TopTec Products in Moore, S. C. He’s worked in the rental industry and been a member of ARA since 1989. During that time he has been a great supporter and ambassador for the association.

Tharpe served as an associate member director on the ARA board of directors from 2009-2011. He’s participated in many ARA committees including The Rental Show Task Force, Exhibitor Advisory Committee, ARA Insurance Risk Management Committee and is a frequent speaker at The Rental Show.  TopTec Products has exhibited for more than 25 years and is a longtime sponsor. Tharpe also has supported the Events & Tents program at The Rental Show as a sponsor, attendee and presenter.

In addition, Tharpe has completed numerous presentations on tent training and staking at many ARA events at the local, state and national levels and works to build ARA relationships with those in the industry. He has a passion for people and a passion for the rental industry, with a willingness to assist when asked and go above and beyond in his efforts to advance the industry.

Tharpe also is a strong ARA Foundation and ARAPAC supporter. He has attended several National Legislative Caucus events on behalf of the industry and lobbied on many issues with members and state association leaders.

Outstanding Leadership Award

Recipients of this award have demonstrated superlative leadership at the grassroots level – state, local or provincial. This year’s recipient, Robert Nally, is president of Apache Equipment Corp. in Phoenix, which has been a member of ARA since 2004.

Nally has served on the board of ARA of Arizona since its inception in 2010 and is currently president. He was instrumental in the activation of the state association, working on the initial revitalization meeting, the grassroots efforts to obtain a board of directors, completing the state association by-laws and scheduling member meetings.

Member meetings for ARA of Arizona have been successful to draw members from throughout the state and to attract members and non-members due to the program content. The association began with 44 members and is now at 47 members and growing. It fully participates in all ARA programs and activities.

Nally will continue to serve as president of ARA of Arizona in 2012 and will provide his leadership to the board and membership for an active and engaged association to benefit members.