VMA Reflects on 2022 Accomplishments

2022 was the start of VMA’s implementation of the newly adopted Strategic Plan, and no time was wasted getting underway! 

Education and networking have been and will continue as a core component of VMA.  2022 marked the return to in-person for all of VMA’s events except for the Market Outlook Workshop, and not surprisingly education and networking continue to be the top reasons participants tell VMA that they attend VMA’s events. VMA continued with its virtual learning program launched during the pandemic, with the Virtual Valve Basics program and 5 webinars held throughout 2022. In total, over 840 participants took part in VMA events in 2022.  Here are a few highlights of what those individuals experienced and thought about the events:

• 100% of survey respondents for the Annual Meeting and Market Outlook Workshop recommend the event to colleagues
• Excellent line up of speakers
• Topics were robust and informative
• Great networking meeting new co colleagues and renewing old acquaintances

VMA’s first “Fly-In” to Capitol Hill took place in the Spring, meeting with six congressional offices. A guide for our members to use while meeting with elected officials at their facilities was also made available.  

To help spread the word about the industry, this past year VMA was proud to offer scholarships to four deserving students who are exploring education related to our industry and whose parents or guardians work for a member company. 

VMA was spotted at two events this year - the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) where we visited with potential members and at the international Valve World Expo.  This was the first time that Valve World was held in Dusseldorf, Germany since the pandemic and while there was a notable absence of Asian companies the industry exhibitors showcased plenty of new products and technology. One theme seen at many booths was a focus on sustainability and carbon reduction and how valves and actuators can help with both. VMA also met with the other international valve associations and agreed to share information going forward.

VALVE Magazine reached 18,713 print and digital subscription readers in 2022. Additionally, our social media presence grew to 14,730 Linked In followers. In both cases many of these are end users as well as manufacturers, suppliers and distributors.

VMA is proud to welcome 14 new members in 2022, and thanks all of the VMA members for their participation, expertise and support. None of this is possible without our member companies and the individuals who contribute their time and expertise to VMA and the industry. 

Thank you all and have a happy holiday season and prosperous New Year.