Ebbie W. Phillips, Owner & CEO
The International Sign Association (ISA) recently awarded the 2009 Kirk L. Brimley Distinguished Award to Ebbie Phillips, President and CEO of Tyson Sign Company in Myrtle Beach. Phillips received the award at ISA's Sign Expo 2009 held at Mandalay Bay South Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada.
Humbled by the ISA presentation, Phillips accepted the award stating, "I am so proud to be a part of this great industry. It has truly been a Blessing to me and my family. This is a wonderfully unique industry. The on-premise sign industry allows you to be creative and to make a product that is truly a vital part of our society."
Since 1966, ISA has presented a distinguished service award annually to an ISA member who demonstrates outstanding dedication and service to the association. Nominated and selected by a panel of previous award winners, Brimley Award recipients are sign professionals who have made significant and substantial contributions to the on-premise sign industry over the years.
"I have worked with many individuals around the country and throughout the world. Some of my closest friends are in the industry, and I am so blessed for friendships that will last forever."
A 37-year sign industry veteran, Phillips is the only person to serve twice as ISA Chairman. He served as chairman in 1991 for the National Electric Sign Association (precursor to ISA) and in 2005 for the International Sign Association.
ISA credits Phillips with helping to reinvigorate ISA after a period of transition.
According to ISA Senior Vice President Brian McNamara, Phillips was pivotal during his time as chairman in shaping the strategic direction of the organization and putting it on the path to the success it has seen in recent years.
When ISA Chairman Roy Cox presented the award to Phillips, he described Phillips as "generous, dedicated, diplomatic, mentor, visionary, problem solver and born leader."
"I credit my staff in Myrtle Beach for their hard work and dedication to make Tyson Sign Company the great company it is. Without their efforts I could not have succeeded," Phillips added. "It's very rewarding when you see your team pull together, solve the problems and deliver a quality product to your customer. And, my team does that every time."
