Human resources managers, executives representing their companies and YVPs (young valve professionals) from VMA companies gathered Nov. 14-15 at the Valve Manufacturers Association’s Human Resources Workshop in Houston. Attendees heard from several speakers and shared experiences on a wide range of topics of importance to those responsible for their companies HR activities.

The event kicked off with a welcome and introduction of VMA’s Valve Careers program by Kelly Watson, VMA Communications Committee member, and VP of Sales & Marketing for Watson Grinding & Mfg., based out of Houston. Watson updated attendees on the accomplishments of the initiative thus far—such as the Valve Careers website, marketing videos, social media, members-only resources and more—and additional Valve Careers resources and projects that are on the horizon.

The Valve Manufacturers Association elected new board members, presented awards to people who have served the organization and listened to speakers share their ideas on how the economy and the industry are faring at the 77th Annual VMA/VRC (Valve Repair Council) Meeting Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 in Naples, FL.

Five years after the first Valve Basics Seminar was held, the course continues to attract a diverse array of young industry professionals from across the U.S. and Canada. More than 1,000 people have attended the course, which originally was designed as a one-day event and eventually grew to two full days. Now, with continual feedback from past attendees indicting they wanted “more” Valve Ed, VMA’s Education & Training Committee is launching a third day of programming in 2015.

Board members were elected, special members were recognized and a new career program was approved at the Valve Manufacturers Association’s 76th Annual Meeting Sept. 18-20 at the Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain in Marana, AZ. Association members also heard from several experts in the economic and consulting fields.