TRA elects new chairman

Paul Baron of Gang-Nail ITW has taken over from Alan Howard of Aspect Roofing as chairman of the Trussed Rafter Association (TRA) for 2012.

The TRA is the voice of the trussed rafter industry in the UK and provides information on subjects as varied as technical building solutions to health and safety.

Mr Baron has an HND in civil engineering and an MSc in timber engineering. He began his career in South Africa after emigrating in 1976, working for structural steel and civil engineering contractors and for a truss plant before joining International Truss Systems, Gang-Nail's sister company, in South Africa. In 1994 he moved to join Gang-Nail Systems in the UK, working primarily on software specification, development and R&D projects.

In 1996, he became responsible for non-roof truss nail plates and then reintroduced metal-web beams, Ecojoist, into the UK in 2000. He was offered directorship of Gang-Nail Systems in 1999 and the role of managing director in 2005.

“As chairman of the TRA, I would like to see the association ensure that it truly represents the requirements and wishes of its members,” said Mr Baron. “I plan to increase membership and align the association more closely with our end customers, the housebuilders and their trade associations such as NHBC, Home Builders Federation, CIOB and RIBA.”