As a member-driven and member-focused trade association, the National Biodiesel Board welcomed its membership for the annual fall meeting, Nov. 18-20 in Washington, D.C., to focus on critical policy initiatives and move the biodiesel industry forward.

During the meeting, NBB members elected industry representatives to serve on the governing board to help the development and success of biodiesel.

“As the national trade association representing America’s advanced biofuel, it is critical that we are led by a strong team of advocates from all sectors of the industry,” said Donnell Rehagen, NBB CEO. “The NBB governing board continues to strive to move America-made fuel forward and expand our nearly 3 billion-gallon market.”

NBB members voted to fill seven board member spots for two-year terms:

• Kent Engelbrecht, Archer Daniels Midland Co.

• Chad Stone, Renewable Energy Group Inc.

• Ryan Pederson, North Dakota Soybean Council

• Harry Simpson, Crimson Renewable Energy LLC

• Paul Soanes, RBF Port Neches LLC

• Dave Walton, Iowa Soybean Association

• Tim Ostrem, South Dakota Soybean Research and
   Promotion Council

Troy Alberts, Rob Shaffer, Jeff Lynn, Tim Keaveney, Greg Anderson, Mike Rath, Robert Morton and Tom Brooks continue to serve on the board. The board also elected Chad Stone as chairman, Mike Rath as vice chairman, Rob Shaffer as 2nd vice chairman, Ryan Pederson as treasurer, and Troy Alberts as secretary. “Our association is sure that Chad Stone will serve our industry to his fullest capacity as new chairman and help us reach our lofty goals,” Rehagen said.

NBB also recognized retiring chairman, Kent Engelbrecht, for his three years of dedication and service.

This three-year term is the maximum allowed by the association’s bylaws. “Under his leadership, the biodiesel industry has achieved a great deal of growth and development,” Rehagen said. “I’m excited he will remain on the board where we can continue to benefit from his expertise and passion.”

In addition, NBB thanked retiring governing board member Ron Heck. “Ron has been a tireless advocate for agriculture and biodiesel,” Rehagen said. “I have always admired his ability to understand the market dynamics from the farm field all the way through biodiesel production and distribution. This knowledge has allowed him to represent our members’ interests exceptionally well in some critical moments of our industry. We will miss his strong and consistent leadership.”

The NBB governing board reflects the wide range of member companies in the biodiesel industry, from feedstock operations to producers.