Travis Foth, Director at CFMA Orange County, joined Rosendin Electric as its regional controller in 2016 after a nine-year tenure at Gelman LLP. A licensed CPA, Travis has devoted his career to optimizing financial outcomes within the construction context. He’s been a member of the CFMA since 2012. 

Soon into his journey with the Orange County CFMA, Travis immersed himself in the regular luncheons and quickly volunteered to serve as chapter treasurer. He held the job for three years, and credits that time with supercharging the value he gets from the organization.

We spoke with Travis about his experience with the Orange County chapter and how it’s impacted his life as a professional, friend, and leader.

A day as a director

Travis knows Orange County CFMA’s committees and boards well. During his tenure he has been secretary, vice president, president, and immediate past president. His time as treasurer was the catapult towards climbing the ranks and familiarizing himself with the ins and outs of the organization and its members.  

“We typically want someone to serve as the treasurer for an extended time,” Travis tells us. “It’s a big commitment. I made it a personal goal to remain active in hopes that it would encourage others to do the same.”

Now, Travis uses the knowledge he’s accumulated over the years to advise the board, assist the membership committee, and help the Southwest Regional Conference team.

“I’ve appreciated my time spent in various positions because now when someone proposes an idea, I am in a place to say, ‘We’ve tried that in the past, and here’s how it went.’”

We grow as time passes

Travis says more volunteers are always needed, specifically within the committees. “There are many new faces in the Orange County CFMA community this year,” Travis says. “When we started, membership was about 130 people. Now, we’re closer to 180.”

But the head count isn’t the only thing that has grown. The leadership team has also focused on adding quality content for members and nonmembers online, expanding event offerings, and adding more educational luncheons. “We’ve done a great job of producing quality content, which is beneficial for current members, and shows potential members what we’re all about,” he says. “We’re always seeking new, hot topics to present at a luncheon and actively think outside the box to add fun networking activities to the calendar.”

The goal is to provide members with opportunities to grow as individuals. For Travis, studying for the CCIFP—in Europe with his wife and with the help of CFMA’s The Book—and passing, inspired him to give back to the community and teach the CCIFP course to others.

There is a place for you at our table

Participating in the regular rotation of events or luncheons is the best way to feel the welcoming “vibe” of the Orange County community. Travis tells us that these have helped him grow in being more social, teaching more classes, and harnessing the power of learning from others. 

“When you go to luncheons, you learn a lot and have a built-in sounding board of peers to learn from. You can reach out to someone in the OC CFMA and they’ll be willing to help,” he explains.

“Without CFMA, I’d be missing out on a family. The way people here care about each other is really special,” Travis says. “I’ve noticed a different kind of inclusivity from everyone that you don’t get just anywhere.”

Come along for the ride

Beyond the local Orange County chapter is the national CFMA, where similar events are offered, bringing members from around the county together. Travis hopes to continue growing towards more strategic decisions and better business acumen, both with his Orange County family and at the national level.

Are you seeking a tight-knit group of other construction financial professionals? The Construction Financial Management Association is the only organization of its kind, and there is always an extra seat at the table.”

You can find Travis on LinkedIn. And while you’re there, don’t forget to look at the latest posts from the Orange County Chapter of the CFMA, or view membership options by visiting our website. We hope to hear from you soon!