5 for 50: Five rubber industry associations you should know

As Rubber & Plastics News prepares to celebrate its 50th Anniversary, we're pausing to look at the rubber industry's unique history, its impact on our everyday lives and the people and companies who have helped to define it today.
In every issue leading up to our special 50th Anniversary edition on Aug. 9, we'll explore a new list of 5—businesses, discoveries and innovations, moments and organizations that have changed or are changing the industry. When our 50th anniversary issue arrives, you'll have a total of 50 companies, people, innovations and moments who have helped to define the last five decades.

1. ACS Rubber Division

With a history that extends more than a century, the ACS Rubber Division brings together rubber industry professionals from around the globe to connect, network, learn and build an all-around stronger industry through innovation and business growth.

Part of the American Chemical Society, the Rubber Division's initiatives provide opportunities for chemists, engineers, technicians, scientists, plant managers, sales and marketing professionals to grow professionally and bolster their careers.

Twice annually, the Rubber Division brings the industry together for technical conferences and industry honors. The annual expo, held in conjunction with the fall technical conference, is a premier industry event.

Annually, the organization honors some of the most distinguished professionals, businesses and academic work. The Rubber Division's highest honor—the Charles Goodyear Medal—recognizes those whose lifetime achievements have left the industry changed for the better.

To learn more about the Rubber Division, visit rubber.org.

2. ARPM

Established in October 2010, the Association for Rubber Products Manufacturers is dedicated to non-tire rubber products makers, providing them with the resources and connections they need to thrive. Membership is comprised of small manufacturers and multibillion-dollar conglomerates.

The association's core mission focuses on providing its member executives with waste reduction, benchmarking, networking, international management of product standards and educational opportunities.

To learn more about ARPM and its regularly updated list of education opportunities and events, visit arpminc.com.

3. NAHAD

The Association for Hose and Accessories Distribution is committed to providing businesses and professionals throughout the hose and hose accessories industries with the news, resources and tools they need to succeed.

NAHAD member companies span an array of specialties, distributing and manufacturing all types of hose, tubing, couplings, fittings, clamps and related accessories. Association member companies are committed to the NAHAD Code of Business Conduct, which promotes the highest levels of professionalism, product quality and ethical conduct.

Those association members who manufacture hose and assemblies that meet the NAHAD Hose Assembly Guidelines and meet additional criteria may become NAHAD Hose Safety Institute members, further enhancing the safety, quality and reliability of the products.

To learn more about membership benefits, learning opportunities or the association's annual conference, visit nahad.org.

4. NIBA—The Belting Association

NIBA—The Belting Association is committed to bringing together value-added distributors and manufacturers of conveyor belt components with the aim of enhancing technology, services and business practices industry-wide. In doing so, the association is committed to ensuring better service for end users of conveyor belt systems.

The association boasts more than 250 unique members, representing distributors/fabricators, manufacturers and affiliates of all sizes.

Training and educational opportunities are offered throughout the year, and also are part of the annual convention, which brings the industry together for networking and professional development.

To learn more about NIBA and the benefits of membership, visit niba.org.

5. USTMA

The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association is the national trade association for tire companies with manufacturing operations in the U.S. It is committed to being a premier advocate, voice and thought leader for the U.S. tire industry as it navigates a changing mobility landscape that requires new technologies, safety and sustainability focuses.

USTMA has more than a dozen members who represent some of the biggest tire brands worldwide. Member tire companies operate manufacturing facilities in 17 states, employ more than 100,000 individuals and generate annual sales of about $27 billion.

The USTMA is committed to four essential areas of focus: safety, sustainability, economy and innovation.

To learn more about the USTMA, its resources and its advocacy, visit ustires.org.