Hank is a graduate of Gettysburg College (Gettysburg, PA) where he majored in physics and chemistry. In addition, he attended the Univ. of Arizona graduate school where he majored in physics. Having spent a lifetime in science and engineering as well as many years deeply involved in a variety of political organizations, he is well qualified to serve as moderator of the Green Coast Post.
He was a member of the Governing Board of the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) for seven years. He served as Board Chairman for the last three years and as Vice-Chairman during the preceding four years. He was involved in the 1989, 1991 and 1994 Air Quality Management Plans and participated in their evolvement with each succeeding plan. Upon leaving the Board, he was named Chairman Emeritus by his fellow Board Members.
Mr. Wedaa is also President of Valley Environmental Associates, an organization he started in 1970 that specializes in environmental studies, air quality issues, airport issues, intergovernmental relations, new technology business activities, etc. He previously was employed by Northrop Corporation, Martin Company in Orlando, Florida and Aerojet General Corporation. Prior to this, he was employed from 1950-58 at theU.S. Naval Weapons Center at China Lake, California as a rocket scientist/weapons system specialist.
Hank is well informed on methods of operating with political entities since he was elected to seven four year terms on the Yorba Linda City Council. In addition, he is a Past-President of Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), former Chairman of the North American Clean Air Alliance for zero emission vehicles, a co-founder of Fuel Cells for Transportation, Past President of the California Association of Councils of Government and many others. Currently, he serves as Vice-Chairman and Director of Hydrogen 2000, a non-profit Corporation dedicated to dispensing educational information regarding hydrogen as well as encouraging its use. He is also President of the California Hydrogen Business Council. He is a former member of the U.S. Department of Energy's Hydrogen Technical Advisory Panel (HTAP) where he co-chaired the Strategic Planning Committee. He is a member of the National Hydrogen Association, a member of Fuel Cells 2000; as well as other related energy organizations.
In October 2003, the South Coast AQMD held their annual Clean Air Awards ceremonies. The purpose of these ceremonies is to recognize the outstanding achievements of individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions toward improving the air we breathe here in Southern California. At these ceremonies, Mr. Wedaa was honored with a Clean Air Award in the category of Leadership in Government.