I am sure we all agree that, as a group, united in stance and purpose, we stand a much better chance of achieving any goal we might establish. One goal that technicians as a group share is a way to provide either assistance to those that seek to enter the field and/or a way to reward those that have shown exemplary service.
Over the last year I have promoted the idea of the need for a credible organization to represent technicians nationally. An organization that will be a voice to the FAA and other regulatory agencies that make and oversee the rules that affect the work of keeping aircraft airworthy and air travel efficient and comfortable. Additionally, such an organization will serve to raise the public’s perception of the knowledge, skill, and sense or responsibility required by a technician to sign his or her name to a log certifying an aircraft airworthy and safe for travel. Another benefit of a nationally recognized association will be the growth of an "esprit de corps" among technicians from all parts of the country representing different parts and phases of aircraft maintenance. I could go on further extolling the benefits allied with this idea, but I think most of you get the idea.
However, as most of you know, we are at a place where two organizations, and, possibly three, seem to be vying with the other for approval and enlistment of members. These are PAMA and the AMTSociety. As to my credentials to write about these two groups, I was a PAMA board member for more than 15 years having run two successful national conventions on their behalf, and I am currently a full-fledged AMTSociety member, hoping to be able to support their current efforts as best I can.
Let it be clear, I am not writing here to justify the existence of one over the other. Rather my purpose is to hopefully begin a course of action where the two, (or three i.e. AMTA), can merge in a way that will bring greater benefit to their members. The process will require their communicating with each other, which I hope they can do, as it will be for the benefit of the profession.
My suggestion is simple ... combine fundraising operations under one committee that has equal membership from each association. When three different associations approach donors, it is confusing and dilutes the effort, and diminishes the return. Having represented a vendor that supported maintenance associations for years, I can vouch that if two and possibly three different groups approached me, for sponsorships of scholarships maintenance events, seminar support, dinner meetings, etc., my concerns would be numerous, not the least of which would be the best use of my donation.
AMTSociety solicits support for scholarships as a way to ensure future aircraft maintenance technicians are recognized for their desire to enter into the profession. AMTSociety scholarships were created to financially assist those currently working toward their credentials, as well as assist those already certified in furthering their professional education and training. It works through the Northrop-Rice Foundation, a 501C-3.
PAMA works through the PAMA Foundation, also a 501C-3. Its scholarship program rewards exemplary aviation maintenance students. Recipients of $1,000 scholarships are selected on the basis of established criteria and information provided in the student’s application.
Admittedly not being familiar with AMTA, I believe it is also a 501C-3. Based on its web site it promotes public awareness of the maintenance professional through various means, such as the presentation of Charles Taylor Awards to deserving individuals.
A combined effort, with a single marketing thrust, would be a much more effective way for these three associations to achieve their goals. In fact, each is looking to achieve much the same goals. I am confident a combined attempt would be met more favorably by industry.
Two members from each association would comprise a "board". A common application for scholarship or support can be established. Criteria for grants can be easily worked out. Meetings can be done by conference calls with information being traded through email prior to a confab. A checking account can be established with signatories from each association being required for use. In case of disputes or ties, a neutral individual from industry, acceptable to all parties, can be appointed to settle whatever disagreements might arise.
Having been established, a marketing program can be designed that highlights the combined effort showing those that might consider donations or other assistance the great value and benefit provided by such support.
I may be naive but this seems to me to be a no brainer.
What do you think?