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The YP Committee hosted a Lunch and Learn and invited GAWDA President Gary Halter to speak to the more than 70 participants about bridging the gap between different generations of employees, not only within GAWDA, but also within our member companies. Gary’s presentation, was, of course, chock full of great Gary-isms as he related how his career has progressed and how much he has gleaned from his mentors along the way. Following the insightful presentation, the Young Professionals hosted what has become an annual event at the SMC, its Scavenger Hunt. This year’s Hunt featured a twist, as the Young…

Following a short walk to the world-famous Espee, GAWDA’s SMC kicked off in style. With Texas BBQ, amazing music and dancing, karaoke, and drinks delivered right to people’s hands via donkey, the President’s Welcome Reception had something for everyone. And despite his shy and reserved nature, GAWDA President Gary Halter, clad in knickers and a school jacket like Angus Young, got up on stage with the band to lead the assembled crowd in a rousing rendition of Wanted Dead or Alive. It was pure GAWDA and the picture perfect kick off to this year’s SMC. Note: the President’s Welcome Reception…

The Booze Brothers (and Sisters) welcomed all GAWDA Distributors to their private Customer Appreciation Happy Hour at Margaritaville in beautiful San Antonio, TX after the Contact Booth Program.  The event was held on Saturday, April 20th, 2024 at Margaritaville in San Antonio, TX. This is an annual tradition held by Equigas, Direct Wire, Flame Tech, Steelmax, Norris Cylinder, Cryogenic Industrial Solutions, Superior Products, Cryostar, Blue Demon Welding Products & Weldcoa to combine forces to foster one big networking hospitality.

The 2023 GAWDA Annual Convention Gala Photobooth Sponsored by Astaras

GAWDA’s Board and Volunteer Committees Meet Ahead of the AC The GAWDA Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and Committee chairs arrived early for a full day of planning meetings ahead of the official start of this year’s Annual Convention. The Board and Committees continue to work relentlessly on behalf of GAWDA members to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit and value for your GAWDA membership. This meeting saw John Tapley named as the co-chair of the Member Services Committee, while Liz Letke was named co-chair of the industry’s insurance committee.

Opening General Business Session an Emotional Affair The first general session of this year’s Convention packed an emotional punch. First, it saw GAWDA President Robert Anders took the stage to recount all that has been accomplished during this past year. He reflected on the goals that he set out when he first took the stage in San Diego and beamed with pride when recounting all that GAWDA and our industry has achieved since then. But before that, Robert acknowledged the unbelievable tragedy that Maui suffered in August. He then welcomed Zeke Kalua, executive assistant to the Mayor’s office, to the…

Business of Convention Concludes With Thank You’s and The Changing of the Guard The Closing General Business Session kicked off with the Industry Keynote presentation, as Linde CEO Sanjiv Lamba addressed the crowd. He discussed the historic evolution that Linde has gone through over the past 144 years, including the recent merger with Praxair and acquisition of nexAir. He then shared some of the exciting initiatives that Linde has in the process as well as his perspective on the impending energy transition. Lamba was followed by a presentation from Will Bowen, the world authority on complaining. Will talked about how…

Convention Closes With “Blowout Party” Over a Year in the Making The Convention concluded Wednesday evening with an unforgettable President’s Farewell Gala. It was the “blowout party” that Robert promised when he took the stage in San Diego, complete with majestic views of the ocean and mountains, dinner, dancing, and a fire-dancing show. Thank you to all GAWDA members who attended and made this a night to remember!

GAWDA Young Professionals “Learn & Lunch” presentation The Young Professionals Committee gathered for a “Learn & Lunch” presentation with Robert Anders. A capacity crowd of more than 90 young professionals were treated to lunch and a workshop discussing Robert’s leadership principles and the trials and tribulations of working in a family business when you are outside of the family. It was an interesting, light-hearted and takeaway-filled discussion. Young Professionals Scavenger Hunt and After-Party After the “Learn & Lunch,” the YP attendees took part in a Scavenger Hunt around the hotel and throughout the city of Philadelphia. Attendees broke out…