WhiteWater, a leading waterpark manufacturer, has announced that Franceen Gonzales, Executive Vice President, Americas, has been appointed as Chairperson of ASTM International’s F24 committee.
WhiteWater is proud to announce the historic appointment of Franceen Gonzales to the role of Chairperson for ASTM International’s F24 committee – Amusement Rides and Devices. Gonzales is the first woman to hold this post.
Gonzales has worked hard throughout her 35-year career in the industry to make parks safer for all visitors. During this time, she has built leadership teams, developed operating protocols and consulted on the design of new water parks and resorts, as well as working on aquatic risk management.
The importance of safety
Gonzales has held several key leadership roles during her career, within groups such as the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), World Waterpark Association (WWA), Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), and AIMS International. She has also received several industry awards in recognition of her voluntary work.
“Safety in our industry is personal for me. Having been an operator of parks for 30 years and as a design/manufacturer with WhiteWater, I see every day why safety is so important. It’s fundamental to making sure park guests are enjoying places they will come back to and is a core driver of business success,” says Gonzales.
“Today, we are seeing more recognition of the talents of women. I’m inspired by others in this business, especially by those who lead and those in technical roles. It’s exciting to know that this is an industry in which women can succeed.”
This appointment reflects her ability to undertake technical work and to create connections. She will lead more than 1000 motivated volunteers, who are committed to ride safety. WhiteWater hopes that this selection will be a first step in the appointment of more women around the world to similar roles.
Recently, WhiteWater also announced that its President and CEO, Geoff Chutter, was named as Ernst & Young’s Canadian Entrepreneur of the Year 2019.
