MINNEAPOLIS — The Young Leaders Advisory Council, (YLAC) a group dedicated to moving the MRAA forward into an even stronger network of marine industry professionals, has announced Josh Vallely, Sales Manager at Vallely Sport & Marine, as Chairman of YLAC. Vallely replaces Ryan Hebert, now the immediate past chairman, and sees great potential for YLACs future.

“I am very excited to assume the Chairman role of the Young Leaders Advisory Counsel, and for YLAC in the year ahead,” says Josh Vallely, Chairman of YLAC. “2014 is going to be a great year. YLAC plans to create a strong network of talented like-minded individuals who are dedicated to moving the marine industry forward with new initiatives, benefits and technologies, through strategic outreach efforts. The YLAC group and its initiatives represent the future of the marine industry, and it is an honor to have the opportunity to lead such a bright group.”

YLAC consists of 11 marine industry professionals, all under the age of 40, who have had at least 7 years experience in the marine industry. This group is driven by a mission to provide information and recommendations to the MRAA board on matters pertaining to the development and enhancement for the association. It also manages a young leaders networking group for young professionals on the rise to get involved with the marine industry outside their respective business. YLAC seeks applications from qualified candidates between the months of June and July.

“Drawing ideas and perspective from YLAC is a critical component to the success of MRAA and the industry at large,” by Matt Gruhn, President of the MRAA. “The next-generation thinking that YLAC provides has helped move the MRAA forward into new areas of marketing, communication, attracting new people to the industry and many others. We are thrilled to see this group grow and become more visible throughout the industry.”

About Marine Retailers Association of the Americas

At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the companies that interact with the boater in their community must thrive. Those businesses determine the boater’s experience and are the leading factor in the industry’s success. The MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those businesses, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit