The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) has announced a new vice president of federal affairs to serve the industry on Capitol Hill.
Anne Steckel, who will lead NBB’s Washington office, brings nearly 15 years of Washington experience to the job. Currently chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson of California, she has overseen legislative issues for several members of Congress, including U.S. Senate Majority Whip Richard Durbin of Illinois. Steckel has also served as director of government relations for the American Farm Bureau Federation and more recently with Growth Energy, a renewable fuels trade group.
“We feel very lucky and proud to have found someone of Anne’s caliber, background and expertise,” said Joe Jobe, CEO of NBB, the biodiesel industry trade association. “She is a real Washington pro and a leader in the renewable energy sector. I know that she will be an effective advocate for the biodiesel industry as we continue to grow and expand as America’s first Advanced Biofuel.”
Starting in late August, Steckel is arriving at a time when the biodiesel industry is on track for a record year of production. Her primary focus for the near-term will be urging Congress to pass a long-term extension of a tax incentive that is spurring new biodiesel production and sustaining thousands of good, American jobs.
“Biodiesel is boosting our economy, improving the environment and making the United States more energy secure,” said Steckel. “I am excited to help lead such a vibrant industry with so much potential for growth that improves the way we fuel our economy.”
Steckel takes over the position from Manning Feraci, who left NBB recently to lead government affairs at the Solar Energy Industries Association.