Staying on the cutting edge requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation to the ever-evolving trends within the sweeping industry. The recent PAVE/X trade show by the PAVEMENT organization sought to equip attendees with tools for future success, but true prosperity demands a year-round dedication to education.
I started working with Schwarze Industries in 1987, when the Schwarze family owned it. The strategy for growth I brought to the table was an emphasis on providing education to their customers and prospects. Recognizing this, initiatives like the "Supervac Quarterly" newsletter, the groundbreaking Schwarze.com website, and sponsorship of my "American Sweeper" magazine in the 1990s were instrumental in catalyzing the company's expansion. These platforms not only disseminated information but also fostered a community of knowledge sharing among sweeping contractors and, later, with the public works community.
As technology advanced, so did the means of education dissemination. The inception of the World Sweeping Association (WSA) over a decade ago marked a new chapter in providing ongoing education for industry professionals. Through regular bulletins, interviews with successful contractors, and the vast repository of educational articles, handouts and safety information on the WSA website, members are empowered to stay abreast of legacy info along with the latest developments and best practices in the field.
The remarkable renewal rate of WSA memberships underscores the recognition among industry leaders that continuous learning is not just beneficial — but essential — for sustained success. In today's fiercely competitive landscape, complacency is not an option. Those who prioritize ongoing education position themselves to thrive, while those who neglect it risk being left behind.
Whether through avenues like the WSA or other educational resources, the message is clear: invest in learning year-round. The dividends of knowledge are invaluable, serving as a bulwark against obsolescence and a pathway to enduring prosperity in the sweeping industry.
