The North Alabama International Trade Association has appointed four new members to its board of directors, adding leadership from the automotive, aerospace, marketing and defense sectors.

The organization announced the additions this week, saying the new board members will help strengthen efforts to support international trade and economic development across North Alabama and the Tennessee Valley.

The new members include David Finch, vice president of manufacturing enrichment at Mazda Toyota Manufacturing; Nicole Heumphreus, vice president of international cooperation at Sigmatech Inc.; Mike Soragnese, principal at C3 Labs; and Jessyka Verge, director of global trade compliance at EOS Defense Systems USA Inc..

NAITA is a nonprofit, business-driven organization that focuses on promoting international trade in the region. The group provides advocacy, training and networking opportunities aimed at helping local companies expand into global markets and navigate trade regulations.

Founded in 1983, NAITA serves as a resource for businesses seeking to grow internationally, offering educational programming and connections across industries tied to North Alabama’s global economy, particularly in defense, aerospace and advanced manufacturing.

Officials said the addition of the new board members reflects the region’s diverse economic base and growing role in international commerce.