Michigan Solid-State Lighting Association Announces New Board of Directors for 2012
TROY, Mich., Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Michigan Solid-State Lighting Association (MSSLA) today announced its new officers for 2012. The following officers were elected on December 5, 2011, with terms beginning on January 1, 2012:
- President – Paula Wheeler, LED Optical Solutions, LLC
- Vice President – Justin Palm, LumaSmart
- Treasurer – Gerald Polk, DTE Energy
- Secretary – Dave Simon, ilumisys
The MSSLA was formed in 2009 by a collaborative effort among Michigan-based corporations, universities and state agencies engaged in manufacturing, research or development of solid-state lighting (SSL) products. Today, the volunteer organization has grown to include more than 25 member organizations that are all dedicated to ensuring Michigan becomes a global leader in SSL manufacturing, research and development through knowledge-sharing, education and public-policy advocacy.
"It has been my privilege to serve as president of the MSSLA since its founding, and I am pleased to continue in a supporting role as a board member and secretary," said Dave Simon, current president of the MSSLA. "As we move forward, it is my heartfelt belief that the MSSLA has an opportunity to significantly expand its voice and scope of activity beyond the state of Michigan, and Paula Wheeler will be a tremendous leader in this effort."
To date, the MSSLA has held three annual symposiums, conducted quarterly meetings with key industry guest speakers, and advocated in political circles for its mission and member companies. The organization now is moving into the next phase of elevating the SSL industry's visibility both in Michigan and in the broader public and private sectors under the leadership of its incoming president, Paula Wheeler.
"I am honored to be elected by my peers into the role of president of the MSSLA at a time when the industry faces a strong challange to educate the user community," Wheeler said. "As we take the MSSLA to the next level we will focus on increasing the general awareness and comfort level with the benefits of converting to LED lighting. I strongly believe in the mission of this organization and its role in highlighting the capabilities of solid-state lighting and the Michigan-based companies and universities leading this growth-oriented industry."
Wheeler brings with her to the organization more than 27 years in executive leadership, global sales team management and purchasing experience in the commercial lighting, automotive, and integrated steel industries, including eight years directly related to lighting. Today Wheeler serves as the director of sales and marketing for LED Optical Solutions in Washington, Mich. She was a founding board member of the MSSLA.
"There are many winners here," added Wheeler. "Users reduce cost and get better light, and Michigan companies expand and create more manufacturing jobs."
Solid-state lighting refers to light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as sources of illumination, rather than electrical filaments, plasma or gas. Benefits of solid-state lighting include an environmentally friendly design that is mercury-free, contains reusable parts and provides a long-term, energy-efficient source of light.
About the Michigan Solid-State Lighting Association (MSSLA)
Established in 2009 and based in Troy, Mich., the Michigan Solid-State Lighting Association is dedicated to ensuring that Michigan is a global leader in solid-state lighting manufacturing, research and development through knowledge-sharing, education and public-policy advocacy. By leveraging the intellectual properties and technical expertise of its members, the MSSLA intends to promote environmentally friendly lighting options in the state and to advance the companies it represents. For more information, visit www.MSSLA.org.
SOURCE Michigan Solid-State Lighting Association
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