70 Years Strong

I recently attended ADMA’s 2013 Annual Conference, a gathering of some 50 general aviation distributors and manufacturing companies. Represented were manufacturers of both OEM and PMA parts, and part distributors both large and small. This year ADMA celebrated its 70^th year. It’s my understanding the organization began as an effort to assist flight schools with much needed aircraft parts to keep civilian pilot training aircraft operating during World War II.  

Current president Mike Shaw opened the morning business meeting by recognizing numerous attendees on the number of meetings individuals have attended over the years. One attendee, Anthony Coletto, president Weldon Pump, Inc. received recognition for his 50th ADMA conference.

Attendees came from around the world and for me, my fourth conference, attending this event is always a wonderful opportunity to stay in touch with much of the general aviation industry. Of course as the industry goes these days, some companies indicated business was great, and others shared the reality of the economy today indicating business remains flat; little consistency in the answer to my question how’s business these days?

There’s many organizations in this industry and ADMA is one I gain greater appreciation for each time I attend one of their events.

Happy 70^th ADMA, Ron