The Oil Containment Association Board of Directors held its annual reorganization meeting on January 8, 2026, electing officers to serve through December 2026. The OCA Board consists of 15 elected directors representing member organizations across North America.
2026 OCA Officers
- President: Thomas A. Whitfield, Vice President of Environmental Affairs, Gulf States Energy Partners (Houston, TX)
- Vice President: Dr. Patricia Chen, Environmental Engineering Manager, Pacific Coast Industrial (Los Angeles, CA)
- Secretary: Marcus O. Williams, Director of Regulatory Compliance, Central States Pipeline Co. (Kansas City, MO)
- Treasurer: Sandra K. Kowalski, CFO, Northern Plains Environmental Services (Bismarck, ND)
- At-Large Directors: James Brennan (Northeast Region), Dr. Carlos Mendez (Southwest Region), Angela Richardson (Southeast Region)
Outgoing Officers Recognized
The Board recognized outgoing President Dr. Eleanor Hayes, who served two terms as OCA President from 2022-2026, for her leadership during a period of significant growth for the association. Under her leadership, OCA membership grew from 892 organizations to more than 1,847, three new regional chapters were established, and the Certified Containment Specialist program was launched.
President Whitfield’s Statement
“I am honored to serve as OCA President and I look forward to working with our outstanding board and staff to continue building the value we provide to our members,” said Whitfield. “Our priorities for 2026 include expanding our regulatory affairs program, launching the updated CCS certification curriculum, and growing our membership in the renewable energy sector.”