The Valve Manufacturers Association of America (VMA) recently announced a new president. Heather Rhoderick was appointed last month, replacing William “Bill” Sandler who retired earlier this year after 40 years with the organization.
VMA’s new president most recently served as Senior Vice President of Events and Information at the American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) where she helped develop organization-wide strategies with a focus on fiscally responsible growth. Over a six-year period, she boosted profitability by 60% and was instrumental in doubling non-dues revenue.
Rhoderick’s background also includes 24 years of experience in trade organization operations, including the Newspaper Association of America and the American Chemistry Council. She holds an MBA from Virginia Tech and a BA in Political Science from the University of Delaware as well as certifications from the American Society of Association Executives and the Convention Industry Council.
“I’m honored to join the team at VMA as president. I look forward to working with the membership and staff to build on its strong record of success serving the vitally important North American flow control industry,” Rhoderick said in a statement. “I believe the VMA is well positioned for growth and am excited to help lead the organization providing a forum to address common issues and bring value-added programs that support the members and industry.”
Founded in 1938 and located in Washington D.C., the VMA keeps
members abreast of industry developments and helps ensure industry messages are
heard by lawmakers and other key people in the capital. Nearly 100 North
American companies are members of VMA, which include makers of valves,
actuators or controls, supply products to valve, actuator and control
manufacturers, and those who serve as distributors/channel partners for other VMA
members. Collectively, these companies have 30,000 employees and are responsible
for 80% of the total industrial valve shipments out of U.S. facilities.
Despite having such a wide footprint, the valve industry is male-dominated, particularly when it comes to leadership roles. VMA’s Executive Search Committee performed an “exhaustive search” prior to extending an offer to Rhoderick and should be commended for, not only choosing such a well-qualified candidate but for rising above the status quo and bringing much-needed diversity to the sector.
Congratulations to the Valve Manufacturers Association
and its new president Heather Rhoderick!