"I like to walk by a booth, listen to what is going on and hear people telling their stories of what they are doing or making suggestions to suppliers on how to make a product better. There is the enjoyable aspect of networking, but you also have to pay for the trip, so for me it’s how to take advantage of things that I couldn’t do sitting at my desk. I search out the show specials and I personally like to buy there. Then there’s the education. You can just talk to people, see the enthusiasm and find answers that will help your business. It’s a great opportunity to get together. I find it very motivational and it makes me proud to be a member of the industry.”

— Ted Cook, co-owner,
Ventura Rental Center, Ventura, Calif.

“I go for the same reasons everyone else does — the exhibits, educational seminars and the opportunity to interact with fellow rental professionals. In addition, over the past few years I have come to really enjoy reconnecting with the American Rental Association (ARA) staff members. Our association has some truly amazing and dedicated people working for us. I wonder how many members take the time to stop into the ARA booths to meet them and learn what they do. ARA offers so many products and services that I feel it’s worthwhile to spend some of my time there.”

— Carol Frederick, president, Tel-Power Tool & Equipment Rental, Altoona, Pa.