The American Association of Professional Farriers (AAPF) was launched January 1 by ten well-known US and Canadian farriers, most of whom have been involved in governance and policy making in other farrier organizations. They see an opportunity to stimulate interest in continuing professional development for farriers by giving credentials that must eventually be maintained by attending farrier education events.
The founding members and board of directors are:
· President - Jeff Ridley APF CJF TE (Leighton, Iowa)
· Vice President - Dave Farley APF CF (Coshocton, Ohio)
· Treasurer - Ed Reardon APF CJF (Lone Jack, Missouri)
Directors:
o Roy Bloom APF CJF (Drummond, Wisconsin)
o Dave Dawson APF (Uxbridge, Ontario)
o Jennifer Horn APF CJF (Dafter, Michigan)
o Scott Lampert APF (Lake Elmo, Minnesota)
o Bob Pethick APF CJF (Califon, New Jersey)
o Steve Prescott APF CJF (Hardeeville, South Carolina)
o Doug Workman APF CJF (Cleveland, Georgia)
The mission statement on the association's by-laws states: The American Association of Professional Farriers will promote the integrity of the farrier industry by strengthening the knowledge and skills of its members through continuing education and support at the state, national and international levels while improving overall equine health through collaboration with other industry professionals.
The AAPF hired Bryan Quinsey, former executive director of the American Farrier's Association, to serve as its executive director. Most recently, Quinsey was a Customer Service and Marketing staff member at Farrier Product Distribution (FPD) in Shelbyville, Kentucky. The association will be headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Regular membership in the AAPF is open to any full-time or part-time farrier or veterinarian. Associate membership is open to all other interested individuals. Horse Owners are encouraged to join at no charge.
Additional information about the AAPF can be found at www.ProfessionalFarriers.com