Page 26 - WBG March 2025

100 YEARS

The Road to Our Centennial:

What makes a global association

successful?

By Past President Mike LaCorte

The private investigation industry thrives on integrity, 3. Commitment to Learning and Growth
adaptability, and collaboration. For any investigation association
to not just succeed but endure for a century, it must be built The investigative world never stands still. Technology, fraud
on strong foundations and continuously evolve. In 2025, the tactics, and legal landscapes evolve constantly, and if we
World Association of Detectives (WAD) will celebrate an don’t evolve with them, we fall behind. That’s why WAD has
incredible milestone—100 years of excellence! This isn’t just always prioritised education, from expert-led sessions at our
a number; it’s a testament to the resilience, dedication, and conferences to informal mentoring among members. Our
camaraderie that have defined WAD through the decades. centennial conference in Chicago will be a showcase of thought
leadership, with global experts sharing insights that will keep
We’ll be marking this momentous occasion at the WAD us all at the cutting edge of intelligence, security, and
Centennial Conference at the historic Drake Hotel in Chicago investigations.
from September 2-6, 2025. It will be more than a conference—it
will be a reunion of friends, colleagues, and mentors who have 4. Leadership That Builds Legacies
built careers, businesses, and lifelong friendships through this WAD has flourished because of the vision, resilience, and
association. WAD has always been more than just a professional commitment of its leaders—past and present. I’ve been
organisation; it’s a family. And as we celebrate our centennial, fortunate to work alongside some of the most dedicated
we recognize that we stand on the shoulders of those who professionals in this industry, people who have given their time,
came before us, those who shaped WAD into what it is today. energy, and expertise to ensure WAD remains relevant and
forward-thinking. But leadership isn’t just about maintaining
Notably, WAD joins the Association of British Investigators tradition—it’s about preparing for the future. That’s why WAD
(ABI) as one of the only investigative associations to reach the actively encourages members to step up, join the board, and
prestigious 100-year mark. Having had the honour of serving take on leadership roles. The future of this association depends
as WAD President and now as the President of ABI, I’ve seen on fresh ideas and new perspectives, and I have no doubt
firsthand the unwavering dedication of our members and the that the next generation of WAD leaders will take it to even greater
lasting impact of strong leadership. So, what does it take for an heights.
investigative association to reach such an incredible milestone?
5. Real Value for Members
1. A Strong Ethical Foundation
An association is only as strong as its members. If people don’t
Trust is everything in our industry. A successful association feel connected, supported, or valued, they won’t stay. WAD has
must hold itself to the highest ethical standards, ensuring its always provided real benefits—whether it’s through mentorship,
members do the same. WAD has always upheld a clear code professional opportunities, or simply the sense of belonging
of ethics, rigorous membership vetting, and a commitment to that comes from being part of something bigger. I’ve personally
professional integrity. This isn’t just about rules—it’s about enabling gained lifelong friends and business partners through WAD, and I
a culture where integrity is non-negotiable. That trust is why WAD know many others have as well. That’s what makes this association
members turn to each other time and again for collaboration and truly special.
support.
6. Financial Sustainability and Smart Governance
2. A Global Community with Local Impact
Reaching 100 years isn’t just about having great people; it’s
WAD’s strength comes from its reach. It connects investigators also about smart management. WAD’s financial stability is a
across borders, facilitating knowledge exchange and cross-border direct result of responsible governance, ethical financial
cooperation in ways no single firm or individual could achieve management, and generous sponsorships from members who
alone. But what makes WAD truly special is that it’s more than believe in its mission. These resources ensure that WAD can
just a network—it’s a fraternity. We don’t just work together; we continue leading the way, offering top-tier events, resources, and
support one another. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve seen global connections.
WAD members step up to help a colleague, whether it’s assisting
on a case, offering career advice, or simply being there as a friend.

24 W.A.D Beyond Global