Scott Kelley has been hired by the United Fishermen of Alaska (UFA), the commercial fishing trade association for the state, as its new executive administrator, the organization recently announced.
Kelley, who formerly served as the director of commercial fisheries for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, will assume his new role with UFA starting in June. He is replacing retiring UFA employee Mark Vinsel, who served the association for 18 years in various capacities, including executive director.
UFA Executive Director Frances Leach said Kelley, who lives in Juneau, brings a wealth of experience to the position as well as a network of valuable connections with state fishermen.
“Scott’s immense knowledge of commercial fisheries in Alaska is well-respected and his relationship with commercial fishermen is extremely valuable. We are very lucky to have him join our organization,” Leach said.
UFA represents 35 member organizations from fisheries throughout Alaska and the waters that surround it. A non-profit, UFA’s primary aim is to “promote and protect the common interests of the Alaska commercial fishing industry, as a vital component of Alaska's social and economic well-being,” according to the association’s website.
