James McGovern, owner and marketing director for Rinehart Targets, joined the ATA Board of Directors in April 2018 and served as vice chair. In 2022, he was elected chairman of the Board. During his four-year term he hopes to invigorate the archery and bowhunting industry by attracting and engaging new hunters and target shooters.

McGovern’s primary responsibilities at Rinehart include managing daily operations to ensure the company’s viability and profitability. He took many business classes at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, which helped when he transitioned from his role as general manager to owner in 2010. That’s when he and his wife, Barbara, bought the company from her father, John Rinehart.

McGovern has worked in the industry since 2005. During that time he has seen many factors “chip away at our hunter participation numbers,” including limited land access, reduced deer populations, and more competition for people’s time and attention.

McGovern hopes to encourage new shooters to try archery by showing that it’s a fun alternative to most other activities. He believes those efforts will increase participation and sustain bowhunting’s heritage. His ultimate goal is to strengthen the industry’s bowhunting business, and boost recreational archery nationwide.

He attends the annual ATA Trade Show, and he’s excited to work with the ATA Board of Directors.

“It’s a huge honor to be selected by a group of peers for this position,” McGovern said. “The Board is comprised of very talented individuals, and I look forward to working with them. I also hope to contribute to conservation efforts, and help drive this organization forward.”