“How do we get more members into CSI?” CSI member Ken Lambert asked in a recent CSI-Connect post here at CSIResources.org.
Lambert suggests one way is by attracting contractors from the architecture, engineering, construction, and owner (AECO) community to join the association at the local, chapter, and national level.
CSI would benefit from their membership and industry knowledge, Lambert says, and the contractors would gain professional relationships with designers, architects, product reps, and vendors.
CSI members agree. In a real-time conversation on the CSI Community page, participants came up with the following four suggestions on how we can all help welcome contractors to the association and increase the value of this professional network for us all.
1. Leverage the CDT® and Networking Opportunities
“It would be great to have more contractors involved with CSI. The CDT® certification can be a great introduction to CSI (although you don't need to be a member to earn the certification). As well, educational programs and networking opportunities with other members of the design and construction team, including the product reps, is very valuable. Perhaps if each one of us were to reach out to a contractor (GC or sub) and personally invite them to a meeting (even as our guest), that would be a good start.”
Lee Ann Slattery FCSI, CDT®, CCPR®, LEED AP
2. Engage Contractors at the Chapter Level and Partner with Industry Groups
“CSI needs more contractor involvement and membership. In our Detroit Chapter we have reached out and engaged contractors in chapter meetings based on owner, architect, contractor forums, and these have gone over well. Although I have to say, I do not think we have membership on the contractor side yet, or it is minimal. I think a drive should start with the large professional organizations like MIM, ACI, and AISC, and getting some of those organization members joining CSI.”
William Jensen BA, CSI, CDT®, CCCA®, USGBC
3. Make One-on-One Connections
“The number one-way CSI has always gained new members is through members inviting and encouraging people to join. The people are colleagues, workmates, friends, and project partners. As with any type of member you’d like to add, think of the contractors you know. Think about the local construction firms. Look at their websites and personnel and pick some you think you would be interested in CSI. Invite them to meetings. Be sure to welcome and introduce them to others. Contractors are a natural fit in CSI. They bring a lot of experience and knowledge to the mix.
Bryan Varner FCSI, CDT®, CCCA®, LEED AP
4. Reach Out to Women in Construction
“I am surprised no one has mentioned PWC (Professional Women in Construction) and NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction). These organizations seem like worthy candidates for growing our membership. All the women to whom I’ve spoken have expressed interest in collaborating in this endeavor, and they have chapters across the country. This coming October there will be a national conference for Women in Construction that our leadership might benefit from attending (https://tinyurl.com/4xdvjfyh).”
Clifford Marvin, Professional Content Designer
Join the conversation on how CSI increase the representation and involvement of this important segment of the AECO industry.