From the President of the SBC Board
Looking Back on 2018 and Ahead to 2019

Posted on December 20, 2018.
Jeff Hipchen, President, Board of Directors 

Jeff Hipchen

As we approach the end of the year I wanted to share some thoughts looking back on this past year and some of the exciting things planned for the upcoming one.

At the annual meeting I shared with all that the biggest impact the past year has been first the creation of the work groups and what each has done. You will read in more detail each of the Work Group's accomplishments in their respective areas but some highlights are: 

  • Codes- we had influence on numerous IFC and NFPA codes this year and influence on interpretation of the UL
  • Advocacy- there were over 25 events with you our members, over 15 industry events attended where we spoke, exhibited, or covered.
  • Education- efforts were undertaken to get industry recognized certification and training underway
  • Legislation- a group has been formed so that we can have influence and better understanding of laws and initiatives underway nationally that can impact our industry

As you know we did a survey of to get your feedback on how we're doing and areas for improvement, I want you to know we listened. One of the top priorities and already under way for the coming year is to establish an industry recognized training and certification programs. The newly established Legislative committee has already been very active with meetings with key congressional teams in December. We recognize the importance of staying relevant to First Responders, building owners and you our members in making buildings safer.