Rod Hartl is the general merchandising manager at Scheel's. He joined the company in 1999, and works primarily with buyers in the gun, archery, hunting and fishing fields to ensure product selections fit Scheels’ brand and markets. Hartl and Bass Pro Shops representative Dean Snelson represent multi-channel retailers on the ATA Board of Directors. Scheel's currently operates 26 stores in 11 states. The first Scheel's store opened in 1902, with a retail selection focused on hardware and general merchandise. The company added sporting goods to its stores in 1954, which transitioned its focus to sports, sportswear and footwear. Scheel's has been an ATA member since 2010. Hartl said serving on the ATA Board gets Scheels more involved in the industry and ATA programs. He intends to give “valuable input [to the Board] and help the industry grow in upcoming years.” Hartl hopes to boost youth participation in archery, which helps grow the sport and all companies in the industry. Hartl also looks forward to working with fellow ATA Board members to find resolutions to top-priority issues affecting the industry. Hartl has a degree in business management and marketing from the University of Valley City State in North Dakota.