SN-ICC Silver Anniversary Takes a Look Back at the Chapter's History
This is the fifth part of a multi-part series of articles on the history of the SN-ICC Chapter starting with its inception in the 1960s as a chapter of ICBO.
Part 5, EduCode Matures "After 7 + years of working as the chairman and lead for EduCode," said Franklin, 'it was my idea to step down and develop a means by which the elected executive board would provide lead for the committee and future growth of EduCode. I felt this important because while I had ideas and missions and goals, I did not want EduCode to become just what I and a few long term committee members saw for it. So we developed a turn-over of duties in its 8th year and the executive committee began direct involvement to provide steering for its continued development and growth. I remained actively involved for a few more years with the committee and running a management track before mostly stepping aside. This allowed me time to actively participate as a member of the National Education Committee for ICC, where I served for four years. "We addressed many problems and concerns thru the development and growth years of EduCode." Franklin continued, "but I firmly believe that through the strong commitment of each jurisdiction's Building Official to allow participation of their employees as committee volunteers, we accomplished many great things with very little funding. That, and adherence to our established ideals and goals, allowed us to each year grow and become more of a professional presentation. I fully believe that the professionals that continue to work in the SNICC will continue with this diligence and only improve upon the program. "Again," said Franklin, "we started on a shoestring. I remember signing the first contracts with ICBO for their instructors and just their costs far exceeded the total savings of the Chapter. Through special arrangements with the Riviera we were able to defer all costs until after the seminar when we had collected the attendance fees. But there were days that I was pretty nervous. "There are so many people that made EduCode what it was and is today and to try and name them all is not within my scope today. But it is thru such dedication of volunteers and professionals committed to technical growth and knowledge that will carry this program forward. "I will end my recollections with that it was always a privilege to serve both the local and national chapters of ICBO and ICC. I met so many professionals that were strongly committed to ensuring building safety throughout our country and the world. Franklin named several people he thought deserved special recognition for their contributions over the years. They were: "First," said Franklin, "both Bob Weber and Ron Lynn fully supported my actions and allowed me some of the time necessary to complete the arrangements. Also, the one committee member that was with me and all future committee chairs was "Wild" Bill the gas man! From our first arrangements with the Riviera, to developing the logo, to creating a website and ultimately an on line registration, he served tirelessly. It was great to have an industry rep alongside during these development years," Franklin concluded.
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