NDA welcomes six new directors at 2026 convention

The new directors will help guide the association’s strategic priorities and strengthen member engagement.

Board room

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The Washington-based National Demolition Association (NDA) announced its 2026-2027 board of directors at its Demolition Phoenix 2026 event, Feb. 4-7. 

NDA says the newly elected directors will help guide the association’s strategic priorities, strengthen member engagement and advance safe and professional demolition practices across the industry.  

The following members were elected to the board of directors: 

  • Donald Barris III, The DB3 Group, Denver. 
  • Drew Earnest, D.H. Griffin Wrecking Co. Inc., Greensboro, North Carolina. 
  • Michael Gilmartin, Company Wrench, Charlotte, North Carolina. 
  • Logan Marcicki, North American Dismantling Corporation, Lapeer, Michigan. 
  • Brian Priestly, Priestly Demolition, King City, Ontario. 
  • Steve Schwartz, Haines & Kibblehouse Inc., Marlton, New Jersey. 
  • Doug Thomas, Independence Demolition, Independence, Ohio. 

The association says the new board members bring a wide range of industry experience, leadership capabilities and professional insights that will support its mission to provide education, advocacy and community for demolition professionals.  

“Our board is the backbone of our association’s vision and growth,” NDA President Ben Hayden says. “We’re excited to welcome these six talented leaders, each of whom brings unique strengths to help further our commitment to safety, innovation and excellence within the demolition industry.” 

The following members will continue to serve as the executive committee: 

  • President: Ben Hayden, Hayden Wrecking Corporation, East Saint Louis, Illinois. 

  • Vice President: Dennis McGarel, Brandenburg Industrial Service Company, Chicago. 

  • Secretary: Ed Vernier, Charah Solutions, Charlotte. 

  • Treasurer: David Dickson, Dickson Company, Tacoma, Washington. 

  • Past-President: James Milburn, Milburn Demolition, Bellwood, Illinois. 

NDA also extended gratitude to three outgoing board members whose terms have concluded: 

  • Andrew DeBaise, Rocky Mountain Recycling Inc., Commerce City, Colorado. 

  • Scott Laird, Trifecta Services Company, Charlotte. 

  • Brian McKinney, Gayanga Co., Detroit. 

The association says these members made significant contributions through their service, leadership and dedication to its programs, initiative and long-term strategic goals.  

“We are deeply appreciative of the time, passion and expertise our outgoing board members have given to NDA,” Hayden says. “Their impact and accomplishments will continue to shape the association well into the future.”