The Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA), headquartered in Orlando, FL, promoted Lee Gatts to vice president of government affairs. The Association also hired Aaron Hallenberg as Northwest government affairs manager, Ethan Hellier as Midwest government affairs manager and Megan Thielfoldt as communications and marketing director.
WSIA is a non-profit that supports the towed-waters sports industry, including water skiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing, and tubing. WSIA said the additions would enable the association to continue advocating for the industry, increasing membership and educating the public.
Hallenberg’s experience spans local, state and regional issues, having worked as a staff member for the Pierce County City Council and staffer in the Washington State House and Senate.
Hellier’s background includes grassroots advocacy, legislative affairs and political activities. His previous role was senior manager of the Midwest region at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He has also worked as a committee legislative assistant in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Thielfoldt has a background in journalism, political technology and local campaign management.
“Growing our government affairs team is a massive step forward for us. This new, expanded team will enable the Waters Sports Industry Association to have intensified reach in all 50 states and enhance our engagement on behalf of our members and the entire recreational boating industry,” said Gatts.
