EDMONTON -- Long-time PC volunteer Jim McCormick is the first candidate to throw his name in the hat for the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta presidency.

Announcing his intentions Friday, McCormick -- who has held several senior positions at the PCAA -- hopes to bring his grassroots approach to the association during an "exciting" time in provincial politics.

"I didn't start by seeking out the office by any stretch of the imagination," McCormick said when reached at his home in Calgary on Saturday.

"But I believe I represent those grassroots - the proud Albertans who care about their family's future," McCormick said.

The 58-year-old has a long history of leading successful ventures in Alberta's oil and gas sector, he said. The University of Calgary Bachelor of Commerce graduate has most recently served as vice-president of the PCAA's Calgary office.

McCormick said he hopes to continue the modernization of the association during a "key time" in the PC party's history as it prepares for a constitutional review to be presented this fall.

McCormick said he's worked closely with current president Bill Smith, who is stepping down from the position when his term ends this fall.

The PCAA delegates will elect a new president in November during the party's Annual General Meeting in Calgary.