ARA of Florida

10/01/2026

The ARA of Florida extends our deepest condolences to the United Rentals family following the tragic events in Manassas, Virginia.

Our hearts are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, the employee who was injured, their coworkers, and everyone affected by this unimaginable tragedy.

The equipment rental industry is a close community, and when one of our own experiences such a devastating loss, it is felt throughout our entire industry.

We stand with our friends and colleagues at United Rentals during this incredibly difficult time and keep all those impacted in our thoughts.

09/16/2026

KEYNOTE REVEAL!!!

KEYNOTE ANNOUNCEMENT!! We are excited to welcome Drew Brees as the keynote speaker at in New Orleans!

Drew is the former 2009 Super Bowl MVP-winning quarterback for the New Orleans Saints and a 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinee. After lettering in football at Purdue University, Drew went on to play five years with the San Diego Chargers and fifteen years with the New Orleans Saints. He has been elected to 13 Pro Bowls while being named 2004 Comeback Player of the Year, 2006 All-Pro Team, 2006 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, 2008 and 2011 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, and Super Bowl XLIV Champion and MVP.

As much pride as Drew takes in his on-field performance, he takes even more pride in his community service endeavors. Drew and his wife, Brittany, established the Brees Dream Foundation in 2003 and since then have contributed over $50 million to help improve the quality of life for cancer patients and provide care, education and opportunities for children and families in need. In addition to his personal foundation, Drew has co-founded SHIELD 1 Foundation to address the greatest needs in our communities including but not limited to housing, healthcare, education, business opportunity, economic development, urban farming, support of HBCUs, social justice and legislative reform.

Make your plans now to attend the Keynote Session – sponsored by ANA – on Monday, Feb. 15, at The ARA Show 2027 in New Orleans. Show registration opens Oct. 13.

09/11/2026

May we never forget the courage, sacrifice, and unity of that day.

9.11.01 • We Remember. Always. 🇺🇸

08/30/2026

Chapter Spotlight:

“ARA of FL Summer Getaway
The ARA of Florida's 2026 Weekend Getaway brought rental professionals together for a weekend focused on education, networking, and strengthening industry relationships. Held at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort in Clearwater, the "Salty Air with a Western Flair" themed event featured educational sessions, a tabletop showcase, and a Tent Certification Program where more than 25 attendees earned certification.

Members also demonstrated their generosity by raising over $4,000 for the ARA Foundation Scholarship Fund through a silent auction. While the learning opportunities and fundraising were significant highlights, the true success of the event was the sense of community and collaboration it fostered. Attendees left with new knowledge, valuable connections, and a renewed appreciation for the relationships that make ARA of Florida and the rental industry so strong.”

08/30/2026

Congratulations to everyone who completed the State Board Orientation!

Way to go!
Ralph Shaw, Kathryn Wilbourne, Cassandra Gonzmart-Hill, Gary Johnson, Carol Fontanez

08/21/2026

Florida sun may not have taken it easy, but these folks are resilient!

Eager to learn, grow and above all be safe.

08/21/2026

Presenting the 2026 slate of nominees for the American Rental Association Board of Directors.

08/21/2026

We were proud to bring Safe Tenting Certification to Florida, and now the learning continues in Texas!

Tent safety is something we can never know too much about. Ask questions. Learn the do’s and don’ts. Understand the why behind the procedures, and never assume there isn’t something new to learn.

08/21/2026

As ARA of Florida looks ahead to March 2027, we are excited for the next chapter of leadership.

After four years as President, Carol Fontanez will transition into the role of Chair. We thank Carol for her dedication, leadership and continued commitment to ARA of Florida.

Kathryn Wilbourne, our current Vice President and President-Elect, will step into the role of President. We thank Kathryn for her commitment to serve and look forward to the leadership she will bring to our chapter.

Here’s to the next chapter of ARA of Florida!

08/14/2026

🎉Congratulations to this years 12 to Watch Under 40!

Presenting our annual feature of some of the most dynamic young professionals under the age of 40.