IFAI Honored Life Member Status awarded to 6 leaders
03 Nov '07
5 min read
Six respected leaders in the specialty fabrics industry have been awarded Honored Life Member status by the Industrial Fabrics Association International this year.
John H. Kirk, CEO, The Astrup Co; Olof Martensson, president, Sunair Awnings; Robert Helmsing, MFC, IFM, vice president, Lawrence Fabric Structures; and Motonobu Nohmura, executive vice president, Taiyo Kogyo Corp; Darlene Miller, MFC, co-owner, Sunmaster of Naples Inc; Gerry Power, president, Trican Corp, all were awarded the prestigious designation after being nominated by their peers and approved by the Industrial Fabrics Association International Board of Directors.
Recipients of the Honored Life Member status must have been active in the specialty fabrics industry for at least 25 years and been a member of IFAI for a minimum of 15 years.
Through this designation, recipients are recognized for their outstanding work and exceptional achievements in the specialty fabrics industry and their involvement and service with IFAI.
John Kirk was nominated by Ocie Ford, IFM, Glen Raven Inc. for his 37 years of leadership. "John Kirk could be called a 'Map Maker.' During his entire career he has documented the best practices of running a business so others don't have to reinvent the process and can instead spend more time improving it," said Ford.
Kirk created efficient strategies that allowed Astrup to provide high-quality products and services at fair prices, and on-time accurate deliveries. Kirk served two consecutive terms as Associate Director on the IFAI Board from 1985-1991.
Olof Martensson was nominated by John Caporaso, The Astrup Co in recognition of over 50 years of excellence. Caporaso said, "Martensson has been instrumental in the development of the modern retractable awning industry, both in Europe and the United States."
Martensson brought retractable awnings to the Scandinavian market during the mid-1960s, then to the United States in 1977. He has conducted many seminars on awnings, including IFAI Expo seminars, and has been a member of IFAI for 30 years.
Robert Helmsing was nominated by Kevin Yonce, MFC, IFM, TCT&A Industries, who said, "Bob's efforts and contributions have helped to strengthen our industry." When Helmsing first bought Lawrence Canvas in 1977, they did not produce awnings. Helmsing expanded the company, and it now produces fabric structures, awnings, metal structures and graphic-applied products.
During his over 20-year membership with IFAI, he has been active in IFAI programs, presenting at industry events, earning certification and going on to judge certifications.
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