COMMITTEE DESCRIPTIONS & MEMBERS

Bylaws & Legislative

This committee conducts an annual review of the Association's Bylaws and advises the Board on any necessary updates. It drafts proposed changes and submits them for the Board's approval. In addition to its work with the Bylaws, the committee closely monitors new bills introduced in the State Assembly and Senate, along with relevant regulatory issues. They provide the Board with recommendations on which bills to prioritize and keep the Board informed of developments that require attention. The committee also plays a key role in overseeing lobbying efforts, ensuring that the Association’s interests are effectively represented and that the membership stays informed on critical legislative matters. Budgets for all legislative and lobbying activities must be approved by the MCBOA board of directors.

Michael Canine, Lorenz Bus Service - Chair
Mike Forbord, Schmitty & Sons
Steve Woelfel, Jefferson Lines

Event Planning

This committee is responsible for planning and execution of the annual convention. They meet with MCBOA officers several times a year via Zoom during the planning stages and meet once at the host hotel to review the convention and banquet spaces and coordinate with the on-site staff. The Committee Chair provides regular updates to the Advisory Team and the Board, and all budgets must be submitted for approval.

Vicki Bowman, VB Group Marketing - Co-Chair
Alice Lemon, VB Group Marketing - Co-Chair
(with regular input from MCBOA Advisory Team)

Education & Maintenance

This committee advises the Board on membership education and industry maintenance needs while planning and overseeing virtual member education throughout the year. It is also responsible for organizing and executing the annual on-site Maintenance Seminar and Driver Skills Competition. All budgetary requirements must be submitted to the Board of Directors for approval.

Rob Wicklund, Bemidji Bus - Co-Chair Maintenance
Adam Hall, John Hall's Alaska - Co-Chair Training
Mark Polzin, Budget Truck & Auto (Maintenance Focus)
Tom Thoemke, Jefferson Lines (Training Focus)
Barry Howell, Minnesota Coaches (Driver Skills Focus)
Mike Canine, Lorenz Bus Service (Driver Skills Focus)

Membership

This committee is dedicated to promoting and expanding MCBOA membership. They organize small regional Meet & Greets for non-members to showcase the benefits of an MCBOA membership, as well as help plan and execute membership drives. All plans and budget proposals must be presented to the Board for approval.

Tim Heinze, Lake Crystal Coach - Chair
Rick Thielen, Thielen Coaches

Awards

This committee is responsible for reviewing and updating nomination documents for MCBOA's annual awards. They participate in the blind judging process, oversee the distribution of prizes, and make recommendations for special or new awards. A budget proposal must be submitted to the Board of Directors for approval.

Craig Osborne, Northfield Lines - Chair
Aram Nikitas, Motor Coach Industries