Message from the President

I hope this message finds you well.
 
As I think about the past few years, I can’t remember a time of greater turbulence and continual change. It seems we never get to rest, or coast even a little. We have faced a challenging economy, turbulent worldwide events, supply chain issues, political instability, the final throes of a pandemic, skill shortages, and the list goes on and on without end. I know we are all hopeful that 2023 will finally bring some improvement and greater stability, and yet we know that this year will likely bring its own challenges.
 
As a CIO, one thing I’ve come to learn is that when faced with a difficulty or constraint, hidden within there is often the opportunity to be creative and overcome. Often our companies turn to us, the technology leaders, to overcome challenges as well as, to enable and drive change and growth. As we look forward to the challenges ahead in 2023, I encourage all to seek the opportunity within the challenge.
 
As you face the challenges in the year ahead, please remember that you are part of the FWSIM community – a strong network of senior technology executives and leaders that can provide wisdom and experience when you need it most. Through the turmoil of the past few years, I personally have come to value my relationships at FWSIM more than ever. Similarly, I’ve heard from many of you that the networking, relationships, and friendships you’ve come to cherish in the FWSIM community have never been more valuable. I thank you all for being there for me and for each other!
 
Remember to take advantage of the many valuable offerings at FWSIM to connect, including our monthly programs, POD meetings, members in transition meetings, mentoring circles, the cybersecurity special interest group, scholarship programs, in person networking meetings, and our LinkedIn site to name a few.
 
I also want to take a moment to thank our board who tirelessly volunteer their time to help the FWSIM community thrive. I especially want to call out the many years of contribution of a few who have left the board. Our sincerest thanks go out to Susan Certoma, Sigal Zarmi, Beverly Lieberman, and Colette Rubio. Their wisdom and leadership on the board will be missed.
 
Please know that I am fully committed to our continued success and growth, and the board and I are available to you if you have thoughts or feedback to share – please take advantage of our post meeting surveys, email us at membership@fwsim.org or reach out to any board member personally. 
 
In closing, I want to thank all of you for your membership and engagement in our chapter activities. It is the active engagement of our membership that brings the greatest value.  Please check out our Events Calendar. Mark your calendar and make every effort to attend when you can. I look forward to seeing you throughout the year!

Vinny Licht, FWSIM President
Email: vinnylicht@gmail.com