The Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA) is rolling out a long-term strategic plan focused on safety-based accreditation, state-level advocacy, insurance solutions, and developing the next generation of industry leaders. In a recent interview, SIMA’s Martin Tirado shares how these initiatives aim to protect contractors today while strengthening the future of the snow and ice industry.
The Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA) is entering a new phase, one that places sharper focus on safety, advocacy, leadership development, and long-term sustainability for contractors across North America.
Snow Plow News recently sat down with Martin Tirado, executive director of the Snow & Ice Management Association, to discuss SIMA’s newly announced long-term strategic plan and what it means for snow and ice professionals operating in an increasingly complex environment.
Raising the Bar on Accreditation and Safety
At the core of SIMA’s strategy is a renewed emphasis on company accreditation and professional standards. According to Tirado, SIMA is doubling down on accreditation programs that are rooted in safety and best practices, including a salt applicator certificate.
Advocacy Shifts to the State and Provincial Level
Another major pillar of the plan is advocacy, specifically at the state and provincial level. While federal policy often dominates headlines, Tirado noted that many of the most impactful legislative and regulatory decisions affecting snow contractors are happening closer to home.
SIMA is now organizing grassroots groups made up of members and volunteers who want to engage directly with lawmakers in their respective states and provinces across the U.S. and Canada.
There are real legislative challenges coming and if contractors want a seat at the table, now is the time to get involved.
Addressing the Insurance Crisis
Insurance availability and affordability has become one of the most pressing issues in the industry. SIMA has been holding in-depth discussions with insurance carriers to better understand, and help address, the rapid rise in premiums and the growing number of contractors being priced out of coverage altogether.
“We’ve had in-depth meetings with insurance carriers to resolve the insurance problems with rapidly increasing premium prices while other companies are being completely priced out and not able to get insurance.” Tirado said. “We’re working to be part of the solution.”
The Role of the SIMA Foundation
Much of SIMA’s research and workforce development work is powered by the SIMA Foundation, the association’s independent charitable arm. Funded entirely through donations from suppliers and individuals, the Foundation supports industry research, education, and leadership initiatives.
Among those initiatives is SIMA’s recently completed profitability study, a financial benchmarking tool that allows contractors to compare their performance against industry peers. The study, along with other research and programs, is provided through the Foundation.
Investing in the Next Generation
Looking ahead, SIMA is placing significant emphasis on leadership development. The association recently launched an emerging leaders program called Accelerate, designed to help prepare the next generation of snow and ice professionals.
“Our goal is to help people see that snow and ice isn’t just a job,” Tirado said. “It’s a real career with long-term opportunity.”
By combining accreditation, advocacy, research, and leadership development, SIMA’s strategic plan reflects a broader vision: building a more resilient, professional, and sustainable snow and ice industry.
As Tirado summed it up, “We’re focused on the future, on training the next generation of leaders and giving today’s contractors the tools they need to succeed.”
For more information visit www.sima.org.