Business briefs for June 29

Executives help with Habitat project Ralph Parker, vice president of operations at Underwriters Laboratories, in Camas, recently took part in Evergreen Habitat for Humanity's "CEO Build," in Vancouver. First Independent Bank Chief Executive Officer and Chairman Bill Firstenburg hosted the inaugural event, which also included participation from Bryan Ableidinger, Ron Bertolucci, Bill Bryant, Pete DuBois, Jeff Firstenburg, Scott Firstenburg, Kelly Helmes, Brian Hopper, Elie Kassab, Greg Kimsey, Julian Levi, Roch Manley, Bill Morrison, Jerry Nutter, Matt Olson, Dennis Smith and John Weigel. For more information, call 737-1759 or visit www.ehfh.org. SWCA hires new executive director The Southwest Washington Contractors Association recently hired a new executive director. Mike Bomar, previously public affairs director for the Building Industry Association of Clark County, will be charged with growing the organization through enhanced member services and community partnerships. Bomar, a long time Clark County resident, received the Vancouver Business Journal's "Accomplished & Under 40" award and was elected class speaker for Leadership Clark County in 2009. Previously, Bomar played baseball at the University of Washington where he earned his bachelor's degree in political communication. After playing a year of Minor League Baseball with the San Diego Padres organization, he returned home to earn his masters in public affairs at Washington State University Vancouver. Since 2004, he has represented the building industry in a variety of roles including government affairs, political advocacy and public relations. "I am excited about the opportunity to lead a group that is well-positioned to make a difference. SWCA has a long history, a great foundation of committed members, and a lot of potential for organizational growth." SWCA President Amy Davis of West Coast Bank is excited about the new hire. "I look forward to working with [Bomar] and watching the organization grow and expand through his leadership."

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