by Cathy Peirick, Member Services Director

Last month in San Antonio, we tipped our hats to new faces and longtime members alike at the Supply Summit & Showcase—and the First-Time Attendee Reception was one for the books. With nearly 100 attendees, including 30 first-timers, the room was buzzing with energy, handshakes, and conversations that sparked real connections.

Our speed networking session was fast-paced, friendly, and full of opportunity. In just a short time, attendees made meaningful introductions, swapped stories, and built relationships that will last well beyond the event.

And we’re keeping that momentum going.

Launching this April, the ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ (FEMA) is proud to introduce our new Mentor Program—designed to help new members get oriented and make the most of their membership. From navigating events to building connections and finding the right resources, our experienced members are ready to help. If you’re interested in becoming a mentor, please email Cathy@FarmEquip.org.

Here’s to strong starts, new connections, and a community that continues to grow—one handshake at a time.

by Cathy Peirick, Membership Director

FEMA’s 2026 membership focus is simple: strengthen the association by showing up where the industry does business—and by making membership value clear and measurable.

Over the next few weeks, Joe Sampson and I will be connecting with current and prospective members at three major events: Iowa Ag Expo in Des Moines (February 3–5), National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville (February 11–14), and Commodity Classic in San Antonio (February 24–27). At each show, we’ll visit with member companies, meet prospective members, and schedule short check-ins to gather feedback on what companies need most this year—whether that’s marketing support, stronger supplier connections, or help navigating industry challenges.

These shows are also a great opportunity to talk one-on-one about FEMA programs and highlight practical member benefits that support growth: connections across the supply chain, education and webinars, timely industry updates, and marketing exposure that helps members get noticed by dealers and end users.

Beyond trade shows, FEMA is taking a strategic, long-term approach to recruitment and retention. The Membership Committee and the Supplier Board of Governors are working together to roll out our 2026 initiative, themed “Cultivating Connections. Growing Our Industry Together.” Priorities include improving onboarding and engagement for new members, reinforcing value for existing members, encouraging peer-to-peer connections and mentorship, and strengthening collaboration between manufacturers and suppliers.

If you’ll be at any of these events, please stop by and introduce yourself. Your perspective helps shape where FEMA goes next—and together, we’ll grow our industry one connection at a time.

Since joining the ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ in June, I have been busy learning about the industry, meeting current members, and recruiting new members. It has been so much fun traveling to the various farm shows and getting to meet our wonderful members and listing to their suggestions on what types of education opportunities and benefits would help them become even more successful.

From October 1 – November 15, 2024, FEMA held a membership referral drive. We received numerous referrals from that effort which has given me a starting point for a member prospect list. I’d like to say a big “THANK YOU” to everyone that participated!

Now that the holidays are over, I will be back on the road visiting members at the upcoming shows: Iowa Ag Expo (Feb. 4-6), National Farm Machinery Show (Feb. 12-15), and Commodity Classic (March 2-4). I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

Dear Members,

As part of our strong community of more than 650, your membership in the ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ (FEMA) offers you more than just a connection to manufacturers, suppliers, and wholesalers. It provides you with a competitive edge and a wealth of opportunities to grow your business and develop your team.

But let me ask—are you truly taking advantage of all the benefits your membership has to offer? Here’s a quick reminder of some of the benefits available:
• Convention Networking: Our conventions provide members with invaluable chances to exchange innovative ideas, and form strategic partnerships that elevate their businesses to new heights.
• Exclusive Savings: Enjoy complimentary one-hour consultations with attorneys specializing in labor law and dealer contracts.
• Discounted Event Access: Save on registrations for our Spring and Fall Conventions, where you can network with key industry players.
• Tailored Insurance: Benefit from a Sentry insurance program designed specifically for the unique risks faced by farm equipment manufacturers.
• Preferred Partner Perks: Take advantage of special pricing and expert support through our Endorsed Services/Preferred Partners programs.
• Leadership Opportunities: Join one of our committees or councils to raise your profile and influence industry decisions.
• Enhanced Resources: Take advantage of educational and industry insights, safety standards and a state buyback and warranty database. Stay informed with Shortliner, published 20 times a year, packed with news and resources that matter most to your business.

Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to connect with peers, learn from experts, and find new business opportunities. That’s why I’m personally inviting you to our upcoming Marketing & Distribution Convention in Addison, TX, this October. It’s the perfect chance to immerse yourself in education sessions, meet potential business partners, and leverage the resources that will elevate your business.

Have any questions or suggestions about your membership benefits? I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out to me anytime at Cathy@FarmEquip.org.

I look forward to seeing you in Addison, TX!
Sincerely,

Cathy brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles with various associations and member-based organizations in the St. Louis metro area. Most recently, she served as Member Services Manager for the American Soybean Association where she managed the database and assisting the state affiliates with their dues billing process. Just prior to her departure, she was implementing a new association management system to streamline operations. Additionally, she has held positions with the American Optometric Association and the National Association of Electrical Distributors.

“We are happy to have Cathy on our team,” said Steve Hathaway, FEMA Executive Vice President. “Her extensive experience is certain to have a positive impact on our membership recruitment efforts. I look forward to working with Cathy in quickly driving towards our membership growth and retention goals.”

Cathy is eager to connect with members at farm shows and the upcoming Marketing & Distribution Convention in Addison, TX.

“I am thrilled to be a part of the FEMA team,” Cathy said. “I look forward to meeting our members and enhancing their experience with FEMA. I welcome their thoughts and ideas on our current membership offerings.”

Feel free to reach out to Cathy at Cathy@FarmEquip.org.