WICA Leadership: Honoring Service, Embracing the Future

By Robert Bergman

Association Welcomes New Officers and Directors for 2027

Strong associations don’t happen by accident. They are built through the dedication, commitment, and leadership of individuals who willingly give their time, share their expertise, and work to advance an industry that means so much to all of us. The Western Insulation Contractors Association (WICA) has been fortunate to benefit from that kind of leadership throughout its history, and this year’s Annual Convention provided an opportunity to both celebrate those contributions and welcome the next chapter of association leadership.

During the convention, WICA members elected a new slate of officers and reelected several members of the Board of Directors who will help guide the association in 2027 and beyond.

Honoring Outstanding Leadership and Service

Outgoing WICA President Eric Sarmento of Farwest Insulation Contracting was recognized for his exceptional service, dedication, and commitment to WICA and the mechanical insulation contracting industry. Eric graciously agreed to serve an additional year as President, providing continuity and steady leadership during an important period for the association. His willingness to step up when called upon, combined with his thoughtful approach and genuine commitment to the success of WICA, exemplifies the very best of volunteer leadership. While his tenure as President ends, WICA will continue to benefit from his experience and perspective as Immediate Past President.

The convention also marked the retirement of Craig Rossi of PCI, who concludes an extraordinary two decades of service on the WICA Board of Directors. Twenty years of volunteer leadership is no small accomplishment, and Craig’s unwavering commitment, enthusiasm, and dedication to both the association and the industry have left a lasting impression. His contributions extend well beyond simply attending board meetings. Craig has been a valued voice, a committed advocate, and a steadfast supporter of WICA’s mission. His presence and perspective will certainly be missed, but his legacy of service will continue to be appreciated for years to come.

WICA also recognized Kenny Cole of Insul-Therm International for his outstanding leadership and support of the association after serving six terms representing WICA’s Distributor, Fabricator, and Manufacturer members. Kenny’s longstanding involvement reflects an exceptional commitment to the association and the important partnership between contractors and the companies that supply and support our industry. His contributions have helped strengthen those relationships and reinforce the collaborative spirit that makes WICA such a unique organization.

Welcoming WICA’s 2027 Leadership Team

Effective January 1, 2027, Steve Husbands of Farwest Insulation Contracting will assume the role of WICA President. Steve brings valuable industry experience, a strong commitment to the association, and an appreciation for the importance of collaboration among WICA’s members. His leadership will be instrumental as the association continues its work in labor relations, industry advocacy, education, and strengthening the relationships that are the foundation of WICA.

Joining Steve on the Executive Committee will be David Leialoha of Acutron, serving as Vice President, and Shawn Reichenbach of PCI, serving as Treasurer. Eric Sarmento of Farwest Insulation Contracting will round out the Executive Committee as Immediate Past President. Together, this leadership team brings a wealth of industry knowledge, experience, and commitment to advancing the interests of WICA’s membership.

WICA members also reelected three valued members of the Board of Directors: Shahram Ameli of Bayside Insulation, Robert Jeffries of PCI, and David Trueblood of Farwest Insulation Contracting. Their continued willingness to serve provides important continuity and reflects their ongoing dedication to the association and the industry.

Representing WICA’s Distributor, Fabricator, and Manufacturer members, Joedy Friemel of Aeroflex USA was elected to serve as one of three representatives on the Board of Directors. We welcome Joedy’s involvement and look forward to the perspective and experience he will bring to the board.

Also joining the board in an ex officio capacity will be Katie Hawley of Hudson Bay Insulation, who will serve as Chairperson of the WICA Audit Committee. Katie succeeds the late Patrice Reynolds of Farwest Insulation Contracting, whose service and contributions to the association are remembered with sincere appreciation. We are grateful to Katie for accepting this important responsibility and continuing the tradition of dedicated oversight and stewardship of the association.

Building on a Strong Foundation

Leadership transitions are an important part of any successful association. They provide an opportunity to recognize the individuals who have helped shape our organization while welcoming new ideas, perspectives, and energy for the future.

What makes WICA special has never been simply the programs we offer or the agreements we negotiate. It is the people behind the association — industry leaders who recognize that when we work together, share our experiences, and invest in the future of our industry, we all benefit.

To our outgoing leaders, thank you for the time, energy, and commitment you have invested in WICA. To our returning and incoming officers and directors, thank you for your willingness to take on the responsibilities of leadership.

WICA is stronger because of those who serve, and our future remains bright because of those willing to carry that commitment forward.