The Power of Connection: How ICA Fosters Strategic Partnerships and Industry Growth

 In an industry where collaboration can shape policies, shift procedures, and elevate standards, networking isn't just a bonus—it's a necessity. At the Insulation Contractors Association of New York (ICA), connection is more than a monthly gathering; it's about building something bigger than ourselves.

"There’s a great line: ‘Rising tides raise all ships.’ I think we all make ourselves better contractors by learning and sharing information," says Don Donelley, ICA President.

Power in Proximity

For insulation contractors, staying connected with peers and even competitors helps companies navigate evolving Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA) and union laws, share best practices, and raise the bar on safety, compliance, and craftsmanship.

"The exchange of ideas is important to us," notes Chris Grando, ICA Vice President as well as Vice President of IAR. "Being able to give our ideas and get feedback—when we recognize an industry problem, we can bounce ideas off each other and get creative… to come up with creative solutions. Being part of that membership is important for us."

ICA's commitment to fostering meaningful connections enables members to:

> Influence policy through collaborative action.
> Anticipate and address industry-wide challenges effectively.
> Form strategic partnerships that drive innovation and growth.

"The larger companies at the table aren’t doing anything that’s self-serving; they're doing what’s great for the industry," explains Al Duranti, ICA Member and owner of Gateway Insulation, Inc. "There are no decisions made in that room that are good for just one company and not anyone else; they're made for the betterment of the industry as a whole."

He adds, "You won’t regret putting the time in. It will have a substantial positive impact on your business."

Expanding Influence Through Industry Partnerships

ICA members benefit from a variety of formal and informal networking opportunities throughout the year.

Whether you're seeking mentorship, camaraderie, industry education, business development, or simply a space to talk shop, ICA makes it easy to be involved:

 Monthly Member Meetings: These are open, solutions-focused forums where every member has a seat at the table.

• Annual Conference Participation: ICA attends and supports members in attending national and regional conferences like:

National Insulation Association (NIA)

 Eastern States Insulation Contractors Association (ESICA)

National Union Insulation Contractors Alliance (NUICA)

• Affiliations with Key Industry Organizations: ICA proudly partners with a wide range of organizations that promote advocacy, education, and workforce advancement, including:

Building Trades Employers’ Association (BTEA)

Subcontractors Trade Association (STA)

Helmets to Hardhats

ICA offers reimbursement to members for conference-related expenses because we believe that investing in connection and education  is an investment in the future of the insulation business.

A Seat at the Table — For Everyone

“As a member of the ICA, whether you’re a large contractor (we’re kind of one of the larger ones) or a small contractor, everyone has a vote, and you work on problems that help everybody,” says Karen Grando, CEO of IAR. “Everybody is treated fairly.”

ICA members represent companies of all sizes,  from small family-owned shops to large, multi-state operations. What unites them is a shared belief that collaboration, not competition, builds a stronger industry.

Ready to Get Involved?

If you're a contractor or business leader in the insulation industry looking for a network that champions collaboration and forward progress, ICA is your place.

Explore upcoming ICA meetings and events at icanyc.org or contact us to see how you can take part in shaping the future of our industry.