As the shocks of the terrorist attacks on September 11 continue to permeate through the American economy, the materials handling industry must start to prepare for an economic rebound that may be strong and surprising. As this is being written, the stock markets are moving upwards as investors realize that even such catastrophic events as the destruction of the World Trade Center does not stop Americans from buying food, automobiles, appliances, homes, and tickets to movies and concerts.

The nation's biggest retailer, Wal-Mart, announced it intends to build 200 new stores and open seven distribution centers! As you read this, airplane traffic and hotel occupancy rates will be moving towards normal patterns.

A recent article from the Wall Street Journal stated "Companies that hired during downturns in their industries saw better stock-market performance two years after recovery, according to a recent study of so-called counter-cyclical hiring. Many such companies hire for hard-to-find skills while laying off in other areas, says Charles R. Greer, associate dean for graduate programs at Texas Christian University and a study co-author."

The message is clear: you must be ready, both emotionally and professionally for great change in the country, mostly for the better. The materials handling industry has always been part of the backbone of the American economy and can expect to participate in our nation's recovery.

As a materials handling professional, one of the best methods to prepare for change is to join the Materials Handling & Management Society (MHMS) and to involve yourself in both chapter activities (a great networking vehicle) and the training programs leading to certification as a Materials Handling Professional.

In fact, there are programs already in place to help you do just that. MHMS offers a two-tier certification program. One option is to become a Certified Professional in Materials Handling. The other is to become a Professional Certified in Materials Handling. The former is more general while the latter requires more detailed design and equipment application knowledge. Obtaining the certification at either level distinguishes you as a holder of a demonstrated level of competence in materials handling operations. These programs and others like them from MHMS are all part of your preparations for change in this country that I was talking about earlier. I hope you take advantage of the resources available to you through the Society.

Professional Activities is the official publication of the Materials Handling & Management Society.

For membership, access the Society's home page on the World Wide Web at www.mhia.org/mhms

or contact Bobbie Curtis
Executive Director of MHMS
phone - 704/676-1183
8720 Red Oak Blvd., Suite 201
Charlotte, NC 28217-3935