Reflecting on 2025 and Charting a Strong Path Forward

One of my favorite times of year for VMA is the Annual Membership Meeting. It provides an invaluable opportunity to meet with members, understand the issues they face and discuss how VMA can continue to be a strategic partner. It is also a time to learn from experts, recognize those who contribute to VMA and reflect on our progress and direction.

As we look back on 2025, it is clear the year began differently than expected. Tariff actions created immediate uncertainty for manufacturers, distributors and suppliers across the U.S. and Canadian valve and flow control sectors. These shifts affected sourcing strategies, customer relationships and long-term planning almost overnight. While this disruption was not how we hoped to start the year, I am proud of how VMA responded — by providing timely updates and reliable information when members needed it most.

Government affairs remained central throughout 2025. VMA amplified our industry’s voice on tax policy, workforce development and PFAS legislation at both the federal and state levels. We joined association partners to support national initiatives for R&D and CapEx expensing, expanded pathways for certifications and training, met with policymakers on Capitol Hill, and submitted letters outlining how workforce, tax and PFAS actions impact our industry. These efforts reinforced VMA’s role in shaping policies that affect member competitiveness.

Our events, education and networking programs also delivered strong value. Valve Forum expanded its content in partnership with the Valve Repair Council (VRC), while Valve Basics and our webinar series reached professionals across all levels. The Annual Meeting, Market Outlook Workshop and Valve Repair Seminar highlighted the importance of connection and shared learning.

VMA’s media and communications platforms saw meaningful growth as well, with more than 550,000 website impressions and over 17,000 LinkedIn connections. We also welcomed Heather Gaynor, who will continue as editor of Valve Magazine and help guide our next phase of outreach as VMA’s Marketing & Communications Director.

This year included significant progress on refreshing the VMA Strategic Plan for 2026–2029. A comprehensive membership survey provided valuable insight into which programs members rely on most — and where VMA can expand offerings in technical content, workforce development, market intelligence and government affairs, and in enhancing our membership community. More information on this effort will be shared early next year.

I extend my sincere gratitude to the many members who volunteer their time on VMA committees, and offer heartfelt appreciation to our outgoing Board members — Kirk Wilson, Dave Loula and Alex Alcala — for their years of service, guidance and commitment, and Cliff Smith from the VRC Board. Their leadership strengthened the entire association.

As we move into 2026, we carry forward a solid foundation, clear priorities and a shared commitment to advancing our member companies and the broader valve industry. Thank you for your engagement, partnership and continued trust in VMA.