GEOFF Sheard, the vp for fan technology at air movement and controls firm Fläkt Woods, has been elected to the board of the Air Movement and Control Association International (AMCA), as its first European director for several years.

The not-for-profit organisation, founded in 1954 brings together the world's manufacturers of air system equipment. AMCA's scope includes every type of air handling system and component including fans, louvres, dampers and controls.

In addition to being Fläkt Woods' technical authority on all matters concerning rotating equipment, Sheard has global management responsibility for its multi-million global Tunnel & Metro business unit.

Dr. Sheard will be able to use both the Fläkt Woods network and AMCA's own resources to gather information on standards and legislation development around the world. He will combine the two resources to support AMCA's drive for global harmonisation which ultimately aims to reduce the non-tariff trade barriers that hinder products developed in one global region from being sold in another.

The former Rolls-Royce apprentice, earned an MBA from Cranfield University School of Management before becoming chief of turbomachinery engineering. Since joining Flakt Woods, he has lectured on both technical and management subjects at universities in the UK and overseas.

AMCA will exploit Dr. Sheard's experience to promote internationally the health and growth of the air handling industry in serving industrial, commercial, and residential markets.

Geoff Sheard said, 'I aim to improve significantly AMCA's focus on the international standards and legislation that impact our industry on a worldwide scale'.