Maintain high ratings in Glassdoor reviews. Be vocal about your support of gender equality in the workplace Note that flexibility is perhaps the biggest advantage for smaller businesses With a more informal working structure, you can attract people who have different needs. You can tailor work experience, allowing workers to work from home and experience the freedom to develop their careers the way they want to

Rethink how you attract young people. Maintain high ratings in Glassdoor reviews. Be vocal about your support for equal pay, workplace flexibility, or other benefits you offer that differentiates your company.

Create an engaging careers section on your website Tell potential hires about your company history, team culture, what benefits you offer, what type of person you're looking for and why they should want to join your team

Make sure your page is clearly labeled and easy to find and includes all the information a potential employee might need Consider including photos of your office, a group photo of your team and a video with a virtual tour of the office as well as interviews with existing employees and highlights of working for your firm. Promote intangible and lifestyle benefits. Offer extra perks to make your company stand out from the crowd: company outings, in-office events, free coffee and snacks, a relaxed dress code, and focusing on worklife balance and a family-friendly workplace. These options cost nothing and can tip the balance if a potential hire is considering multiple offers

Post clear, comprehensive job descriptions

Accurately describe the job, listing the position's responsibilities and tasks, skills and experience required, desired work schedule and location, an overview of the company, and a description of the ideal candidate

Don't forget salary range, information on reporting structure, benefits information and more details about company culture and personality

Make the content of the description easily findable and posted directly on a website page rather than as a downloadable PDF. Offer a smooth, fast, mobile-friendly online application process. Because most job applications take place online, it makes sense to offer an excellent candidate experience on your website. Don't make it too difficult or confusing to complete. Don't let the application process take too long Promoting an opening on mobile devices can increase the number of applicants

HR Solutions Survey for NAEC Members

Our HR partner, Hopkins Group, is keen to understand our member needs and preferences regarding HR services. To gather your feedback, they have prepared a short survey. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey by June 30. Your feedback is crucial in helping us provide better support and services tailored to your interests. Thank you for your time and participation!

Revolutionize Your HR Strategies

Welcome to a tailored HR solution exclusively crafted for our NAEC members by the Hopkins Group. Unlock a world of efficiency and precision with our dedicated web interface, designed to cater to your unique needs. Seamlessly navigate through a wealth of HR solutions, curated to elevate your organization’s performance. From streamlined recruitment processes to comprehensive employee management tools, empower your team with the Hopkins Group’s expertise at your fingertips. Experience the difference of personalized HR support, exclusively for NAEC members. Join us and revolutionize your HR strategies today.

QEI Code Update Workshops

On May 10, David Smarte, NAEC global safety and education officer, led a QEI Code Update workshop in Lexington, Kentucky This eight-hour training course was interactive and intended to teach the newer code material in comparison to the prior code version The material targeted mechanics/technicians, inspectors, and consultants

Click here to register for the next course!

July 18. QEI Code Update Course in Hapeville, GA (Near the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport)

Attention: QEI Renewal Season Coming Soon

Renewal period opens July 2024

Certification Expiration Date: September 30, 2024

Continuing Education Requirements: Each QEI must complete 1.0 CEU (10, 0.1 CEUs) of NAEC-approved QEI Continuing Education.

Don't miss out on renewing your QEI certification! Make sure to complete your CEUs on time to stay compliant For more information, contact certification@naec org

NAEC Seeking Nominations for Certification Board Positions

Deadline: Friday, July 12, 2024

NAEC invites applications from the membership to join the NAEC Certification Board. This year we will elect three board members who have no less than 10 years of experience in the elevator industry and have a history of NAEC engagement. The term is for three years, beginning September 2024. Should a member wish to nominate either themselves or another member (with their permission) they should submit any candidates for consideration using our NOMINATION FORM at right.

The Certification Board develops, implements, and updates the operating policies and procedures to ensure that the NAEC Certification Board activities and processes are conducted in accordance with the association’s mission

Nominating yourself or other candidates for office is a valuable service to the association and your thoughtful participation in this process is greatly appreciated Nominations must be received no later than Friday, July 12, 2024 Please direct all questions to certification@naec.org.

Member Spotlight: AFD Industries Inc.

How long has your company been in operation? Is this a family owned/operated company?

AFD was established in the late 1950s and has been family-owned and operated by the Gill family since the early 1980s.

What is the scope of your business? Any interesting projects of late?

We are the exclusive supplier for Pfeifer DRAKO elevator wire ropes, Savera guide rails, and Allweiler submersible elevator pumps. Most recently, our products are installed in One World Trade Center, the Seattle Space Needle, and Los Angeles SoFi Stadium.

What are your company’s core values/mission?

Since inception, AFD's core value is to deliver the highest quality products, on-time, and be available and responsive to our customers.

What are your favorite things about NAEC and your membership?

The NAEC is essential to every aspect of the industry as it relates to advancing the future of vertical transportation

How do you believe your company has benefited from being a member of NAEC?

Our participation and commitment to the association's activities is the most rewarding for our organization, valued partners and customers Since AFD joined in 1959, our employees have been very active attending conventions, Spring conferences, joining committees including By-Laws and NexGen and even serving on the Board of Directors

Do you have any advice for companies that are newer to the vertical transportation industry?

The NAEC is the best association to support your organization's impact in the industry.

Welcome New Members

Access

Alamex Elevator

All Brands Elevator Industries

ASI Drives

ATI Decorative Laminates

Atlantic Lifts Lts

Baxter Planning

Beijing Keyuanlong Technology Co., Ltd.

Benchmark

Big

Carolina

Connections Elevator

Daehyun

Dupont Specialty Products USA

EL-ESCA

Elevate Monitoring

ELMO ITALY

George Elevator Service

Infinte Elevator

KS Perlensteel LLC

Level Up Elevator Components Inc

Liftworks Elevator Co

Montanari Group

marketing@airwave.us

hamdi@alam.mx

sales@advtechnology.com

admin@atlanticlifts.com

rmartin@baxterplanning.com

gujian@keyuanlong.com.cn

scott@benchmarklift.com

tschwartz@connectionselevator.com

gregg.h.lear@dupont.com

patrick@el-esca.com

s_helmig@centragroup.net

crucitti@elmoitaly.com

office@geselevator.com

Covert ryan@infiniteelevator.com

Shimoni yizhar@perlensteelcorp.com

jonas.leblanc@outlook.com

Scott Hollingsworth scott@liftworksNM.com

Dillip Rangnekar d.rangnekar@montanarigiulio.com

Oracle Elevator Company PR Contractor Mildred Diaz mdiaz@oraclelevator.com

Orange Elevator Company Inc Contractor Jeffrey Marmur corporate@orangelifts.com

S2SOURCE AND TECHNOLOGY LLC Supplier Sam Carter sales@s2source.com

Sam's Club Associate Landon Grigg landon.grigg@samsclub.com

Shanley Pump & Equipment, Inc. Supplier Mia Shanley Euthemias@shanleypump.com

Skyline Elevators NY LLC Contractor Shlome Jaroslawitz shimon@skylineelevatorsny.com

TAL Elevator Controls Supplier Pamela Colditz pam@talcontrols.com

Total Elevator Service Contractor Dan Schultz dshultz@totalelevator.co

Tung Da Electric Co Ltd International Supplier Alan Lan alan@tungda.com.tw

United Elevator Consultants Associate Philip Garcia Jr. philthymon@yahoo.com