Paul Schmidt

Paul Schmidt, a senior executive in the packaging and supply chain industry, joined the HOW Board of Directors in September 2024. Based in Philadelphia, Schmidt brings extensive experience as an "apprentice" rowing coach for several high school and university programs in the area, including Saint Joseph's Prep, Mount St. Joseph's Academy, and Saint Joseph's University.

When asked about his long-term apprenticeship, Schmidt explained, "I may never be as technically skilled as the coaches I've worked under, but I'm actually better at helping us navigate a blended approach to managing the trials both on the water and off. I need to remind myself that water time and technical application win races, but it's always a balancing act when you also want to have people who are happy to come to practice and positioned to succeed in life."

Schmidt believes he has studied the technical aspects under the best coaches in the sport, but sees his role as providing a blended outlook on how to construct a productive life while striving to win races. Together with his wife, Brenda, who graciously lends her support, they are both deeply committed to furthering our mission. "It's this intersection of 'heart and muscle' that drew me to working with HOW, and I'm excited to see what differences Brenda and I can make in the lives of others who might not otherwise see how beneficial rowing can be to one's life journey, if they have access to a little stretch of open water, put in the work, and want to win races and at life too.