We are looking for members who bring passion for the mission, a collaborative mindset, and a willingness to contribute time, energy, and ideas to the future of the organization. We welcome applicants with experience in conservation, fisheries science, advocacy, public policy, communications, fundraising, nonprofit leadership, finance, education, events, construction, and community engagement. We also welcome members whose strongest qualification is a deep commitment to the future of recreational fishing and a desire to help the organization grow and lead. In accordance with Association by-laws, applicants must be members in good standing.

President

The President provides leadership to the Association and Board of Directors and helps ensure the organization is moving strategically, collaboratively, and effectively in service of its mission. This role helps coordinate the activities of the Association, presides over board and Association meetings, works with the Executive Director to prepare board meeting agendas, helps maintain communication across the organization, represents the board in managing the Executive Director, oversees the Executive Director’s annual review process, and appoints special committees as needed. This role is well-suited for a leader who can bring vision, accountability, and a strong commitment to the success of the entire organization. The President serves for a two-year term, and for not more than two terms consecutively.

Vice President

The Vice President supports the President and helps provide continuity in leadership across the organization. In addition to assuming the duties of the President in the President’s temporary absence—or stepping into the office if it becomes vacant—this role supports the work of the board and takes on additional responsibilities as requested by the President or Board of Directors. This is an excellent role for someone who wants to play a key leadership role in guiding the organization and supporting board effectiveness. The Vice-President serves for a two-year term concurrent with the president’s term and not more than two consecutive terms.

Secretary

The Secretary plays an essential role in the governance and continuity of Northwest Steelheaders. This position records and preserves board and special meeting minutes, distributes draft minutes to the Board of Directors, maintains an up-to-date copy of the bylaws, helps ensure board members have access to key governing documents, maintains records of Association activities, the Policies and Procedures Manual, the list of those eligible to vote at the annual meeting, and board and conservation policies. This role is ideal for someone who is organized, detail-oriented, and committed to strong governance and institutional continuity. The Secretary serves for a term of one year, without term limit.

Treasurer

The Treasurer helps safeguard the financial health of the Association and ensures the board has the information it needs to make sound decisions. This role oversees Association funds and financial records, reviews the Association’s finances annually, reports financial results to the Board of Directors, develops the annual budget for board approval, maintains records of fiduciary and contractual obligations, and helps ensure Association and chapter funds are properly managed and kept separate. This role is a strong fit for someone who values transparency, accountability, and the long-term financial strength of the organization. The Treasurer serves for a term of one year, without term limit.

Vice President of Conservation

The Vice President of Conservation helps lead the Association’s voice on conservation issues. Working in cooperation with Association staff, board members, and contractors, this role develops relationships with decision makers, helps write and present testimony on behalf of the Association, and supports the organization’s conservation and fisheries policy priorities. This role is a strong opportunity for someone who wants to help ensure Northwest Steelheaders remains a credible and effective advocate for fish, habitat, and science-based conservation policy. The Vice President of Conservation serves for a term of one year, without term limit.

Vice President of Government Affairs

The Vice President of Government Affairs helps lead the Association’s advocacy on legislative and public policy matters, with a primary focus on state government issues and proposals. Working in cooperation with Association staff, board members, and contractors, this role monitors relevant legislation and conservation issues, develops relationships with decision makers, and supports the drafting of testimony, policy materials, and advocacy communications on behalf of the Association. This is an important role for someone who wants to help translate the Association’s mission into meaningful policy engagement and legislative action. The Vice President of Government Affairs serves for a term of one year, without term Government Affairs.

At-Large Board Members

At-Large Board Members are vital to the strength and capacity of the Board of Directors. Under the bylaws, these positions are intended to bring needed knowledge, skills, and perspective to the board, including expertise in areas such as legal affairs, biological science, marketing, development, communications, finance, conservation, or other mission-supporting disciplines. At-Large Board Members help shape long-range priorities, approve policy positions, support bylaw development, uphold fiduciary responsibilities, and contribute to the overall direction of the Association. These roles are ideal for members who want to use their professional expertise, lived experience, or leadership skills to help Northwest Steelheaders grow and succeed. At-Large Board Members serve for a term of one year, without term limit.