Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM MARCH 2025 32 B ig things are happening at the United Appliance Servicers Associa- tion (UASA) in 2025. Two industry veterans are stepping into key leadership roles, ready to bring fresh energy and a new vision to the organization. Wendy Parker is taking the reins as the new executive director, and Dave Smith has been elected president. With their combined experience and passion, UASA is gearing up for an exciting future. WENDY PARKER: UASA'S NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Strong leadership is the backbone of any great association, and Wendy Parker is no stranger to steering organizations toward success. With over 25 years of experience in nonprofit management, she has the skills, know- how, and enthusiasm to take UASA to the next level. Before joining UASA, Wendy led the Florida Solar Energy Industries Association (FlaSEIA), where she supercharged membership growth, launched a wildly successful annual trade show, and established the organization as Florida's go-to voice for solar energy advocacy. Before that, she spent 20 years with the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA), working her way up to executive director, where she managed a team of 10, oversaw a $1 million trade show, and implemented membership initiatives. Wendy earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Marketing from Florida Southern College and holds credentials as a Certified Exhibition Manager (CEM) and Accreditation in Public Relations (APR). She's committed to making UASA's internal operations more efficient – think modern digital tools, streamlined workflows, and improved communication. That means faster responses, better support, and an all- around stronger organization for its members. DAVE SMITH: UASA'S NEW PRESIDENT AND INDUSTRY CHAMPION Every great association needs a leader who truly understands the industry, and UASA has found that in Dave Smith. As the owner of Dave Smith Appliance Service, Dave has 32+ years of industry experience. But he's not just running a business – he's been an integral part of UASA for years, helping the association grow and evolve. Since becoming vice president in 2014, Dave has led initiatives that have had a major impact. One of his biggest contributions has been the Most Professional Servicer Contest, where he boosted participation to an average of 90 entries annually. Thanks to his leadership, the contest attracted major sponsors like CheckMyBadge.com, PlusOne Solutions, Miele, AirSled, and ServicersWeb, providing participants top-tier recognition and prizes. Dave has also played a crucial role in growing ASTI (Annual Service Training Institute) and helping launch the new TechConnect initiative in 2025. TechConnect is set to transform the trade show floor, connecting attendees directly with 23 top manufacturers for real-time learning and networking opportunities. As president, Dave's priorities include expanding UASA's membership, making ASTI bigger and better, and fine-tuning operational processes to serve members more effectively. His vision is clear: provide more training, build stronger industry partnerships, and keep UASA at the forefront of professional development for appliance service providers. ON THE HORIZON The association is gearing up for a full revamp of its website, designed to enhance user experience and provide better access to resources and tools for members. In addition, updated membership options for industry partners will offer new ways to engage with the community and maximize value. For those looking to get more involved, expanded volunteer oppor- tunities will make it easier than ever to contribute to UASA's mission and help shape the future of the appliance service industry. And for those who can't get enough of TechConnect, great news – it's expanding and will be back in 2026. With Wendy Parker's strategic expertise and Dave Smith's deep industry roots, UASA is on track for an exciting future. Their leadership will drive new initiatives, strengthen member engagement, and create fresh opportunities for appliance service professionals across the industry. Christina Kraker is the COO of ServicersWeb, a marketing agency specializing in in-home service companies. Since 2019, she has contributed to workforce development as a member of the SkillsUSA Technical Committee and continues to support the industry as a contributing partner with the United Appliance Servicers Association. www.servicersweb.com S E R V I C E D E P A R T M E N T RO EXCITING LEADERSHIP CHANGES The United Appliance Servicers Association WENDY PARKER DAVE SMITH

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