Hello, and Happy New Year, to my "soon to be" fellow ARRL Board members, and the League Officers! I just wanted to give you a brief introduction of myself, in case you don't already know me. 

By profession, I spent 35 years in the high technology field, (microwave and digital telecommunications), first as an engineer and engineering manager, then moved into product management and marketing. I retired in 2014 as the Director of Product Marketing for a telecom equipment manufacturer, having focused on strategic partnerships with OEM suppliers, and collaboration between our international business units. Most importantly, I was also responsible for both customer attainment, and retention, an arena that seems to be challenging the League at the moment.

I am newcomer to the world of ARRL politics, but have been an ARRL member since the early 1970's and a Life Member almost as long.  Being a long time and passionate member I have a vested interest in the success of the League, just as all of you have. Yes, I will also admit that I'm part of the DX/Contesting community, one that is vilified by some, but am also involved with ARES here at both the local, and our state level. I recognize that there are multiple facets of amateur radio that all must be addressed, massaged, and made feeling as important parts of the organization as a whole. 

One thing I am not, is a "lemming". I ran for this office because I believe our Division needed the best representation possible, within an aura of transparency to rebuild member trust in what the League does, and how it operates. I ran a campaign based on issues both I, and apparently my Division, feel are important, not personalities, or the right of ascension. I'm here now, and looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead. I also look forward to working with all of you to help fulfill the Mission of the League, and get the many initiatives outlined in the ARRL Strategic Plan completed without political drama.  Let's all get to work for the betterment of the League and our members.

73 and HNY;

Mike Ritz, W7VO

Director Elect- Northwestern Division