HOUSTON (May 20, 2016) – ValvTechnologies, Inc., manufacturer of zero-leakage severe service isolation valve solutions, is pleased to announce that Todd Blackburn, Director of Quality Assurance, has been appointed to the VMA Manufacturer’s Committee for the Valve Manufacturer’s Association of America. 

The Manufacturer’s Committee assumes the important role of creating and moderating the program for the Manufacturer’s Workshop and Tour which is hosted by the VMA ever year. “Being named to the VMA Manufacturer’s Committee is an exciting opportunity. I’m proud to serve and consider myself fortunate to assume a position with this group.”

Blackburn has served at ValvTechnologies for two years and is responsible for global quality standards, systems and processes. He leads the development of the quality programs and initiatives to support the continuing growth and globalization of the company.

Blackburn worked at Curtiss-Wright for 11 years, most recently as Supplier Quality Assurance Manager with the responsibility for selection, qualification and auditing of all Electrical Mechanical Division (EMD) suppliers' quality assurance and manufacturing abilities. Additionally he held positions as Commercial Nuclear Quality Assurance Manager, Commercial Nuclear Quality Manager, China and Defense Products Quality Assurance Manager.

Blackburn spent almost 22 years in the US Navy operating, supervising and training all nuclear plant operators in mechanical, radiological and chemistry responsibilities. Responsible for both the reactor coolant and steam plant chemistry control and all shipboard radiological controls, he directed extensive audit and surveillance programs. Blackburn received two Navy Commendation Metals and six Navy Achievement Metals.

Founded in 1938, the Valve Manufacturers Association of America represents nearly 100 North American manufacturers of valves, actuators and controls. Members account for approximately 80 percent of total industrial valve shipments out of U.S. and Canadian facilities. The North American valve industry supplies approximately 35 percent of worldwide valve demand, and VMA member companies employ 30,000 men and women in supporting jobs. VMA is the only organization exclusively serving U.S. and Canadian manufacturers of industrial valves, actuators and controls. Products manufactured by members are used in numerous industries, including: chemical processing; petroleum refining; oil and gas exploration, distribution and transmission; power generation; nuclear power; water/wastewater; commercial construction; and pulp and paper.