Our Team
John Ward, Principal
Wardo's colorful career has touched a wide variety of industries ranging from industrial and radioactive waste management to medical device manufacturing, with a healthy dose of counseling for local, state, and national political candidates along the way. He has particular expertise in fossil fuels. Wardo has worked in every level of the coal value chain, including mining, transportation, utilities, and coal ash recycling. Wardo was formerly Vice President, Marketing and Government Affairs, for Headwaters—a leading provider of pre-combustion and post-combustion clean coal technologies and services, as well as the world's largest coal ash recycler. He is a former board member and past president of the American Coal Council. He serves on the National Coal Council as appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Energy. He is Chairman of the American Coal Ash Association’s Government Relations Committee and participates in numerous industry groups related to the manufacturing and use of construction materials containing recycled content. He is also Chairman of Citizens for Recycling First and serves as Executive Director of the NCTA.
John Simpson, Vice President Editorial Services
John Simpson has over 30 years' experience as a writer, reporter, and public relations professional in the energy and manufacturing sectors. Opinion/thought leadership pieces, magazine/newsletter editing, and website development/social media are among his specialties—and his work has appeared in national publications including Industry Week, Crain's Business, and Public Utilities Fortnightly. When he's not formulating communications for corporate or association clients, John can be found prowling the rugby pitches of greater San Diego, where he serves as a player, coach, and referee.
Thomas Adams, Executive Director, American Coal Ash Association
Thomas H. Adams has been the executive director of the American Coal Ash Association (ACAA) since February 2009. Prior to joining the ACAA he was employed by the American Concrete Institute. Mr. Adams has over 30 years of experience in the ready mixed concrete industry in a variety of management positions. He is currently active in a variety of technical and trade organizations ASTM International, the American Concrete Institute, the Electric Power Research Institute, and the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association. Mr. Adams is a Fellow of the American Concrete Institute and a recipient of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association’s Richard D. Gaynor Award.
Thomas Adams is a native of Detroit and attended Wayne State University and Aquinas College studying business administration and strategic management.
Alyssa Barto, Executive Assistant, American Coal Ash Association
Alyssa Barto has served as executive assistant and member liaison for the American Coal Ash Association since 2012. A graduate of Northern Michigan University, she previously spent many years working in state and city government. Alyssa is a proud Michigander who grew up as a Troll (i.e., “below” the Mackinac Bridge) but was lucky enough to live for seven years as a Yooper (in the Upper Peninsula). She’s settled in Fenton, Michigan, now with her husband and four adorable (no bias here) sons. Her favorite part of her job, other than the work itself, is catching up with the ACAA membership whenever she gets the chance.
Melinda K Canter, Director of Marketing and Member Services, NCTA
Melinda Canter has over 20 years of coordinating events along with providing professional support for non-profit trade associations. For the NCTA, she is specifically focused on administration, conference support, sales, marketing, and member services. She collaborates with boards, members, support staff, and vendors to achieve the goals of the organization. She particularly enjoys that her job is different every day; a new puzzle to solve.
Melinda has connected with individuals in various fields and roles, from hospitality, mining, oil and gas, marketing, government, law, and regulators in various sectors of the energy industry. She particularly appreciates the relationships cultivated over the years with the NCTA membership, they put a smile on her face every day!
She is a “Colorful Colorado” native and enjoys the beauty of the state, along with various recreational activities.
Bruce Parker, Writer and Editor
Bruce Parker has worked nearly 30 years in the publishing industry, producing content for a variety of print and digital publications. His roles have ranged from state government reporter and educational writer to managing editor. Prior to joining John Ward Inc., he delivered news journalism and business education content to organizations including True North Reports, Watchdog.org (now The Center Square), Cengage, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and CitySearch. In his spare time he enjoys riding bike trails, exploring restaurants and city attractions, and listening to live music. His recent adventures include learning to play tennis and golf.
Aysia Thurber, Senior Account Executive
Aysia is our Senior Account Executive, she has a passion for business, social media, and marketing. Aysia has experience in business relations,social media content, and website design. She has amazing attention to detail with a great eye for creating content that represents your brand. Aysia understands that your brand is unique to you, so your website and social media should encapsulate that. When Aysia isn't behind her laptop, she is out exploring the world with her family. Aysia enjoys camping, boating, and anything that gets her outdoors.
Alyssa Dalton, Account Executive
Alyssa is our Account Executive, she is our right hand man. Alyssa is very personable and a great problem solver. Alyssa enjoys putting her innovative skills to use. Alyssa is currently working towards her goal of becoming a Nurse, she has a great passion for helping others. Alyssa likes to keep her mind and body healthy, she enjoys working out and playing with her dog, Harley.