Senior Director of Governmental Affairs
Utah Manufacturers Association
Bio:
Josh Brown has a strong breadth of knowledge in manufacturing, mining, regulatory, environment, and natural resource policy. Having served as chairman of the Utah Manufacturers Association in 2018 and 2019 and being an executive board member of the association, Josh brings a unique, real-world application of manufacturing both in the hands-on operations and external policy/regulatory impacts.
Before UMA, Josh worked at Rio Tinto Americas, Rio Tinto Kennecott, and Resolution Copper for nearly 18 years. Over the past 14 years, he has managed and supported Kennecott’s governmental needs for county, state, and federal endeavors. Josh joined Rio Tinto in 2006 at Kennecott Utah Copper as a member of the Business Improvement team. During that time, he has served as a manager of Business Improvement, Master Black Belt at various Rio Tinto business units, Six Sigma/Lean Instructor, and special projects leader.
Prior to mining, Josh worked in food processing and medical device manufacturing. Work in manufacturing includes process engineering, new product development, design patents, regulatory compliance, and business improvement.
Josh holds a BS in Chemical and Fuels Engineering from the University of Utah, a Master of Business Administration from Westminster College, and a certified Business Improvement Six Sigma Master Blackbelt.
Title: Great Salt Lake Business Council: Engaging the Business Voice
Abstract: Many Utah businesses are deeply concerned about Great Salt Lake but have struggled to access good, real-time information and know how best to engage. This growing group of Utah businesses and trade organizations are working together to make sure Utah’s business voice is heard when it comes to efforts to conserve water and to protect Great Salt Lake. Tim Hawkes and other members of the Business Council will share an update on this effort and explain why business engagement is vital to help sustain the Lake.