Darrell Smith To Lead USIPA As Executive Director

The U.S. Industrial Pellet Assn. (USIPA) announced the appointment of Darrell Smith as its new Executive Director. Smith brings a wealth of association leadership experience and diverse industry expertise to USIPA. 

Active in the public policy arena since 2002, Smith has a strong background in public policy, sustainability, safety and supply chain having represented the mining, petroleum, waste and chemical industries. Recently, he served as President and CEO of the National Waste and Recycling Assn. followed by Executive Vice President of the Essential Minerals Assn.

“I’m excited to join an industry driving positive change in so many ways from promoting sustainable forestry to supporting decarbonization pathways across multiple sectors,” says Smith. “There are tremendous opportunities ahead for USIPA, and I look forward to working with its members and stakeholders to advance the association’s goals and to helping lead the industry to new heights.”  

Prior to his public policy career in Washington, D.C., Smith worked in a variety of industries as a safety and environmental professional. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a Master of Science in leadership from The Citadel, a Master of environmental science from the University of South Carolina, and a Ph.D. in environmental conflict from George Mason University. Smith is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH). Originally from South Carolina, he now resides in Washington, D.C. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Darrell as our new Executive Director,” says Thomas Reilley, USIPA Board Chair. “His strategic vision and proven leadership will be invaluable as USIPA enters its next chapter and the role of renewable carbon in the global energy transition continues to evolve.”

Smith takes over from Elizabeth Woodworth who served as USIPA’s Interim Executive Director for the past 18 months. “Elizabeth has played a pivotal role in guiding the association while leading an extensive national search for a permanent Executive Director,” adds Reilley. “We are grateful for her steady leadership and many contributions that have positioned USIPA for continued success.”