Columbia, MD – The Restoration Industry Association held its first-ever, invitation-only Leadership Summit involving RIA leaders and certificants, as well as prominent individuals from within the industry May 7-8 in Silver Spring, Md.

The first day featured a keynote address by Chuck Rumbarger, president of the Organization Guidance Group, on leadership and the power of associations. Robert N. Bradshaw, Jr., CEO of Independent Insurance Agents of Virginia, discussed how to understand the basics of legislative issues. And RIA’s Executive Director, Donald Manger, facilitated the discussion of how to use the power of associations to effect positive legislative changes for an industry. Day two saw an overview and discussion of RIA’s Certified Restorer program.

“This event exemplifies the role of associations within an industry,” said Manger. “It also incorporates our mission to provide industry leadership and promote best practices for cleaning and restoration.”

“RIA members have a renewed enthusiasm and energy about their association,” said RIA President Rusty Amarante, CR. “We want to work collectively as an association and collaboratively with other organizations for the good of the entire industry, and this Summit is a great first step in that direction.”