Committees are established by the Life Jacket Association's Board of Directors for the purpose of:
Assisting the Board of Directors in the fulfillment of the Association’s mission and advancement of its strategic plan.
Providing expert analysis, advice, and recommendations on specific issues, projects, and initiatives relevant to the Association.
Increasing member engagement and create opportunities for professional development among Association members.
Enhancing the Association’s ability to respond to emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities.
Committees
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Chair: Chris Sime, Takashina USA
The purpose of the Annual Meeting Planning Committee is to assist the Board of Directors in the fulfillment of the Association’s mission and to work collaboratively with the board and staff to plan and execute a successful annual meeting that meets the needs of LJA members, stakeholders, supporters, and vendors. The committee will focus on developing high-quality content, securing engaging speakers, and identifying and securing sponsors.
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Chair: Brenda Espelien, PFD Consultants / LJA Treasurer
The Finance Committee is established to support the Board of Directors in fulfilling its fiduciary responsibilities for the financial health and integrity of the organization. Its purpose is to provide financial oversight, ensure stewardship of the organization’s resources, and recommend sound fiscal policies and procedures that promote financial sustainability, transparency, and accountability.
Committee Charges 2026 - 2027
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Chair: Gordon Colby, Mustang Survival
The Life Jacket Technician Course (LJTC) Advisory Committee is established to support the Board of Directors in ensuring the continued vitality, accuracy, and advancement of the Life Jacket Technician course. The committee’s principal responsibility is to advise on curriculum updates, industry standards, regulatory changes, and best practices to ensure the course remains current and impactful.
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Chair: Troy Faletra, Throwraft
The Membership Committee is established to support the Board of Directors in ensuring the vitality, diversity, and effectiveness of the board and the broader membership of the association. The committee’s principal responsibility is to actively oversee the identification, recruitment, engagement, and retention of qualified and committed individuals who can further the nonprofit’s mission through organizational involvement.
By fostering a robust, inclusive, and dynamic membership body, the committee supports the organization’s strategic goals, cultivates future leaders aligned with the organization’s values and vision, and nurtures the growth of engaged individuals within the organization, empowering them to become active members who meaningfully support and advance the nonprofit’s mission.
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The purpose of the Regulatory Committee is to monitor and report on the work of the UL Standards Technical Panel, regulatory updates, and other activities impacting life jacket manufacturing and public use.
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Chair: Wayne Walters, Kent Water Sports
The Technical Committee is responsible forestablishing and maintainingtechnical criteria and assessment protocols that result in acomprehensive conformity assessment program.Additionally, thecommittee collaborates with technical experts and stakeholders toupdate assessment criteria and procedures based on emerging trends,technological advancements, and changes in relevant regulations.
Volunteer Forms
Volunteer Interest Form
Confidentiality Policy
Conflict of Interest & Disclosure Statement
Policies
Committees of the Board
Committees of the Association