Capt. John Prater has released the following announcement:

“I am proud to announce the election and ratification of Capt. W. Randolph Helling (Northwest) as vice-president–finance/treasurer by the Association’s Executive Board and Board of Directors. Capt. Helling will oversee the general financial and fiscal administration of the union.

“Most recently, Capt. Helling served as my executive administrator. His election as vice-president follows the unfortunate departure of Capt. Chris Beebe, who was elected to that office twice. While Capt. Beebe made incredible and lasting contributions to our union, I know that Capt. Helling will conduct the business of his office following the tremendous example Chris set.

“A 22-year veteran of Northwest Airlines, Randy served as the Northwest MEC vice-chairman in 2006 and was secretary/treasurer and vice-chairman of the pilot group’s Detroit Local Council. He was also a member of the MEC’s Legislative, Strategic Planning, Training, Financial Review, and Professional Standards Committees. He began his flying career with Air Midwest in the early 1980s.

“Capt. Helling is the 40th officer to hold the national office of secretary, secretary/treasurer, or vice-president–finance/treasurer, since the Association’s birth in 1931. He is the third to hold the title of vice-president–finance/treasurer. He lives with his wife, Amy, in a suburb of St. Louis. They have four children.”