With 25 years of expertise across public agency and private industry, Michael Algots leads operations for GrayMar’s 19 national locations. He oversees a comprehensive service portfolio including emergency response, industrial services, environmental remediation, and waste disposal solutions. Michael’s leadership is defined by an unwavering commitment to three core pillars: Safety, Compliance, and Culture, ensuring operational excellence and regulatory integrity across all nationwide projects.
Amit is a seasoned Environmental and Regulatory Compliance professional with 25 years of widely varied experience in the industry. Over the past 4 years, Amit and his team at EnviroApps are making the transportation of hazardous materials safer in Canada through digitalization of Shipping Papers. Regulations require Hazmat Shipping Papers to accompany hazardous materials during their transport, however, when an emergency occurs, Emergency Responders cannot access these paper documents from the Truck. EnviroApps is also making shipping compliance easier, thereby saving time and costs.
Mark A Bruce CHMM, CSHM is an experienced environmental, health, and safety consultant with over 38 years of experience in the industry. As owner and managing member of Bruce Environmental & Response Management, LLC (BERM) since 2017, Mark has advised numerous industrial and construction clients on numerous compliance issues relating to OSHA, EPA, and the DOT. His expertise lies in delivering positive outcomes for clients backed by nearly four decades of emergency response management, environmental remediation, and safety program experience. Mr. Bruce is an accomplished trainer of EH&S programs as well as an experienced on-site leader for environmental remediation and construction project oversite. He was honored by the industry by becoming a Fellow of the Institute of Hazardous Materials Managers (IHMM) where he continues to volunteer time in the promotion of professional credentials. Mark is a long-standing member of the Alliance of Hazardous Materials Professionals (AHMP), including a Fellow of the Alliance as the past Chair (2020) of the Board of Directors. Mark holds a BS in Business Administration and Emergency Management from the State University of New York (SUNY), Empire State College, and an AS in Math and Science Technologies from Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, NY. Mr. Bruce is a Certified Hazardous Materials Professional (CHMM) and a Certified Safety and Health Manager, which are accredited credentials from the IHMM.
Wendy Buckley is President and CEO of STARS HazMat Consulting and an Operational HazMat Expert & Advisor with nearly 30 years of experience across all modes of hazardous materials transportation and operating environments. Her work spans chemical manufacturing and distribution, trucking, rail, warehousing, terminals, bulk and non-bulk packaging, loading and unloading, regulatory compliance, operational risk, incident investigation, and training. A former federal and state DOT hazardous materials inspector, firefighter/EMT, and regulatory affairs professional, Wendy brings a practical, field-focused perspective to complex hazmat challenges. She also serves as an expert witness, DGTA Board Member, and Alliance for Chemical Distribution Responsible Distribution Advisor.
Larry D. Buffey, Jr. is the Principal Product Stewardship & Dangerous Goods Compliance Leader at AdvanSix, a diversified resins and chemical company. Larry began his career as an Ecological Research Assistant at the University of Michigan, where he designed and planned research studies on threatened animal species. He also developed management plans in collaboration with MDNR and other stakeholders. With over 12 years of experience in Product Stewardship, Larry specializes in analyzing chemical risks. He has served as the lead for Dangerous Goods compliance for more than 10 years and is an integral part of AdvanSix's Incident Management Team, known as M.O.T.E.R. Larry holds a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology and a master’s degree in Ecology and Felid Biology, both from the University of Michigan.
Andreas serves as the National Trainer for AEMC Instruments, a premier manufacturer of electrical test and measurement instruments based in Dover, NH. In his current role, Andreas oversees training for the company’s diverse product lines with a specialized focus on the AEMC Hazmat grounding and bonding kit. He actively coordinates critical safety training initiatives alongside Chip Heard, the Senior Manager of Hazardous Materials at Union Pacific Railroad, and has conducted multiple training at Union Pacific Railroad yards including Seattle, WA, Muskogee, OK, and Midland, TX. A seasoned professional in instructional design and training delivery, Andreas offers over two decades of experience in developing and implementing high-impact learning programs across technology, sales, and operations. He has held leadership roles at top-level global organizations, where he managed multimillion-dollar technology projects and spearheaded sales enablement programs. Known for bridging the gap between technical engineering knowledge and instructional design, Andreas is PMP-certified, a Six Sigma Green Belt, and holds an MBA in International Business as well as a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Regarding his work with the hazardous materials community, Andreas says, “I’m passionate about translating complex technical solutions into clear, actionable value for first responders, local emergency planners, and communities located along hazardous material transportation routes".
Quinlan Carroll is the Associate Director of Political Mobilization for the American Chemistry Council (ACC). In this role, Quinlan focuses on engaging member company facilities in ACC’s grassroots advocacy strategy, through plant tours, site visits, roundtables and other in-state events. Prior to joining ACC, Quinlan spent time working on Capitol Hill and as a Political Consultant in Washington D.C.
Tim Chappell has spent his career at the intersection of emerging technology and human performance. From developing games with industry leaders such as EA Games, Mythic Entertainment, and BioWare to pioneering immersive technologies at ExxonMobil, he has focused on leveraging innovation to solve real-world challenges. As an Immersive Technology Strategic Advisor, Tim works across XR, AI, digital twins, and simulation technologies to help create safer, smarter, and more efficient ways of working. He has been instrumental in advancing immersive training and visual digital twin solutions that enable workers to interact with complex information in intuitive and impactful ways. Driven by a belief that technology should serve and protect people, Tim is passionate about helping organizations translate cutting-edge innovation into measurable business and safety outcomes while shaping the future of industrial operations.
Allison Chertack is an Associate Director of Plastics Life Cycle and Sustainability within the American Chemistry Council’s Plastics Division. She is responsible for positioning the benefits of plastics through life cycle assessments, data analyses, and science communication. She leads the division’s work on Operation Clean Sweep (OCS), a global plastic resin stewardship program, that is working to achieve zero plastic resin loss to the environment. Prior to ACC, Allison worked for a plastics distribution company in environmental health and safety in her hometown of Buffalo, NY. Allison holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and a Master of Science in Sustainability Systems.
Brent Conerly is the Shipping Supervisor at TotalEnergies Petrochemicals and Refining USA, Inc. Carville, LA Styrenics site. This site manufactures and ships Polystyrene pellets. He is responsible for planning, directing, supervising and managing the Shipping function, which involves the physical movements and quality assurance of products. Brent has been an employee of TotalEnergies for 35 years holding positions in Operations, Training, Maintenance and Shipping. Brent has also held the role of OCS coordinator for the site since 2019.
As International Business Director, Rich joined CHEMTREC 5 years ago and draws on over 20 years of experience working with hundreds of public and private sector organizations who have complex risk and compliance challenges. Customer collaboration is key in his role, as is a close relationship with regulators and strategic partners to help companies minimize their risk. Rich makes complex challenges simple, supporting compliance all whilst protecting their bottom line.
Charles “Chuck” Demovic is the Stakeholder Engagement Branch Manager of the Policy, Standards, and Stakeholder Division, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Office of Hazardous Materials Safety (AXH). The Stakeholder Engagement Branch focuses on safety promotion, AXH's commitment to collaborate with aviation hazardous materials stakeholders to reduce risk to the National Airspace System (NAS) through education and communication partnership efforts. Charles has more than 23 years of experience in Federal Service and 5 years working for County and City governments.
"Joe Donadoni, Senior Vice President, Development for ACD and Executive Director, ASK Distribution Consulting, LLC: Joe has been with ACD since September 2023. Prior to joining ACD, Joe served as the Chief of Membership and Business Development for Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS). Joe started his association career as the Director of Business Development for AdvaMed, the largest medtech trade association in the U.S. Before that, Joe spent 12 years with Citigroup in a variety of sales and leadership positions across different areas of the organization. Joe is a graduate of Boston College. "
James Edwards is an Operations Manager at BASF in the Performance Materials division, leading the Urethane Applications Pilot Plant. He specializes in process optimization and maintaining high standards of performance and regulatory compliance in complex manufacturing environments, with a focus on safety, efficiency and operational excellence. James also serves as an Emergency Response Specialist on BASF’s Technical Research and Chemical Emergency Response (TRACER) team, supporting critical incident response and on-call operations. As a certified drone pilot, he integrates aerial technology into emergency response and site-wide initiatives to enhance situational awareness and decision-making. A 10-year U.S. Navy veteran, James serves as the Chair of the BASF Michigan Veteran Employee Team, advocating for veteran engagement and development. He brings disciplined leadership, resilience, and a mission-driven mindset to his work. A resident of Riverview, MI James and his wife Jessica are proud parents of three boys, Jameson, Jude, and Jensen.
Chris oversees the sales process of the Lithium & Hazmat division. In this role, Chris communicates and leads projects for some of Americase's largest clients, in addition to effectively coordinating and executing the full sales process with our hazmat customers. However, his biggest priority is acting as an essential customer advocate, consulting in regard to hazmat regulation, drawing from his active memberships and participation in multiple industry and standards organizations, including COSTHA, PRBA, DGAC, UN Subcommittee on the Reclassification of Li-ion and Metal Cells, as well as serving as a writing and voting member of SAE G-27 and J3303, and an advisor for the MDTC.
Andy currently works for the Bureau of Explosives (BOE) of the Association of American Railroads (AAR) in Washington DC. His primary focus is the duties of the Executive Director of Hazmat Compliance. Andy also serves on the Board of Directors for Operation Lifesaver Inc. and has been a guest speaker at Rail Safety events all over North America, Zagreb Croatia, the Netherlands, Warsaw Poland and York UK. Andy also serves as the AAR’s Representative to the Dangerous Goods Advisory Council, TRANSCAER and the Transportation Research Board. Andy served as a Special Operations Police Officer in Nashville, Tennessee USA for 27 years and performed duties as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE) Instructor / Operator and continues to instruct Tactical Hazmat for the FBI’s / STALO Program.
Bruce Gacsal is the Senior Director of Security for Quality Carriers, the largest specialty chemical & hazardous material bulk hauler in North America. Bruce is a security expert with over three decades of experience in the security industry. He provides training to organizations and civilians on Active Shooter events, educating on how to respond and survive during these attacks. He also provides training on Human Trafficking, educating individuals and heightening awareness on what Human Trafficking is and how to respond and report this criminal behavior. Throughout his career, Bruce has designed and implemented effective security programs for various environments including fixed assets, transportation enterprises and personal protection. He has developed comprehensive training platforms for employees and civilians on fraud, social engineering, workplace violence, emergency preparedness and natural disaster contingency planning. Bruce has been recognized in the industry and has frequently received invitations to provide his expertise at various national conferences including Dow’s national conference where he received the 2019 Humanitarian of the Year award.
Chris Garcia is a Principal Analyst in the Policy, Standards & Stakeholder Division of the FAA’s Office of Hazardous Materials Safety, where he plays a pivotal role in advancing aviation safety. Since joining the FAA in 2001, Chris has built a distinguished career dedicated to the safe transport of passengers and cargo by air. With nearly two decades of expertise in hazardous materials safety, he has served in diverse capacities—from Physical Security Specialist and Hazardous Materials Safety Inspector to a Risk Management and Policy Analyst. In his current role, Chris leads strategic initiatives that transform complex data and risk analysis into actionable insights, crafting stakeholder communications that shape industry standards and enhance global aviation safety. Passionate about collaboration and innovation, Chris works closely with industry partners to anticipate emerging risks and develop solutions that keep air travel safe and reliable. He is committed to promoting regulatory excellence and public safety, and he frequently shares his expertise at industry conferences and workshops, helping stakeholders navigate the evolving challenges in hazardous materials transportation.
Ryan Goldsmith serves as Global Emergency Response Leader for The Chemours Company, overseeing emergency preparedness, response, training, and resiliency across global operations and product distribution. He brings more than 24 years of experience with Chemours, having progressed from operator and training technician to site and now corporate emergency response leadership. Ryan also has over 30 years of fire service experience, serving with the Washington Bottom Volunteer Fire Department until 2022 in roles including Captain, Training Officer, and Board Member. He is a National Pro Board–certified Hazardous Materials Technician, Safety Officer, and Incident Commander, and a certified rope and confined space rescue technician and instructor. Ryan is an active industry collaborator through the American Chemistry Council, TRANSCAER National Transportation Team, the Chlorine Institute Emergency Preparedness Issues Team, and the HF Mutual Aid Network.
Megan’s career has spanned the 35 years in the petrochemical industry. Working prior for LyondellBasell, and Lubrizol to assist with transportation of hazardous materials as well as planning for mitigation of incidents. This is where her bond with CHEMTREC began. Megan’s current role expanded to Nouryon Chemical, LLC., in International Transportation Safety, Compliance and Emergency Response, where she is at the Supply Chain Headquarters in Houston, Texas. Megan’s MBA is from the University of Phoenix, and is currently working on her Hazardous Materials Manager certification. Megan is a state of Texas Industrial Firefighter, and HazMat Specialist. Prior to the petrochemical industry, her career was in law enforcement with the Chicago Police Department. Megan believes that being a mother to twelve children prepared her for her career in hazmat.
Mr. Clayton Hatfield brings over 35 years of transportation experience to his current position as the Chief, Field Outreach and Engagement of PHMSA. Prior to becoming Chief, Field Outreach and Engagement in October 2023, Mr. Hatfield served as a Southern Region Investigator from 2018 to 2023, and as an outreach coordinator on PHMSA’s Hazardous Materials Safety Assistance Team (HMSAT) from 2015-2018. Clayton joined PHMSA’s office of HAZMAT Safety in November 2015 in the Southern Region. Prior to joining PHMSA, Clayton was a transportation specialist for the US Navy in Virginia Beach, VA. His responsibilities included the safe and timely movement of all command operational gear and personnel to worldwide locations. He instructed and evaluated command personnel on the worldwide transportation of hazardous materials for multi modal shipment. Clayton enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1984 and served 20 years on active duty as an Aircraft loadmaster with a three-year assignment as a mission planner at Fort Bragg, NC; he retired from active duty and moved to Virginia Beach where he was a Transportation Specialist for Naval Special Warfare Command. Clayton has earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Aviation Operations from the Community College of the Air Force and a Bachelor of Science from Excelsior College. Mr. Hatfield is married to his wife, Tracy; He has two children, daughter Cayla and son Conner both resides in the Atlanta area.
Matthew Houston is currently the Dangerous Goods Transportation Safety - ESS Americas Compliance Leader at Honeywell. He has a total 17 years of hazmat transportation experience ranging from individual shipments of all modes to governance of dangerous goods transportation safety. Through the years he has held positions as Sr. Specialist, Transportation Regulatory Compliance, Transportation Emergency Response Core Team Leader, Electronics Logistics Team Lead, Import / Export Specialist, Import / Export Coordinator and Export Customer Service Representative. Matthew lives in New Jersey with his wife and five children. He received his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Business Administration from Rutgers University.
Dr. Christopher Hoyte is the Medical Director of the Rocky Mountain Poison Center and Professor of Emergency Medicine, Medical Toxicology, and Pharmacology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Dr Hoyte is also the Fellowship Director of the Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Safety Medical Toxicology Fellowship Program. He is the current President of the American Academy of Clinical Toxicology, serves on the editorial board of Clinical Toxicology, and the Medical Toxicology Sub-Board of the American Board of Emergency Medicine. He is also the Associate Vice Chair for Academic Affairs for the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Colorado Hospital. His research interest is in discovering better ways to deliver care to poisoned patients. He completed his emergency medicine residency at the Cook County Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, his medical toxicology fellowship at the Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center in Denver, Colorado, and his Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Colorado.
Shane Kelley currently serves as the Office of Hazardous Materials Safety’s Director for Standards and Rulemaking. In this role, he employs over twenty years of experience developing and implementing hazardous materials standards on a domestic and global scale. During his many years in public service, Shane has enjoyed working closely the regulated community and with DOT’s intermodal and interagency partners and public stakeholders to effectively advocate for safety standards that are in the public interest. He previously served as the Office’s Assistant International Standards Coordinator and maintains an active role in facilitating development of a safe and efficient global hazmat transportation system. In his spare time, Shane enjoys doing volunteer work for his church alongside of his wife Diana and playing the trumpet. Shane holds a Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in chemistry from Columbia Union College.
Pete Kirk has worked for Dow Chemical since 1990. In 1991, he deployed to Operation Desert Storm with his Michigan National Guard 146th Military Police Unit. After his return, he continued his work at Dow Chemical, and graduated from Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan with a BA degree in Criminal Justice. Over his career he has worked in several different roles within the Emergency Services and Security Department, in the Michigan Operations of Dow Chemical. Pete is a volunteer firefighter, EMT-B and HAZMAT Technician. He is an instructor around the United States on TRANSCAER® Training Tours, and a Fire Instructor at the Midland County Fire Academy. Pete has instructed at the Michigan Department of Homeland Security HAZMAT Training Center in Lansing Michigan. Pete is currently the North American Emergency Services and Security Operations Leader for Dow Chemical. Pete lives in Midland, Michigan with his wife Lisa of 35 years. Pete has two sons.
With over 12 years of experience in Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) sales and consulting, Nick has established a robust career dedicated to promoting and implementing best practices within the industrial manufacturing and oil and gas sectors. Specializing in environmental best practices he has consistently delivered solutions that not only ensure compliance with regulatory standards but also enhance operational efficiency and sustainability for clients. Throughout his career, Nick has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the industrial manufacturing and oil and gas industries. His expertise includes conducting thorough HSE assessments, developing comprehensive safety programs, and providing strategic consulting services aimed at minimizing environmental impact while maximizing safety and productivity. Nick's extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in these fields have made him a trusted advisor to numerous organizations, helping them navigate complex regulatory landscapes and adopt innovative practices that drive long-term success. His commitment to excellence and continuous improvement has earned him a reputation as a leader in HSE sales and consulting, with a proven track record of delivering measurable results.
Mr. Laughlin has over 30 years of experience in the Environmental Health and Safety Industry. He began his career working for a small solvent recovery firm and then moved to a full service Part B permitted facility where he assisted customers with assigning waste codes, shipping names, reporting, disposal technologies, and compliance issues. Mr. Laughlin also spent time as a coordinator for field service activities such as emergency response, tank cleaning and removal, decontamination of process lines, and large remedial projects. Mr. Laughlin has been conducting training programs in the areas of OSHA, EPA, DOT, CBRNE-Bioterrorism, as well as, customized programs spanning a wide variety of topics. He has appeared as a guest on both the Martha Stewart show and the Dr. Oz show. His background and experience provide participants numerous examples of the regulations in a practical light increasing retention of the material. His engaging style and presentation create a program that is both enjoyable and educational.