The CPIA leadership team is excited to introduce two new roles within the association: Peer Group Liaison and Membership Liaison. These roles are designed to further the CPIA's commitment to its members and industry partners by strengthening connections, ensuring communication continuity and enhancing member experience.
“One of the things that has always set the CPIA apart is the people behind it. As our organization continues to grow and mature, it’s important we find meaningful ways to keep experienced leaders engaged — especially those who have poured decades into this industry and still want to contribute,” said Aaron Moore, President of PPD Painting and Co-Founder of the CPIA.
The CPIA is privileged to announce the appointment of Leslie Nash West as Peer Group Liaison and Burt Whitenight as Membership Liaison.
“I’m especially grateful that Leslie and Burt — both long-time industry leaders who are transitioning out of day-to-day business ownership — have agreed to step into these roles,” Moore added. Their experience, perspective and commitment to this industry make them a tremendous asset to the CPIA and its members.”
As the third-generation owner of W.W. Nash and Sons, West has earned her status as a distinguished leader. Through her involvement with industry associations and publications, she is known as an advocate for professional excellence and for raising the bar in the painting industry. West has been a member of the CPIA since its inaugural event and has ensured her family’s legacy remains at the forefront of modern trends and best practices by actively participating in her CPIA peer group.
In her new role, West will act as a key resource for peer group leaders looking to increase the efficacy and value of their meetings. In preparation for the role, West received training and certification from the prestigious International Facilitators Organization. Groups will enjoy access to newly curated tools, exercises, and frameworks, enhancing the impact of each meeting. She will also assist individual members who wish to join a peer group, ensuring they are placed in the best-fitting group.
Whitenight brings more than 30 years of experience in the painting and waterproofing industry as a sales leader, executive and coach. Known for his relationship-driven approach and practical sales execution, his career spans leadership roles with Flex Bon Paints, The Sherwin-Williams Company and Service Contracting Solutions, where he rose to Executive Vice President/Partner and led high-performing sales teams on complex commercial projects. He remains deeply engaged in the industry through board leadership with the Gulf Coast Builders Exchange and ongoing coaching work with McBrayer & Associates.
In the age of AI, Whitenight is bringing a personal connection to members and those interested in membership as CPIA’s new Membership Liaison. By connecting them with appropriate people and the educational tools they need, current and future members will have a trusted resource to navigate membership benefits and gain peak value.
If you’re a current CPIA member looking to explore peer groups, reach out to Leslie West at leslie@thecpia.com. If you are looking to make the most of your membership or considering joining the CPIA, contact Burt Whitenight at membership@thecpia.com.
