Chris Brisbane and the Value of PTRA Membership

Chris Brisbane, CPMR, credits his membership in PTRA as a key factor in his agency's ability to navigate industry changes and the evolving landscape of the rep profession. As the incoming president of PTRA, Brisbane reflects on the agency's history, founded by his father in 1978, and its long-standing association with PTRA since 1979.

Brisbane praises the professionalism of PTRA members, noting their ethical business practices and active participation in the association. He highlights the benefits of networking and learning from other reps, which have significantly contributed to his agency's success and adaptation to market changes.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the clear benefits, Brisbane acknowledges the challenges in communicating the value of PTRA membership to both existing and prospective members. He emphasizes the importance of involvement in association activities and committees, which he believes offers substantial returns on investment.

During the economic downturn, Brisbane's agency continued to prioritize its PTRA involvement, a decision that has paid off with the economic recovery. He also discusses the significance of the CPMR designation, which has enhanced his networking opportunities and provided insights into common challenges across various industries.

Professional Growth and Agency Evolution

With nearly three decades of experience, Brisbane has seen his agency grow and adapt. The agency now boasts a diverse client base and has expanded its services to meet changing customer needs, particularly in response to downsizing trends among clients.

Looking ahead, Brisbane anticipates further changes driven by advances in communication technology, planning to stay ahead of the curve to meet future customer needs effectively.

The PTRA File

The Power-Motion Technology Representatives Association (PTRA), founded in 1972, supports independent manufacturers' representatives and principals in the power transmission and motion control industries. With a membership of 150 independent representatives and 50 manufacturers, PTRA focuses on enhancing the value of the rep-principal relationship and maintaining the integrity of the profession. The association offers a range of services, including educational opportunities, a quarterly newsletter, and legislative advocacy.

For more information, visit www.ptra.org.