Social media has been full of discussions regarding “IPMS judging” following this summer’s wonderful IPMS/USA National Convention in San Marcos.  These social media and IPMS Discussion Forum debates are not new; judging has always been a topic that brings out the passion in modelers. There is always fervent support on either side of whatever judging issue is being discussed.  We want you to know we are listening and appreciate and are inspired by your passion for the hobby, and any constructive feedback.

As an example, in response to feedback from the membership the Executive Board voted unanimously to swiftly address the issue of judges handling models during contest evaluation a few days ago.  This practice will no longer be allowed as a part of IPMS/USA judging rules and is a good first step in what we believe to be the right direction.

The Executive Board and the National Contest Committee have received feedback from other individuals that point out other potential issues and incidents during the contest judging this year.  These issues and incidents range widely, from accidental damage of entries during evaluation, to questionable disqualifications of entries, entries that were not judged, to suggestions of favoritism.  Because the NCC is an IPMS/USA committee accountable to oversight from the Executive Board on behalf of the membership, the Executive Board is working together with the NCC to investigate and evaluate each of these concerns.  Together, we will work towards solutions to improve our judging processes and rules as needed to provide for a fair, equitable and safe competition for our members and their work, in an environment of mutual respect. We will report back to the membership with our findings and the results as soon as we can.

Additionally, based on feedback from the membership, the Executive Board will be partnering with incoming NCC members and volunteers from the membership at large to perform an extensive review of our current judging criteria, rules, and practices, and evaluate suggested ideas and alternatives. The incoming members of the NCC have indicated a willingness to work towards improving our judging systems while staying within current and projected logistical limitations.  Together, we will move forward with plans and best practices to provide the best possible convention and contest experience for our current and future IPMS/USA members.

Again, your feedback is important, and we are listening.  Thank you for your membership and your continued support and confidence in the leadership of IPMS/USA.

The Executive Board of IPMS/USA

David Lockhart – President
Phil Peterson – 1st Vice President
John Bonanni – 2nd Vice President
John Figueroa – Director of Local Chapters
Mike Oberholtzer – Treasurer
Ro Annis – Publications/Historian
David Knights – Recruitment and Retention
Rob Booth – Secretary