As Sylvia Newell marks her remarkable 13-year anniversary with the Canadian Association for Railway Suppliers (CARS), we take a moment to reflect on the journey, contributions, and future plans that have shaped her tenure at the helm of our dynamic organization.
Career Journey:
Sylvia's journey at CARS began in an era when our organization was undergoing transformation. With limited events and a modest membership, she stepped into the challenge of expanding CARS' footprint in the industry. Over the years, we've witnessed significant growth, with the membership nearly tripling to 165. Sylvia reminisces about the early days when the focus was primarily on the supplier suite and membership dues. Fast forward to today, and CARS has become a beacon for the railway industry, offering a diverse range of events and initiatives.
Key milestones include the introduction of National Railway Day and an annual golf tournament, both of which have become hallmark events eagerly awaited by our membership. Sylvia's strategic decisions and calculated risks have propelled these events from concepts to significant milestones.
Reflecting on her journey, Sylvia notes, "The most memorable moments stem from seeing these initiatives come to fruition. Taking calculated risks, often with limited resources, has resulted in the growth of these events into significant milestones that all members eagerly anticipate."
Contributions to CARS:
In her role, Sylvia has made substantial contributions to both CARS and the railway industry. Collaborative efforts have significantly influenced the association's expansion and facilitated the recruitment of a dedicated team. Her leadership has ensured that CARS delivers enhanced value to its members.
Recognizing her limitations in navigating the realm of social media, Sylvia strategically brought on board an individual well-versed in logistics and algorithms. This addition proved instrumental in elevating CARS' online presence, contributing to an enhanced profile within the industry. Sylvia shares, "Being part of CARS' growth has been incredibly rewarding. We've evolved into a dynamic organization that serves as a vital hub for the railway industry, and I'm proud of the role I've played in this journey."
Industry Involvement:
Sylvia's involvement in the broader railway industry has been marked by a commitment to advancing the interests of CARS members. She has fostered collaborations and achieved milestones that contribute to the overall growth and well-being of the railway industry.
Professional Growth:
Sylvia's professional background as a software developer has played a pivotal role in her success at CARS. Drawing on the foundation of logical thinking and methodological approaches ingrained in software development, she has been able to effectively incorporate changes, evaluate risks, and implement strategies with a careful and considered approach. Throughout her time at CARS, Sylvia has experienced substantial professional growth, attributed to the diverse roles she has undertaken within the association. This multifaceted experience has not only broadened her skill set but has also deepened her understanding of the intricacies of association management.
Reflections and Future Plans:
As Sylvia celebrates her 13-year anniversary, her primary objective is to steer clear of complacency and enthusiastically welcome the changes and challenges that the future presents. She is steadfast in her commitment to maintaining a dynamic approach, ensuring constant readiness to adapt to the evolving landscape of the railway industry.
"My dedication lies in contributing meaningfully to the progress of the industry by actively engaging with its ongoing transformation. In the spirit of maintaining an air of mystery, I regret to inform you that unveiling the upcoming projects is strictly classified – think James Bond level secrecy!" jokes Sylvia.
For our members, she encourages them to hold onto their hats and stay tuned for the grand reveal. And for those not yet part of our exclusive members' club, Sylvia highly encourages them to hop on board the train, assuring them it's a ride they won't want to miss.
Here's to Sylvia Newell's 13 years of dedication, innovation, and leadership at CARS, and to many more years of success ahead!