The Gypsum Association announced that Michael Schmeida, MSc, LEED AP, joined the staff beginning October 5th. Michael has nearly 15 years of experience in construction products, most recently as Corporate Manager, Stewardship for plumbing industry product manufacturer Oatey. In that position, he held sustainability, compliance, code and regulatory oversight across all Oatey brands.

For a decade, he served Tremco's Commercial Sealant and Waterproofing Division, beginning as a Technical Service Representative and leaving as the Division's Director, Compliance and Sustainability. Michael has authored numerous articles for publication and is a frequent speaker on issues related to sustainability, green chemistry, and consumer safety.

Michael's standards and codes experience includes participation in over three dozen organizations.  He has actively participated in ten ASTM committees, currently chairs ASTM E60 on Sustainability, and leads a task group working on a guide for alternatives analysis.  In addition, Michael is a member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standing Standard Project Committee 189.1, which sets standards for the development of most high-performance green buildings.

"Michael's education and experience in the building products arena makes him a valuable addition to the Gypsum Association staff," said Executive Director Stephen H. Meima. "His combination of technical expertise and extensive participation in codes and standards bodies ensures that the Association remains responsive to the needs of the public, the industry and our members."

Michael holds both a MS and BS in chemistry from The University of Akron. He lives with his wife, Melanie, outside of Akron, Ohio