DCA Meets in Arizona for its 2022 Annual Convention
The Distribution Contractors Association (DCA) held its 2022 convention in February in Phoenix, Arizona, at the architecturally influenced Frank Lloyd Wright Arizona Biltmore Resort.
Considering events are still in the process of phasing back to life since the COVID-19 pandemic, the attendance was strong at over 400. Since 1929, this landmark hotel has provided for a unique atmosphere for its visitors. DCA took advantage of this to hold its business and networking events.
Ben Nelson, Michels Pacific Energy, outgoing president of DCA oversaw the convention with the assistance of Jon Heinen, Right Turn Supply, convention program chairman.
Speakers included Christina Sames, American Gas Association, who presented a recap of natural gas accomplishments in 2021. DCA has joined with AGA in working with Natural (Gas) Allies—For a Clean Energy Future, a coalition of interested stakeholders that recognizes the role natural gas plays in our infrastructure energy mix.
Eben Wyman of Wyman Associates who represents DCA’s interest in Washington D.C., advocated for DCA members to get involved in DCA’s Muster program. Muster is a platform for DCA members to message state and federal representatives about their business issues.
DCA’s Trenchless Technology Committee panel discussed HDD concerns (l-r) Dustin Kraft, Vermeer; Rob Hotz, Laney Directional; Chad Davis, Miller Pipeline; Rob Tumbleson, ECI Contracting; Dan Carson, Carson Corp; and John Bentley, InfraSource.
The newly named Trenchless Technology Committee (previously HDD Committee) met to address major issues on HDD projects, including geotechnical bores, design surprises, drilling fluid disposal and hauling, etc. As at every convention, the annual scholarship auction was a huge success raising over $600,000. Ritchie Bros Auctioneers again assisted.
At the final banquet, the 2022 DCA president was introduced—Kevin Parker, Mears Holdings. Next up, DCA’s mid-year meeting is July 18-21 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho and the 2023 convention is in Miami Beach, Florida Feb. 20-25.
