Emerging Leaders Drive Networking at Recent SBCA Meeting with Pinewood Derby

Barry Dixon, Jim Finkenhoefer, and Parker Dixon represented BeLit and True House at SBCA’s May Open Quarterly Meeting (OQM). The group agrees that Williamsburg, Virginia was a beautiful backdrop for a well-attended meeting as more than 120 component manufacturers and industry suppliers gathered to network, learn from one another, and further the priorities of the organization’s board and committees.

Parker says he particularly enjoyed his second OQM as a new member of SBCA’s Emerging Leaders Committee and continued to feel welcomed by the group. Traditionally charged with organizing teambuilding and networking activities for association events, the Emerging Leaders delivered once again with the first SBCA Pinewood Derby. “The race was a huge hit with great camaraderie,” Parker reports. “The derby opened the door to easily network with new faces in the room. I met several new individuals who were great to get to know better.”

Pinewood Derby cars at start line
Group of SBCA members at OQM dinner in Williamsburg

“There is a long list of notable people retiring from the board this fall, many with decades of experience in SBCA leadership,” says Barry, as he reflects on his own long history with the organization. “It’s cool to see the younger members taking the helm.”

Parker will be the third generation of Dixons to be involved with SBCA, and Barry says it makes him feel really good to see him developing relationships in the industry the same way he did over 25 years. “It’s important stuff,” says Barry. “As the organization becomes more member driven, it’s great to see the old guard mixing so well with the younger members as they bring their new, fresh ideas to the table.”