On a rainy Monday morning in November, I chose between two different outfits. I spent extra time on my daily grooming, and I inhaled the fresh smell of a new bag I’d purchased. Before we left home, my child suggested we take a video to mark the occasion. I even brought cookies for the others sitting at their desks.

This was my first day at Advanced Textiles Association, launching my tenure as Senior Editor of Marine Fabricator. Doesn’t it feel like the first day of school when you start a new job? Fortunately, my courseload isn’t entirely unfamiliar: I spent three years writing for a trade magazine covering recreational boat dealerships, during a time when my face betrayed fewer smiles.

That said, having written about the boating industry and now writing about marine fabrication is like saying “I’ve taken a math class before” when I’ve just signed up for trigonometry. Textiles and fabrics are entirely new to me, and that is exciting. I’ve taken voracious notes and highlighted several questions to ask when I raise my hand.

I’d hoped those of you in this industry would be open to showing me the ropes and making connections—after all, no one wants to sit alone in the cafeteria. After my first Marine Fabricators Conference in January, I can confidently say that I felt welcome at every single table. Those of you who attended were warm and inviting—it felt like I’d been here for years.

For those who couldn’t make it, we have several pages devoted to conference news. We also announce all the 2025 MFA Fabrication Excellence Award winners. Make sure to mark Jan. 8-10, 2026, on your calendar and join us in Savannah, Ga.!

You’ll also find great articles on zippers (featuring conference speaker Mike Charlton of Charlton’s Marine Canvas in Yorktown, Va.), patterning and installing carpets, weatherproof screened frown windows and tapping into your creativity.

I hope I can be a good steward for our industry. Any time you have feedback, ideas or questions for me, I’m ready to listen.