President’s Letter - September 2025

 

I intentionally held off writing this month’s letter until the Sunday before SUBExcel (sorry, Mary!). As I pack for what promises to be an unforgettable and record-setting week for ASA and SUBExcel, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. From Nashville, where Drew took that now-legendary spill on the electric scooter, to Las Vegas, where we suddenly found ourselves in the middle of a global pandemic, SUBExcel has always been about more than the sessions—it’s about the memories, the people, and the shared experiences that stay with us. This year will be no different, and I couldn’t be more excited to see what’s ahead.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Libby Hardy, Executive Director of ASA Oklahoma, along with her team, associates, friends, and family, as well as our national ASA staff. Together, you made Oklahoma City the place to be for construction subcontractors last week. From the workshops and speakers to the networking events and the OKANA resort, the entire experience was simply outstanding.

This year also marked the first time we introduced concurrent education sessions—an important milestone. By offering more variety in topics and formats, we gave attendees the ability to personalize their learning experience and align it more closely with their professional goals. It’s a great step forward in ensuring ASA continues to meet the diverse needs of our members.

September is Mental Health Awareness Month, but let’s remember that mental health deserves our attention every single day. Awareness campaigns are valuable for sparking conversation and reducing stigma, but true well-being requires ongoing effort. Stress, anxiety, and burnout don’t follow a calendar. By fostering open dialogue, practicing self-care, and leveraging professional resources year-round, we can build resilience, strengthen our teams, and create healthier communities. You’ll find helpful resources and links in this issue to support that mission.

Finally, fall is here—a season of change and renewal. Cooler air, vibrant leaves, and new school routines bring with them fresh opportunities for growth. Whether you lean into pumpkin spice or steer clear of it, may this season bring you a renewed sense of energy, balance, and inspiration.

Andrew V. Christ

ASA President ‘25/’26

president@asa-hq.com