An evolving organization can’t achieve success without fresh input, and the Upper Mississippi Waterway Association (UMWA) is excited to have just that with the addition of three new board members: Kevin Full with VAA Engineering; Vince Reuter of Eckland and Blando; and Randy Carmichael with Upper Mississippi Fleeting.
“Their expertise and passion for our mission promises to bring in new perspectives and drive our initiatives forward” UMWA President Jeremy Putman said.
With all three new members having a decorated history in the maritime industry, UMWA leaders expect it will weave well with the organization’s future goals.
“Together they will continue to champion the vitality and sustainability of the Upper Mississippi River, ensuring its health and prosperity for future generations,” Putman said.
Through current connections and prospective ones, Reuter says he’s felt passionately about UMWA’s mission since he first learned about the organization.
“It’s a great organization and it’s just something I want to continue to be part of,” Reuter said, who serves as a maritime attorney and joined UMWA as a member about four years ago. “It’s very unique. The river industry is great, and I have met a lot of interesting people, so I’m really excited to be more involved.”
Some of their first tasks at hand will be to assist in the creation of UMWA’s new membership and projects committees to help further strengthen the voice of the organization.
“I really like the overall ambition of this organization and its drive to grow even more,” said Reuter. “I’m so excited to be part of that growth.”
UMWA Executive Director Gary Williams says the timing of adding this new wave of board members couldn’t be better.
“UMWA is determining what our priorities and projects will be for the coming year,” Williams said. “The infusion of these new board members to guide that process is really well-timed for the association.”
UMWA’s next board meeting to formally welcome its new directors takes place virtually at noon Sept. 19.