Having Fun Doing It!

by Jill Tuggle, ABAT Executive Director

Wow! I can’t believe this year has flown by so fast! They say time flies when you’re having fun, and we are doing just that!

In fact, I was reading through Chasidy’s cover story (see page 16) where she talks about ABAT’s 10-year journey, and something caught my eye: My quote from when I was first hired by ABAT in 2017. With ABAT being so new, we had no history or expectations for what I would be doing for the association – it was a “take it as it comes” kind of thing. My quote was, “My vision for ABAT is to grow our association and be a unified voice for Texas. We will bring education, government affairs, communication and industry networking, and we will have fun doing it.” I am proud to say that seven and a half years later…CHECK! We are doing all that – especially the last part. 

Fun fact: In addition to being the executive director of ABAT, I’m also a party planner. Yes, I know that auto body and party planning are a natural pairing (just kidding). But if you have ever attended any ABAT event, you would see where the party planner side of me steps in and creates experiences that are unique to our industry. 

I want to take a moment to let you in on some of the events we have planned for ABAT through the end of the year:

September 28 – ABAT’s Fall Celebration, San Antonio. Come for an evening of food and fellowship with a special presentation on ABAT’s current initiatives as well as what we are gearing up for in 2025. Food, margaritas, music and TONS of amazing door prizes. 

October: Be on the lookout for a webinar – announcement coming soon!

November 14 – ABAT’s Top Golf FUNdraiser, Houston. I will also be traveling to SEMA that month to scout classes, speakers and new tools to bring back to you all at the next Texas Auto Body Trade Show.

December: ABAT will be announcing the premiere of a NEW look! It’s a secret for now, but get ready for a SERIOUS membership upgrade for 2025!

That’s all for now, but just remember that every ABAT event promises to deliver both heavy-hitting education and little fun twists along the way. 

Want more? Check out the September 2024 issue of Texas Automotive!