[CAUT] college salaries

[Steve Carver]

Wim, while this suggestion may seem unrealistic, it does frequently get
administrators attention. This approach is used by faculty as well and can
produce results. Apply for another university position and with luck if an
offer is forthcoming, you will have in hand an excellent bargaining tool. 

Over the last 6-8 years I have been keenly aware of a number of searches
for piano technicians, either personally or friends-associates of mine. In
almost every single case, whether it was an assistant level position or a
senior position, VERY FEW qualified technicians applied, underscoring the
lack of skilled technicians. Some of these positions were at highly rated
institutions; others at the more common state universities-smaller
institutions.

This is in part why I wrote the college article that appeared in the August
04 issue of the journal, which stressed the many positive aspects of
working in institutions of higher ed. 

College administrators are aware of the shortage of techs. Once you are a
sought after item, you worth to the department has been greatly enhanced. I
know that relocation is not an easy thing to do, particularly when taking
into account spouses, children, etc. But be prepared, there are some very
good jobs that come up from time to time if you cannot achieve a reasonable
relationship with your current employer. Good luck, Steve.