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Staff
Julie L. Heckman - Executive Director
[email protected]
Ms. Julie L. Heckman has served as the Executive Director of the APA for 25 years and is responsible for the overall operation of the association. She directs the regulatory affairs of the APA and is the principal representative of the APA with the various agencies that interface with the fireworks industry. She has considerable expertise in workplace safety, consumer products, and hazardous materials regulations and serves as the key spokesperson for the industry with press and media. Ms. Heckman serves a Principal member of the NFPA Technical Committee on Pyrotechnics, the Interested Parties for Hazardous Materials Transportation Coalition (often referred to as the IP Group) and participates in several additional fireworks-related trade/interest groups.
Michele Basham joined the APA in late 2024 and brings a wealth of experience in association management, specializing in meeting planning and member services. Michele is skilled in logistics, budgeting, and vendor management and is responsible for coordinating seamless conventions that align with the association’s goals. Additionally, Michele plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall member experience by fostering strong relationships and providing an exceptional member experience. Michele is an active member of the American Society of Association Executives and the American Marketing Association. She resides in the Washington, DC area.
 Annelise Gillespie – Manager, Admin. & Member Services
[email protected]
Ms. Annelise Gillespie has been with the APA since 2006 and is responsible for managing the association's administrative, logistical, and communications activities to support the Executive Director in achieving the association’s strategic objectives. Additionally, she is responsible for developing & managing member programs as well as handling association conference planning including sponsorship, advertising and exhibitions.
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Michele Basham - Manager, Member Services and Meetings