2023 Outstanding Service Award: Barry Theal, CD-SV, RIT

Congratulations to the winner of the 2023 Outstanding Service Award, Barry Theal, CD-SV, RIT! This award is presented annually to a detailing industry professional who works above and beyond to advance the detailing profession and the IDA. We spoke with Barry to learn more about what this recognition means to him.  

International Detailing Association (IDA): What does this accomplishment mean to you?
Barry Theal (BT): I must admit, it caught me way off guard when my name was mentioned. Being amongst my industry peers when this was presented was an honor. It reminds me how far our industry has come, and yet there is so much more to do. It's a humbling experience to know that my perseverance for a better industry is paying off. It's one of the biggest highlights of my detailing journey.  

IDA: How long have you been in the industry? How did you get involved?
BT: I got involved in the industry in 1993, part-time after school. It wasn't something I had ever dreamed of doing for a lifelong career. I looked at it as a nice gig to make a few dollars. To my surprise, here I am 30 years later, living my best life in this industry.

IDA: Who inspires you the most in this industry? 
BT: This is such a hard question to answer. I've had so many people who influenced me in such a positive way over the years. There are way too many people to list for my success. If I had to choose one person, it would be a group. It's the industry peers who come to me for advice. These people are my motivating factor today. Throughout my career, I have been blessed in so many ways. To be in a position where you can give back, educate, and mentor is exactly where I always wanted to be. I want you to know that knowledge not shared is wasted. I get a huge feeling of accomplishment when I see others experiencing the same success I have, especially those I have mentored. 

IDA: What would you say is the key to your ongoing growth and success in this industry?
BT: The willing desire to keep an open mind, but more importantly, my openness to share what I have learned. 

IDA: What words of wisdom would you like to impart to your fellow detailers?
BT: We live in an industry that is evolving fast. I often see detailers trying to keep up with what others are doing. In doing so, they're wasting time not focusing on their business. If I could make one suggestion to any of my peers, it's to set realistic, attainable goals and chase them.

Also, I want to thank The International Detailing Association for the recognition. Our industry is a better place because of those who dedicate their time to the IDA.

*The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the IDA.