HPBA turns its focus to the next generation of industry leaders. The new group, called HPBA Young Guns, represents professionals under the age of 40 or those who have been in the industry for less than 5 years.

The Young Guns’ mission is to provide educational, networking, social, and training opportunities at both the national and affiliate levels of HPBA, as well as, to foster leadership and collegial relationships. Young Guns hopes to help recruit new people into the industry, as well.

The committee, which is co-chaired by Nick Bauer, Empire Comfort Systems Inc., and Linsey Fluty, Ray Murray, Inc, hope to get young professionals more involved in the organization as a whole, with a focus on more active participation within their local affiliate communities. As such, there are currently 12 committee members; 11 who are representative of each U.S. HPBA region and two so far in Canada. Also active on the committee is Rodger Holland of Supreme Wood Burning Fireplaces, who serves as the HPBA Board liaison.

“Young Guns is a great way for younger hearth and barbecue professionals to get the exposure in the industry that they need to advance within their careers,” says Bauer. “It is our hope that this group will not only provide professional development opportunities, but also great networking amongst its members, and with the HPBA membership as a whole.”

Young Guns has big plans for the near future like a mentoring program which would pair a more seasoned professional with a Young Gun, a monthly newsletter, and education programs tailored toward “Young Gun” interests and needs.

HPBA has been very encouraged by the enthusiasm surrounding the Young Guns program. It has so far had two very successful HPBExpo receptions in 2011 and 2012 and an outpouring of interest to serve on the committee.

The Young Guns plan to utilize social media to convey information as well as to create informal gatherings throughout the year. Those interested can follow the Young Guns on its newly-created Facebook Page – HPBA Young Guns or email youngguns@hpba.org for more information.