Words of Advice

Ten years ago, I asked the Wisconsin Towing Association board members what advice they would give to other towers. The following are some of their responses. I believe they would hold true today:

Always keep a positive image to make our industry look as good as possible. Train and certify your drivers, and give other towers a hand instead of putting them down and letting them fail.

Use common sense, be safe, and watch your back at all times.

 Be open to working together with fellow towers. We’re stronger together than when we stand alone.

Hard work reaps rewards. Always respect those who brought this association and industry where it is today, without them, we wouldn’t exist. Appreciate your peers, and their past.

Hang in there, it is hard work, but rewarding.

Take advantage of the experience of others, listen to them and be professional.

The association is a good way to network, meet others in our industry, share stories, get advice and build business and personal relationships.

Always keep in mind how dangerous this job is and protect yourself and those around you. Safety first.

We need to continue to pass legislation and keep a positive image for towers. Become more involved with your state association.

Communicate with one another. Keep your record clean, your service good and reliable – include your family.

I always felt that if I helped a fellow tower solve a problem, it helped him, the industry and me — even though he was my competitor. 

The theme of safety and working together to better each other and the industry seems to be a common thread, and with all of this good advice, it brings to mind the quote: “Knowledge itself is power.”