Newswise — Utilimetrics, the trade association for smart metering and innovative technologies, announces the appointment of Joel Hoiland, CAE, as its first full-time chief executive officer. In this position, Hoiland will oversee the strategic positioning and day-to-day operations for the organization.

"Joel brings 30 years of diverse leadership and trade association experience that will further Utilimetrics' position as the leading association and advocate for utility automation," said Utilimetrics' Chief Elected Officer Bernie Bujnowski. "With the Obama administration's focus on energy efficiency and smart grid technology, Utilimetrics has an unprecedented opportunity to advance our mission. I cannot think of anyone more qualified than Joel to lead the organization " especially at this time. His experience, leadership, and dedication to the task at hand will serve us well. This is one of our first steps in implementing our transition to a self-staffed organization."

Prior to joining Utilimetrics, Hoiland was CEO of The KBD Group, a management consulting firm. He has also served in CEO positions with a number of national and international trade groups including the International Warehouse Logistics Association, the Window and Door Manufacturers Association, the National Association of Electrical Distributors, and the Minnesota Grocers Association. He has also worked with numerous other groups in consulting or interim executive assignments.

Hoiland is recognized by the American Society of Association Executives as a Certified Association Executive (CAE). He is a graduate of the University of Delaware's Institute of Organization Management and received his BA in English from Bemidji State University in Bemidji, Minnesota.

"Utilimetrics' mission to bring utilities and consumers together through technology is very compelling." said Hoiland. "Associations are a powerful force to achieve agreed-upon outcomes. There is no greater thrill than the achievement of collective objectives toward a worthy goal. I'm impressed with the strong sense of commitment among members, and the associations past achievements. The capability and capacity of Utilimetrics will increase significantly once a dedicated, full-time staff is in place to further expand on our strategic objectives."

About Utilimetrics Utilimetrics is the world's premier association for smart metering and innovative technologies, providing education and advocacy for utilities and information about enabling technologies that lead to improved operations, customer service and resource utilization. Its more than 1,400 members represent hundreds of utilities and corporations in the gas, water and electric industries around the world. Members develop and implement automated resource-management technologies and participate in standardization and regulatory activities. For more information, visit www.utilimetrics.org.