Mark Ames | Inspirational Leader Turning Goals into Results

Mark Ames is a senior nonprofit association leader with over 20 years of experience who blends behavioral science expertise with data-driven advocacy to achieve transformative outcomes. Known for his entrepreneurial approach, Mark has reshaped how organizations influence public policy, building coalitions, mobilizing grassroots efforts, and driving organizational growth.

As Chief Advocacy Officer at the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), Mark delivered historic wins, including securing the organization’s first federal grant—a $500,000 CDC pandemic-response award—and boosting grassroots engagement by 850% from 2022 to 2024. His innovative strategies have led to groundbreaking federal and state legislation and regulations, with AIHA cited in over 2,000 policy documents.

A nationally recognized leader, Mark has been honored as one of the nation’s Top Lobbyists by The Hill, the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics, and the Advocacy Association. His achievements extend beyond policy to coalition leadership, with key roles in the Build America’s School Infrastructure Coalition (BASIC), High-Performance Buildings Coalition, and ASAE’s Advocacy Council.

Mark’s unique ability to connect strategy with human behavior fuels his success in leadership and mentoring. He is deeply committed to supporting others in their journey to excellence, mentoring emerging leaders, and sharing his expertise through public speaking, webinars, online courses, his Leader Ladder newsletter, and book, The 30-Minute Leader: Your Guide to Influence, Power, and Transformation, which provides actionable insights into leadership, management, and personal growth.

Mark earned his Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with honors from The American University in Washington, DC, is a Certified Association AI Professional (AAiP), an Education Policy Fellow, and holds multiple certificates in artificial intelligence and transformative leadership. Active in nonprofit leadership, he continues to advance policy solutions that improve lives and build a better future.