Sprinkler Age A Publication of the American Fire Sprinkler Association
Have you ever signed up for a gym membership—maybe even taken advantage of a free trial—only to cancel it a month later because you didn’t see the value? If so, you’re not alone. Many people walk away from memberships believing they “didn’t get anything out of it.” Association membership works the exact same way. The truth is simple: you can’t see value in something you don’t use.
Joining a professional trade association is one of the most strategic business decisions a company or individual can make. Yet too often, members miss out on the return on investment (ROI) because they never fully tap into the resources, relationships, and opportunities available to them. A common trend I’ve noticed when reviewing members who don’t renew is that they never utilize their membership. Never attended an event, never signed up for a webinar or training, nor did they leverage technical services. Value doesn’t work that way. ROI is a result of action.
Our members have access to training, technical guidance, professional development, industry advocacy, and invaluable networking opportunities—but many of these benefits go unused. The key to seeing real ROI is not simply joining—it’s engaging.
An association membership is more than a listing, a badge, or a logo to place on your website. It is an active tool that, when used intentionally, can save your company money, enhance your industry knowledge, expand your network, and strengthen your business operations. Just like a gym membership, the benefits exist—but only those who show up truly benefit.
When members participate in association activities, the value compounds quickly. Those who attend meetings, participate in training, ask questions, network with peers, read industry updates, and utilize technical resources consistently report that their membership pays for itself multiple times over.
The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) offers premier technical and educational programs designed to elevate industry standards. Companies that take advantage of these training opportunities often see measurable improvements—fewer installation errors, stronger compliance practices, and better-prepared employees. When you compare the cost of training internally to the discounted or complimentary training available through AFSA, the savings alone can justify the membership.
AFSA’s Engineering & Technical Services team is one of the highest-rated benefits among engaged members. Whether interpreting standards, navigating complex design questions, or resolving code issues, having access to seasoned experts can save countless hours and prevent expensive mistakes. Yet many members are surprised to learn how often they can use this service—and how impactful it is.
Your membership helps support critical advocacy efforts at the national, state, and local levels. AFSA works to ensure fair regulation, promote safety standards, and champion the interests of fire sprinkler contractors. This behind-the-scenes work has a direct impact on business operations across the country—even for members who may not realize how much they benefit from it.
One of the most underestimated values of association membership is access to a national network of industry peers, leaders, suppliers, and innovators. This network extends far beyond simple introductions—it creates opportunities for collaboration, problem-solving, and shared growth across the fire sprinkler industry. Many companies have found trusted business partners, long-term mentors, skilled employees, and even new customers simply by showing up at AFSA events or engaging through local and national chapter activities. These connections often lead to conversations that spark new ideas, uncover solutions to common challenges, and strengthen professional credibility. Networking opens doors—doors that remain closed without participation—and helps members stay connected to both the people and the opportunities shaping the future of the industry.
Whether it’s event registrations, training programs, publications, or advertising opportunities, AFSA members receive reduced rates designed to support their success. Some members recoup their dues entirely through discounts alone—again, only when they actively take advantage of what is available.
•Identify your goals—training, compliance support, networking, recruitment, or business growth.
•Match those goals with AFSA programs that support them.
•Assign a staff member to manage your membership and ensure your company is connected to all available benefits.
•Attend one event, whether virtual or in-person, to start building peer connections.
•Utilize at least one key service each month, such as technical review, member discounts, or online learning.
Over time, engagement becomes a habit—and value becomes visible.
Association membership, especially within AFSA, is a powerful investment in your professional success and your company’s future. But like any investment, the return is only as strong as the effort you put into it. Membership alone doesn’t create value. Engagement does.
When you show up, participate, and take full advantage of the resources available, your membership becomes not just worthwhile—but indispensable.
ABOOUT THE AUTHOR: Meda Merritt, CAE, is vice president of membership and chapter development for the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA). In this role, she manages its overall membership recruitment and retention efforts, supports the development and growth of AFSA’s chapters and affiliated state associations, and works to increase the association’s visibility within the industry and to related industries. Merritt obtained her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tulsa. She is a member of ASAE, and DFWAE, where she serves as chair of its IDEA Committee and a member of its Membership Committee. Merritt earned ASAE’s CAE certification in 2024 and was awarded DFWAE’s Wayne James Award for recruitment.