William DeLap
Government Relations, Public Affairs
Ogdensburg,NY
Summary
Strategic communications and government affairs professional with 20+ years of experience across government relations, legislative affairs, public communications, media relations, journalism, and stakeholder engagement. Experienced in supporting elected officials, drafting legislation, developing executive and policy communications, and coordinating public outreach. Strong background in building relationships with government agencies, media, community stakeholders, and international business partners.
Overview
1
1
Language
1
1
Certification
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Product Specialist
DeFelsko Corporation
Ogdensburg, NY
03.2022 - Current
- Manage global distributor communications across Europe, the Middle East, and international markets.
- Provide technical consultation and translate complex product information into clear customer-focused solutions.
- Develop business opportunities through customer engagement, CRM follow-up, and relationship management.
- Represent the company at industry trade shows, generating leads and strengthening professional relationships.
- Collaborate with sales and technical teams to resolve customer issues and strengthen distributor partnerships.
Recreational Powersports Technician
Blevins Brothers, Inc.
Ogdensburg, NY
04.2021 - 12.2021
- Diagnosed and repaired recreational vehicles and marine equipment using manufacturer-approved diagnostic systems.
- Communicated technical findings to customers and coordinated with manufacturers to resolve complex issues.
- Delivered timely repairs while maintaining strong customer service.
Turf Service Technician
Cazenovia Equipment Company
Canton, NY
05.2020 - 04.2021
- Collaborated with John Deere engineers to troubleshoot and resolve complex equipment issues.
- Diagnosed mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, diesel, and HVAC systems.
- Explained technical solutions clearly while maintaining high customer satisfaction.
Legislative Aide
New York State Senate
Albany, NY
01.2018 - 02.2019
- Represented the Senator at public meetings, community events, and official functions while strengthening constituent relationships.
- Drafted legislation supporting the North Country Beer Trail initiative and prepared legislative bill memoranda.
- Responded to constituent inquiries on legislation, public policy, and government services.
- Coordinated with state agencies to resolve constituent concerns and supported legislative research.
Public Affairs Coordinator
New York State Assembly
Albany, NY
03.2015 - 12.2017
- Drafted press releases, speeches, media advisories, editorials, and executive correspondence supporting legislative initiatives.
- Built media relationships and coordinated public forums and community outreach programs.
- Developed speeches and communications for Assembly members and leadership.
- Monitored legislative developments and produced social media and visual content supporting public communications.
Communications Specialist (Contract)
General Electric
Albany, NY
10.2014 - 01.2015
- Edited web and internal communications content and developed employee newsletter articles.
- Produced photographic content and collaborated with international employees on communications for global audiences.
Reporter
Spotlight News
Schenectady, NY
10.2013 - 10.2014
- Covered local government, politics, education, and community affairs for print and digital platforms.
- Researched, wrote, and edited articles while building relationships with public officials and community leaders.
- Managed website, social media, photography, and supporting editorial content.
Interior Communications Electrician
United States Navy
08.2005 - 08.2009
- Supervised and trained seven personnel while maintaining mission-critical communication systems aboard USS Harry S. Truman.
- Maintained and repaired communication equipment valued at more than $1 million and conducted quality assurance inspections.
- Recognized for repairing a critical communication system that enabled uninterrupted flight operations.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism, History
University at Albany, State University of New York
Associate of Applied Science - Human Social Sciences
SUNY Schenectady County Community College
Certificate - Powersports Performance & Repair
SUNY Canton
Skills
- Government Relations Legislative Affairs Public Affairs Strategic Communications Public Policy Legislative Research
- Executive Communications Stakeholder Engagement Constituent Relations Bill Drafting Policy Analysis
- Media Relations Public Relations Speech Writing Community Outreach Content Development
- Relationship Management Public Speaking
Certification
Professional Membership: AMPP
Certifications & Languages
Language: English
Timeline
Product Specialist
DeFelsko Corporation
03.2022 - Current
Recreational Powersports Technician
Blevins Brothers, Inc.
04.2021 - 12.2021
Turf Service Technician
Cazenovia Equipment Company
05.2020 - 04.2021
Legislative Aide
New York State Senate
01.2018 - 02.2019
Public Affairs Coordinator
New York State Assembly
03.2015 - 12.2017
Communications Specialist (Contract)
General Electric
10.2014 - 01.2015
Reporter
Spotlight News
10.2013 - 10.2014
Interior Communications Electrician
United States Navy
08.2005 - 08.2009
Certificate - Powersports Performance & Repair
SUNY Canton
Associate of Applied Science - Human Social Sciences
SUNY Schenectady County Community College
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism, History
University at Albany, State University of New York