Meet the members of IFAI and hear about the benefits of membership in their own words. Members come from all over the world and from every market segment, and each brings a unique view on the industry.
Custom Marine Canvas
January 25, 2016
"IFAI membership is made up of large businesses, small businesses, manufacturers and suppliers. Everybody at the table has a voice—and an opportunity to impact the future of the specialty fabrics industry."
- Katie Bradford, owner, Custom Marine Canvas
IFAI member company Party Reflections Inc.
May 1, 2015
Dan Hooks propels his organization to new heights by maximizing regional opportunities and building a management team.
"Surviving the latest recession taught us several lessons about the financial health of our company and what we needed to change in order to go from surviving to thriving."
- Dan Hooks, CEO of Party Reflections Inc. , Charlotte, N.C.
IFAI member company Brown Sales Corp.
April 1, 2015
Father and son team Stewart and Ross Brown embrace the challenge of change by making the most of their strengths.
"We put a lot of value in IFAI Expo—the annual trade show. It’s a great time to connect with vendors and equally valuable is that it gives us an opportunity to observe what’s new in materials, hardware and equipment."
- Stewart and Ross Brown are president and vice president of Brown Sales Corp. , Madison, Wis
IFAI member company DOWCO
March 1, 2015
Charles Webster uses lean techniques to continuously improve production and efficiency.
"“IFAI Expo is world-class. And the marketplace IFAI creates allows information to flow freely to all members in regard to raw materials, products, services and practices.”"
- Charles Webster is the CEO of DOWCO®Inc. , Manitowoc, Wis.
IFAI member company Glawe Awnings & Tents
February 1, 2015
Vernon Schaefer sets trends while transitioning company leadership.
"I always learn something new when I attend IFAI Expo and the division meetings. And I tell anyone I take with me: Don’t talk too much. Listen. You’ll be surprised how much you're going to learn."
- Vernon Schaefer is the CEO , Fairborn, Ohio
Custom and hand made
February 1, 2015
Farmers try to make hay while the sun shines. So do marine fabricators in the northern tier of the U.S. For Al Sceiford, owner of Al’s Auto Trim and Upholstery in Erie, Pa., April to November is his chief harvest season; the other four months he’s pretty much hunkered down against the daunting Lake Erie winters. However, he still gets some marine upholstery work done in his indoor facility; it can accommodate boats up to about 24 feet.
IFAI member company Pinz Pty. Ltd.
January 1, 2015
David Snoad implements systems and empowers employees so his business can flourish—and he can take a vacation.
Everything’s connected
December 1, 2014
Mr. Sadao Izumi moves the tent industry forward—by keeping the big picture in mind.
Love what you do
October 25, 2014
A big risk turned out to be a big reward for Lake Shore Boat Top’s Kotowski.
IFAI member company Jacquart Fabric Products Inc.
October 1, 2014
Bob Jacquart expands his company and builds a strong brand identity.