Adams, vice president for CSX Transportation in Louisville, was responsible for Government and Community Relations in Kentucky from March 2002 to January 2004. As a commissioned officer with the U.S. Coast Guard from 1986 to 1992, Adams’ assignments included serving as a congressional liaison with the U.S. House of Representatives. He later worked as a legislative assistant for the U.S. House of Representatives from 1992 to 1995. Adams then served as assistant vice president of public affairs for American Commercial Barge Line, from 1995 to 2002.

The Public Protection Department encompasses eleven of Kentucky’s consumer protection regulatory agencies, including the Offices of Insurance and Financial Institutions, the Public Service Commission, and the Office of Housing, Buildings, and Construction.

"Jim Adams brings a wealth of experience to the cabinet with a proven record of public service,"

Wilcher said. "Jim’s corporate, congressional and service background provides the cabinet with a commissioner skilled in working with diverse groups to achieve common goals in the public interest."

"Jim’s leadership in business and government will serve the cabinet well," said Michael Hagan, retired Chief Executive Officer, American Commercial Barge Line.

Susan Bush, a geologist, will be returning to Kentucky state government, having previously served with the former Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet (NREPC) from 1980 to 1991. Bush has recently served as project manager for Third Rock Consultants, an environmental consulting group in Lexington.

As commissioner of Natural Resources Bush will head Kentucky’s forestry, mining, land conservation and energy activities. "Susan’s experience in natural resources, state management and in the private sector position her perfectly to develop solutions that promote economic growth and protect the environment," said Wilcher.

"Susan brings to this position a unique blend of experience and vision that will be invaluable as she addresses issues surrounding our Commonwealth's natural resources," said Rusty Ashcraft, manager of Environmental Affairs and Permitting for Alliance Coal LLC.

"I believe Susan will work hard to achieve a fair balance that will help move our economy forward while protecting our quality of life." said Judy Peterson, executive director of the Kentucky Waterways Alliance.

Wilcher also announced the appointment of Scott Smith, of Lexington, as the manager of regulatory affairs in the Office of the Secretary. Smith began his career in the coal mining industry. He brings more than 25 years of corporate consulting experience to the cabinet. For the past 15 years his own company, Smith Management Group, has provided environmental consulting, financial management, strategic planning and business development to entities in Kentucky and throughout North America.

"Scott will be an invaluable resource to the office as we continue the process of reorganizing three cabinets into one," said Wilcher. "He will help ensure that our regulatory process runs smoothly and effectively, and will provide technical expertise on many of the complex issues facing the cabinet."

By executive order Gov. Ernie Fletcher combined the Labor, Public Protection and Regulation Cabinets and NREPC into a single cabinet last month.

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