ESSEX, Conn. – August 11, 2014 – The Connecticut Marine Trades Association has named Kathleen Burns as its new Executive Director.
“After an extensive nationwide search to replace the retiring Grant Westerson, I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Kathleen Burns as Executive Director of the Connecticut Marine Trades Association. Kathleen is no stranger to the Association, as she held the position of Chairman through some of the most difficult times facing our industry. Kathleen’s leadership and efforts were instrumental in halting the State of Connecticut’s initiative to implement numerous taxes on the boating industry. We are very excited to have someone with her background and knowledge leading the Association. With Amy Clark, our longtime Director of Programs, knowledge and skills and Kathleen’s experience, the future of our organization has never been brighter,” noted Robert Petzold, current Chairman of the Association.
Before accepting this position, Kathleen held the title of General Manager at Noank Shipyard, Inc. In this role she oversaw all operations, including the service department, fuel operations, marina slips and moorings, in addition to tenant leasing and customer relations. Kathleen also supervised the renovation of the marina as well as the acquisition and development of a second marina. With a 95% occupancy every year, she was able to consistently deliver profitable results.
Prior to her position with Noank Shipyard, Inc., Kathleen’s career took her from Director of Marketing with JMB Federated, Inc., and DUSCO Property Management, to Managing Partner of Cedar Cove Marina, and finally Manager at Killbuck Golf Club.
Kathleen’s dedication to the Marine Industry is exhibited by her affiliations with – The Connecticut Marine Trades Association, Work Vessels for Vets, Inc., Marine Affairs Committee, Mystic Chamber of Commerce and Sail the Morgan Community Outreach committee.
About CT Marine Trades Association
The Connecticut Marine Trades Association (CMTA) is instrumental to the well being of the industry by promoting the interests of recreational boating, improving industry conditions, monitoring legislative and regulatory issues, and advancing the education of those in the industry in Connecticut.
CMTA will maintain the highest standards in providing its members with the best service possible to include the successful implementation of the objectives presented in the Annual Course for Action.
CMTA is a not-for-profit trade association representing the recreational boating and related marine industries in our state. Founded in 1954 by a dedicated group of volunteers, CMTA exists for the benefit of the boating industry in Connecticut.
CMTA has nearly 300 member businesses and is known as the recreational boating industry’s voice in Connecticut dealing with government agencies and affiliated local and national organizations on all issues affecting the boating industry.
