Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1532052
14 SMT007 MAGAZINE I FEBRUARY 2025 in-between phase. We don't ever want to just get rid of a chapter; that's the worst possible scenario. is is a go-between, so we can help them either rebuild or form into a chapter. Is there a checklist to help an alliance group become a chapter? Do you offer coaching and resources? Yes, absolutely. Chapter leaders have access to an "officer" section of our website where we offer quite a few resources. It includes an offi- cer handbook that has all the forms for tran- sitioning to a chapter and for how to manage events. In fact, it has everything you need to operate a chapter. Obviously, those of us at SMTA HQ are a resource as well. We are always working to keep the docu- ments updated. Another major project for us last year was to verify that all the documents were up to date. We also have a membership toolkit for officers to use. Leaders can download all our membership PowerPoints, videos, and materials to use at their meetings. We really do have quite a few resources for them. at's the main source of information and tools for the officers if they need anything. How are you quantifying your goals for growth? We are tasked with expanding into India, and our goal is to have four events in 2025 to raise awareness there. ese events will mostly be managed by headquarters. We also have a new alliance group forming in Korea. Our goal is to ensure that our current alliance groups get the attention they need and that they are strong and supported. We're care- ful not to overexpand because groups can fail when they don't get the support they need. What are SMTA's current workforce develop- ment activities? e goal is to get more engagement from students and young professionals and then encourage them to join the chapter officer teams. In addition, I need to hear from them: What educational topics and events are they interested in? How do we get them more involved? We did a few fun things for students and early career professionals at SMTAI. For instance, we did the "40 under 40" program, which was a huge success, and we were ver y excited to get many of the students and young professionals involved. We are intent on giving them more recogni- tion and letting their voices be heard because that's the future. We always need more young people. I frequently hear from companies that they are having a hard time filling open posi- tions, and we want to help with that. Building a relationship with a student chapter at a local university is yet another avenue a company can use to find good talent. Yes, absolutely. Thank you, Alicia. Great, thank you. SMT007