HELENA, MONTANA – The Montana Coal Council (MCC) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Molly Schwend as executive director effective in June. The board has the fullest confidence that Molly will use her years of coal experience, environmental regulations knowledge and passion for the industry to represent the coal mines in Montana for years to come.
“I am pleased to welcome Molly as the executive director for the Montana Coal Council,” said Keith Walters, MCC Board President. “She has been instrumental in advocating for the coal industry and I know she will be a great asset for us going forward.”
“Bud Clinch served the Council for 15 years before retiring and we appreciate his service,” said Keith Walters. “His institutional knowledge and network at the Capitol, as well as across the state, served the Council well and we wish him the best with his retirement.”
A graduate of Montana Tech, Molly’s career in coal started in 2006 when she was hired by Westmoreland Mining as an engineer. However, growing up in Colstrip she has always had a pulse on the industry. Molly worked as an engineer for nine years, gaining knowledge and a deeper understanding of coal mining ranging from mine design and reclamation, to permitting and working with government agencies. She later took a position at Cloud Peak Energy as the Manager of Public Affairs and Community Relations where she worked alongside industry leaders to educate the public about the importance of coal as a low cost, reliable source of energy that also provides safe, good-paying jobs.
“I am grateful to the Montana Coal Council Board of Directors for their trust in me and the opportunity to serve as executive director of this incredible organization,” said Molly Schwend, Executive Director. “My passion for Montana’s coal industry, combined with the utmost respect for the Coal Council’s mission, paves the way for my enthusiasm to play a larger role in the industry. I’m excited to be working with the board and other leaders in natural resources to champion some of greater issues we are facing.”
The Montana Coal Council will continue to actively monitor issues affecting the coal industry, especially heading into another legislative session. Additionally, MCC will support the membership through regular communication, directory distribution and advocacy for the industry.
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