Greetings MBEs

As we move into the second quarter of 2011, it's good to reflect on areas that yield the results we need for continued success.

One area of focus should be the Rocky Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council.As we look at the activities and changes that have been announced from this organization over the past four months, we see a clear trend of growth and development that will provide our MBE community with additional opportunities to network, build connections and position our companies favorably for economic sustainability and growth.

One such activity was the recent Business Opportunity Fair.  This event brought forth renewed emphasis on showcasing our capabilities.This event always puts into perspective the critical skill in marketing "what we do" and in networking "with whom."

The recent announcement by the U. S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency about the location of a new center in Colorado signals strategic thinking and partnering with other agencies to further the goals of the Rocky Mountain MSDC.  Taking bold steps, thinking out of the box and pursuing joint efforts are models for MBE's to emulate as we seek to step up our game and capture economic gains for our businesses.  Let's be responsive and support this new center and take advantage of the expertise and strategic business consulting that provide insight on access to markets, contracts and capital.  

The MBEIC has being working on enhancing the New MBE Orientation to reflect a stronger emphasis on "How To Do Business With Corporate Members."  This tool will provide a checklist of suggested areas to have ready and available when meeting corporate members at Access Opportunity Meetings and other Rocky Mountain MSDC events.

Don't forget to keep your email addresses current and check the Rocky Mountain MSDC website.  The business after hours, a host of Access Opportunity Meetings, and the annual Golf Event will be happening soon.  You don't want to miss out on any event where you have the ability to network and connect with our corporate members.

Spotlight on Communications Test Design, Inc. (corporate member)

CTDI provides Integrated, One-Stop Service Solutions to the global telecommunications industry.  Our solutions leverage 35 years of industry-leading engineering and repair capabilities, high-volume inventory management and logistics expertise supported by customized web-based IT systems and applications.

About George J. Ehrgott, Materials Sourcing and Diversity Manager for CTDI

George J. Ehrgott is the Materials Sourcing and Diversity Manager for Communications Test Design, Inc. Since being founded in 1975, CTDI has become the largest independent telecommunications repair service provider by being an innovative and industry-leading supply chain partner to carriers and OEMs around the globe. George started with CTDI in 1980 when they were but a small business and has grown with the company - being responsible for the development of the Purchasing Department, Materials Management Group, and Supplier Diversity Programs. He is responsible for a staff of 20 with a total spend of over $173 million.

George has a BS in Management from West Chester University and a Masters Degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He holds a lifetime Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M.) certificate from the Institute for Supplier Management. He is an active member of ISM's Minority/Women Business Development Group in the Philadelphia area (past Chairperson and Secretary), Board member of the Minority Supplier Development Council of PA-NJ-DE (NMSDC affiliate), an active corporate member of the Women's Business Enterprise  Council (Philadelphia area WBENC partner), Chairperson for the 2005 Supercomm Diversity Summit, and 2006-2008 Co-Chairperson of the Telecommunications Industry Group in the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC).

2011 NMSDC Minority Business Leadership and Dinner Dance  

May 18, 2011

2011 NMSDC Conference to be held in Atlanta, George

Two of Rocky Mountain MSDC-certified MBEs won top honors on May 4, 2011:

Minority Owned Business of the Year nominees:  Sky Blue Builders and Triunity Engineering & Management 

The David E. Bailey Award:  Richard Lewis of RTL Networks, Inc.  

Congratulations to the winners!