The Manitowoc Company announces upcoming change in its Board of Directors
The Manitowoc Company, Inc. has announced that board member John C. Pfeifer has chosen not to stand for reelection to the Company’s Board of Directors; therefore, his term will end at the May 7, 2024, annual meeting of shareholders. First appointed to the Manitowoc board in 2016, as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Oshkosh Corporation Mr. Pfeifer brought expert and deep operational experience and advice from the machinery industry. He was instrumental in shaping Manitowoc’s strategy for growth in envisioning Manitowoc’s strategy shift from a solely product-focused company to being more service-oriented. “John brought sage and invaluable advice that was instrumental in steering the successful Manitowoc that it is today. Over the last seven years, he contributed his expertise in operations, finance, acquisition strategies, and a deep understanding of the construction equipment business, for which we are grateful,” commented Kenneth W. Krueger, Chairman of The Manitowoc Company, Inc.
Andy Recard joins KPI Solutions as VP of Sales
Brings 20+ years’ experience working with clients to assess, design, and deploy world-class automation and robotic solutions that boost operational productivity and enable growth KPI Solutions (KPI) has announced that Andy Recard has joined the company as Vice President of sales. In this role, Andy will provide strategic leadership and work directly with clients to drive successful distribution solutions using innovative engineered designs, intelligent software, and best-of-breed technologies. “I’m happy to join the KPI Solutions sales team at this exciting time in the warehouse automation industry,“ said Andy. “KPI is in a unique position to combine operational expertise with labor-saving technologies to deliver a customized, total solution for our clients that boosts productivity while building resilience and agility.” “Andy’s experience and approach will strengthen our capabilities as we continue to design and deliver solutions that blend high-performing automation technologies and drive value for our clients,” said Roger Counihan, Senior Vice President of Sales. “His proven track record of partnering with clients to drive successful business transformations, coupled with his strategic leadership, is vital as KPI Solutions escalates to the next level.” Andy joins KPI Solutions from The Numina Group where he served as COO/CFO. Prior experience includes executive management at TZA, a provider of labor management systems, as well as direct industry experience at Medline Industries, where he served as Senior Director of operations Excellence. He holds a Bachelor, of Architectural Engineering degree from the Milwaukee School of Engineering and resides in the Chicago area.
TerraSource Global CEO, Kevin Hambrice, elected to Board of Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA)
TerraSource Global has announced the election of CEO Kevin Hambrice to the Board of Directors of the Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA) for a three-year tenure. He was elected at the organization’s Annual Meeting held in Orlando, FL, March 1-5, 2024. Kevin Hambrice, CEO at TerraSource Global, said, “CEMA is the voice of the conveyor industry, representing manufacturers, integrators, and designers of conveyor equipment. I am honored to join their Board of Directors to promote the growth of our industry and the advancement of material handling technology through a common commitment to standardization and safety.” Founded in 1933, CEMA is a trade association serving manufacturers and designers of conveyor equipment worldwide. Headquartered in Florida, the association consists of 140 companies that represent the leading designers, manufacturers, and installers of conveyors, conveyor components, and material handling systems. Member companies work together to create voluntary standards, safety, manufacture, and applications to promote growth in the industry.
PLA announces appointment of Steve Clark to Chief Executive Officer
Leadership change reflects the company’s focus on expanding supply chain services offerings. PLA, a portfolio company of Silver Oak Services Partners, LLC, has announced the appointment of Steve Clark as Chief Executive Officer. Steve joined the PLA leadership team in 2022 when Propak, the supply chain services company he founded in 1999, was acquired by PLA. This leadership transition comes at a time of increased demand for the company’s integrated pallet and logistics service offerings. “Steve’s experience building out innovative reverse logistics, 3PL, and freight capabilities uniquely positions him to lead PLA during this exciting phase of growth,” said Wade Glisson, Partner at Silver Oak, “We look forward to leveraging his unique skill set to realize the full potential of PLA’s service offering.” Clark added, “Our focus remains on supporting the needs of our customers as they continue to grow in this rapidly evolving market, and I’m honored to lead such a talented team of industry experts into the future of the pallet and logistics space.”
Raymond West celebrates 75 years as a Raymond Dealer
Raymond West is celebrating a significant milestone marking 75 years as a Raymond Intralogistics Solutions Provider. Raymond West has grown from an office in a Beverly Hills’ kitchen and the trunk of a Studebaker into a leading provider of forklifts, warehouse automation equipment, loading dock equipment, storage solutions, conveyor equipment, and much more. Raymond West Intralogistics Solutions boasts more than 1,400 employees, $831 million in annual revenue, and 21 branches across the West Coast. “As we mark our 75th year anniversary and partnership with the Raymond Corporation, we celebrate not just a milestone in time, but a journey of innovation, dedication, and growth,” said James Wilcox, President of Raymond West. “From the humble beginnings of a one-man operation in Southern California to becoming a leading end-to-endless intralogistics solution provider in the West, our success is a testament to the hard work and commitment of every member of our team, past and present.” “We’ve come far and will continue to aspire to set the standard for our clients in that whatever they need, the problem or challenge they have in their facility with material handling, we have the solution to Store, Move, and Optimize their operations,” added Wilcox. The company’s relationship with the Raymond Corporation began on March 15, 1949, when the W.T. Billard Company became a Raymond dealer. This partnership was further solidified in 1950 when Raymond introduced the narrow-aisle forklift, leading Billard to focus exclusively on Raymond products. Over the years, the company expanded throughout the region, opening branches in San Diego, Las Vegas, and Ontario. In 2002, the Raymond Corporation purchased W.T. Billard, and the company was rebranded as Raymond Handling Solutions. Under the leadership of James Wilcox, who became president in 2010, the company acquired Handling Systems Inc. in 2014 and Raymond Handling Concepts Corporation in 2018. This significantly expanded their sales and service footprint and gave them a presence in eight states, opening opportunities to store move and optimize your operations. In 2021, the three companies combined and rebranded as Raymond West Intralogistics Solutions. As Raymond West Intralogistics Solutions looks to the future, the company remains committed to providing the highest quality products and services to its clients, continuing the legacy that began 75 years ago.
AIT Worldwide Logistics promotes three leaders to new executive roles
Ben Naro, Bill Fallon and Mike Tegtmeyer will guide growing sales, strategic accounts and infrastructure teams AIT Worldwide Logistics has announced promotions for three executive team members. Ben Naro and Bill Fallon have been named chief sales officer and chief commercial officer, respectively. They are the seventh and eighth members of the company’s C-level team. Meanwhile, Mike Tegtmeyer has been promoted to the role of executive vice president, of global infrastructure and security. Naro and Fallon report to President and Chief Operating Officer, Keith Tholan. Tegtmeyer reports to Chief Information Officer, Ray Fennelly. “Ben, Bill, and Mike have made outstanding, unique contributions to the company’s growth,” said AIT Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Vaughn Moore. “I feel incredibly grateful and confident knowing that our sales, strategic accounts, and infrastructure teams are guided by the leadership of these three professionals whose accomplishments have raised the bar for high performance.” Chief Sales Officer, Ben Naro As AIT’s Chief Sales Officer, Naro is responsible for managing the global territory and field sales team. He is also tasked with aligning the sales organization to AIT’s overall global strategy while collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure strategic goals and initiatives are fulfilled. Finally, Ben will work diligently to drive growth through team building that connects and coordinates sales strategies amongst the AIT network’s primary geographic regions. “More than two decades ago, Ben came to AIT with just three years of freight forwarding sales experience,” Tholan said. “Since then, he has continually earned career advancement opportunities by performing in just about every sales role imaginable. He is a champion for AIT’s sales strategy, working diligently to upgrade processes and build high-performing teams of sales professionals across the network.” Chief Commercial Officer, Bill Fallon In his new role, Fallon sets the strategy and manages the set-up for a diverse array of vertical markets in AIT’s strategic account program. He also supports the entire organization by establishing solutions for broader strategic opportunities requiring a highly specialized, customized approach and he will focus on extending these niche, high-touch solutions to new markets in the AIT network. “Bill has more than 41 years of transportation experience, including 10 years with AIT, spanning from his early days in operations to becoming one of the best solutions design professionals in the forwarding industry,” Tholan said. “He reinvented himself early on at AIT and soon became the company’s number one sales professional and he has worked hard to assemble a team of highly diversified experts in the strategic account program.” Executive Vice President, Global Infrastructure and Security, Mike Tegtmeyer In his new role, Tegtmeyer continues leading the organization towards a next-gen level of quality in the worldwide management of AIT’s technology infrastructure and hardware platforms. With a priority emphasis on the networks in Asia and Europe, he is supporting the company’s path to an enhanced and expanded global infrastructure strategy. He will also maintain his focus on process improvements for the business, especially the expansion of AITConnect, a ticketing system that his team successfully rolled out for AIT’s compliance, human resources and IT help desk groups. “Over the course of his five years with AIT, Mike has deeply matured the company’s infrastructure strategy by leading the deployment of a modern, high-quality cloud-based environment,” Fennelly said. “On behalf of the entire organization, I’d like to acknowledge how much we appreciate his intellect, leadership and personal expression of AIT’s core values.”
ORBIS enters into agreement for manufacturing plant in Texas
ORBIS® Corporation has announced it is entering into a lease-to-own agreement for manufacturing space in Greenville, Texas, with EPM Partners of New York. ORBIS Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of 175-year-old Menasha Corporation, based in Neenah, Wis. The agreement includes 420,000 square feet of manufacturing space that will be used to produce reusable pallets, totes, and bulk containers. Improvements and infrastructure will be required to prepare the space for ORBIS’ manufacturing activities. ORBIS will also enter a lease agreement with EPM Partners for 240,000 square feet of warehousing space in the same building. “We are excited to see this investment come to life and support our customers’ growth,” stated Norm Kukuk, president of ORBIS Corporation. “This plant enables ORBIS to expand its geographic footprint and increase production capacity to serve our customers with industry-leading solutions while making an impact in the community.” ORBIS expects to add more than 190 employees within two years of the lease commencement in order to support operations at the new plant. “ORBIS is bringing great new manufacturing jobs to Hunt County and we are very excited to partner with this world class leader for the long term,” states Hunt County Judge, Bobby Stovall. This plant is projected to begin some operations by the end of 2024. “We are so pleased to join the Greenville business community, where many investments have been made to create a strong business climate,” states Lynn Hediger, vice president of product management at ORBIS. This plant is located about fifty miles northeast of Dallas. According to Jerry Ransom, City of Greenville, Tex. Mayor, “We are excited to expand our business community with this world-class manufacturer who is focused on providing sustainable packaging solutions for the supply chain.” As a steward of sustainability, ORBIS is committed to driving the circular economy and a better world for future generations through reuse with environmentally friendly designed products, end-of-life recycling, material innovations and sustainable operations.
Miner Limited acquires Dependable Dock & Door
Acquisition Expands Miner’s Service Presence Across Central North Carolina Miner Ltd., the dock and door division of OnPoint Group, has announced the acquisition of Dependable Dock and Door, Central North Carolina’s leading high-speed door and loading dock specialists. Since 2003, Dependable Dock and Door has provided exceptional service and support to an impressive list of blue-chip customers throughout Central North Carolina, including Winston-Salem and Greensboro. Adding Dependable Dock and Door to Miner’s nationwide network of professionals further supports the company’s mission to be North America’s industry-leading facility expert in docks and doors. “This further expansion in the North Carolina and greater Southeast region reflects our commitment to building a nationwide service network to best serve customers from coast to coast. We’ve been thoroughly impressed with the team at Dependable Dock and Door and their reputation for quickly delivering exceptional service to their customers, and we are excited to welcome them to the Miner team,” said Miner President, Dave Wright. Following an extensive tenure as a technician and installer in commercial and residential sectors, Mark Harper started Dependable Dock and Door 21 years ago. He is a dock and door industry veteran and board member of the Institute of Door Dealer Education and Accreditation. Miner looks forward to implementing Mark’s expertise, further strengthening our capabilities in the Southeast United States. “Miner shares our commitment to providing exceptional service to our North Carolina neighbors, and we’re excited to take this opportunity to become part of their team,” said Mark Harper, owner of Dependable Dock and Door. “We’ve spent many years building our reputation and trust with customers as experts in creating systems that operate efficiently and safely year-round, and we’re grateful to expand our footprint further as we join the nationwide leader in our field.” The Dependable Dock and Door team has experienced impressive growth, credited in large part to their unwavering commitment to outstanding sales and service. They are the preferred dealer for Door Engineering and are the top choice in their region for the sale, installation, and service of commercial doors and dock equipment. Their service mindset and sense of urgency align with Miner’s mission to keep customers’ supply chains safe and operational.
Toyota Material Handling North America will establish an advanced energy storage solutions research and development facility
Toyota Material Handling North America (TMHNA), comprised of two main companies, Toyota Material Handling and The Raymond Corporation, will establish an advanced energy storage solutions development, prototyping, and test center in Henrietta, New York. The forward-thinking research and development center, located at 1565 Jefferson Road, will see TMHNA collaborate with Rochester area energy storage resources to further support its own and Toyota Industries’ advanced energy solutions technology efforts, including lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells. As a result, TMHNA has committed to creating up to 40 new jobs. The company expects to begin preparational activities at the site immediately and be operational at the testing center in the spring. Currently, TMHNA employs 2,560 workers statewide. Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Governor Hochul and ESD remain laser-focused on expanding New York State’s green economy by supporting the creation of 21st century research and development and manufacturing jobs. Toyota Material Handling North America’s continued commitment to driving alternative energy applications for the lift truck industry is truly commendable, and we are thrilled that they are moving full speed ahead with all the opportunities that the state and Finger Lakes region have to offer.” TMHNA is a trusted source of quality and reliable products and is committed to being a total material handling solutions provider from forklifts to energy solutions to automation technology. Toyota Material Handling and The Raymond Corporation have a combined 150 years in the industry, providing total solutions, including the latest research and advancements in alternative energy and forklift battery technology, being the first U.S. manufacturer to establish UL certification for an integrated lithium-ion battery and forklift solution. President and CEO of Toyota Material Handling North America and Senior Executive Officer at Toyota Industries Group Brett Wood said, “We look forward to working alongside ESD to establish an energy storage and fuel cell development and testing center in Henrietta, New York. We are honored to contribute to the growth of this community while advancing innovation in sustainable technology. This initiative signifies our commitment to excellence and underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship. Through this venture, we aim to create new jobs, empower individuals and drive progress toward a better and brighter future.” ESD is assisting the company with the project by providing up to $1.5 million through the performance-based Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit program. County of Monroe Industrial Development Agency and Greater Rochester Enterprise also provided support for the venture. The total project cost has been placed at a little more than $2 million. The company had considered locating its new, state-of-the-art R & D facility elsewhere, but selected the Finger Lakes region due to its world-renowned reputation for available top-notch talent and its innovative technology base. State Senator Jeremy Cooney, said, “With Toyota Material Handling North America’s new facility, cutting edge energy innovations will be happening in Henrietta. Our region’s workforce talent continues to attract businesses to Monroe County, and I am looking forward to seeing the impact this project will have for our workers and our community’s continued economic growth.” State Assembly member Harry Bronson, said, “Rochester’s connection to the auto industry runs deep and Toyota Material Handling North America is continuing this tradition in our region and connecting to our new status as a green energy leader and tech hub. This investment is critical to expanding our workforce in the advanced manufacturing and technology sectors, and ensuring good jobs are made available to hardworking people throughout our area. Thank you ESD and Governor Hochul for your work to bring this new industry to Henrietta.” Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, said, “Toyota Material Handling North America’s decision to establish an advanced energy storage solutions research and development facility in the Town of Henrietta is a pioneering leap into the future of our green economy. I applaud TMHNA for their vision and leadership and for recognizing Monroe County’s strength as a hub for high-tech innovation. We’re grateful to Empire State Development and Gov. Kathy Hochul for their commitment to our economy, job creation, and advancing sustainability in our region.” Henrietta Town Supervisor Stephen Schultz, said, “The Town of Henrietta is excited that Toyota will have a presence in town working on innovative technologies regarding sustainable energy efforts. Henrietta has made a significant push for sustainable energy, including upgrading all of its streetlights to energy-efficient LED lamps, a project that is currently underway. Henrietta also is home to RIT and its Battery Prototyping Center, which also works in close collaboration with Empire State Development. Between Toyota, RIT, and energy research companies, Henrietta and Monroe County are becoming hubs for leading the way to a cleaner energy future.” Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO and Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chair Bob Duffy, said, “As a storied company with roots in Upstate New York, Toyota Material Handling North America’s commitment to growth in Greater Rochester underscores the vitality of our region, including an exceptional talent pool and innovative technology ecosystem. Congratulations to president and CEO Brett Wood and his team, and we look forward to collaborating with Toyota Material Handling and The Raymond Corporation to unlock even more opportunities for growth.” Matt Hurlbutt, President and CEO, Greater Rochester Enterprise, said, “As a leader in the energy innovation sector, the Greater Rochester, NY region is the perfect location for Toyota Material Handling North America to establish an energy storage and fuel cell development center. GRE helped connect TMHNA leaders to economic development partners and the battery and energy storage expertise and integrated ecosystem available in the Greater Rochester, NY region to support the company’s growth plans.”
Daubert Cromwell announces leadership changes at Daubert Mexico
Daubert Cromwell, a provider of anti-corrosion packaging for industry, has named Rodrigo Martinez to succeed retiring Luis Jacome as Daubert Mexico Country Manager. Martinez has been the Mexico Regional Sales Manager for nearly seven years, working closely with Jacome at the subsidiary headquarters in Aguascalientes, Mexico. With this promotion, he takes on additional leadership for technical sales, customer service, marketing, and all operations in Mexico. In addition to recognition as a corrosion prevention expert for metalworking industries, Martinez has a broad background in manufacturing and project engineering. He holds a bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering and operation management from Universidad Panamericana in Aguascalientes. He studied SMT Manufacturing at George Brown College in Toronto. He is a certified auditor for ISO9001, ISO 14001, and APQP. During years as a Supplier Quality Engineer for a major OEM, he gained insight into corrosion problems of automotive markets and has since applied that knowledge to help Daubert Mexico customers reduce their costs of corrosion by adopting his recommended solutions. As Daubert Mexico Country Manager, Martinez will work closely with the company’s sales and technical teams in the US, Europe, Brazil, and China to coordinate packaging and process improvements that protect metal surfaces during all stages of production, storage and export
Charles Thompson has been named a winner in the Supply & Demand Chain Executive 2024 Pros to Know award.
This recognition is in the ‘Rising Stars’ category and makes Charles, age 38 from Denver, Colorado, one of only 25 up-and-coming industry achievers listed globally. The Pros to Know award recognizes outstanding executives whose accomplishments offer a roadmap for other leaders looking to leverage the supply chain for competitive advantage. Charles is a highly successful project manager thanks to both his strong technical knowledge and direct experience. Coming from a warehouse background, his industry knowledge is second to none and his primary focus has long been on WMS implementations, from an end-user and service-provider perspective. Consequently, he is adept in recognizing and defining key industry practices for different warehouse environments, which is key in providing an elevated level of service and solution delivery to customers. Smitha Raphael, Chief Product & Delivery Officer of Synergy Logistics, said: “This accolade is very much deserved. Charles is a key player in Synergy’s new agile implementation solutions, which resolve the need for rapid deployment in larger, more complex enterprise integrations. He skillfully adapts and tailors his knowledge and experience on each project he is involved with, to not only solve customer challenges but to also secure improvements and margin gains across their operations.” As the continued growth of automation needs increases the demand for adaptability in the supply chain and customer operations, Charles is continually improving his skillset with additional exposure to change management methodologies. In the last 12 months, Charles has also been the lead project manager in Synergy’s maiden implementation of SnapControl, a game-changing and award-winning multi-agent orchestration (MAO) solution that orchestrates all automation devices and robotic systems within warehouses from one centralized and convenient platform. The project, with a rapidly expanding US-based e-tailer, resulted in a sixfold increase in productivity thanks to SnapControl determining the quality of manual versus automated pick tasks and identifying the manual picks required in areas serviced by AMRs. This has translated into labor savings of over half a million dollars and the company now saves over $40,000 per week, with an impressive investment payback period of just 23 weeks.
PS Logistics Acquires Yordy Transport
PS Logistics, a transportation and logistics company in the United States, has announced that its subsidiary Diamond State Trucking & Logistics (“Diamond State”) has acquired Yordy Transport, a trucking company that specializes in flatbed shipping. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Headquartered in Morton, Illinois, Yordy Transport was founded in 2018 by Avery Yordy and primarily hauls railroad, steel, lumber, and building materials freight across the central and southeastern United States. Yordy Transport’s freight mix and geographic coverage are complementary to the Diamond States’ and are expected to provide immediate opportunities to realize operational synergies. Yordy Transport will now operate under the Diamond State name. “We are excited to welcome Yordy Transport’s flatbed drivers and employees to the PS Logistics family,” said Scott Smith, chief executive officer and co-founder of PS Logistics. “This acquisition aligns nicely with our desire to partner with founder- or family-owned trucking companies that put their drivers first while also providing quality service to their customers, and PS Logistics is looking forward to the growth opportunities that will result from this acquisition.” Avery Yordy, founder and owner of Yordy Transport, said, “Diamond State will be a great partner for my business. Throughout the process of working with them, it became evident that they are committed to the drivers’ success, and I’m excited that Yordy Transport will now be a part of a larger organization that will provide greater freight choices to Yordy’s drivers and operational expertise to the business.” The transaction continues PS Logistics’ acquisition strategy of partnering with families and quality owners within the transportation and logistics industry. Since 2016, PS Logistics has successfully acquired 26 trucking operations and five non-asset logistics operations across the United States.
Fairchild Equipment acquires Yale® lift truck dealer territories in Wisconsin and Illinois
Fairchild Equipment, a provider of material handling solutions in the Midwest, has announced its expanded dealer footprint as the official Yale Lift Truck Technologies dealer across eleven key counties in Wisconsin and Illinois. This strategic move comes as a testament to Fairchild Equipment’s unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding customer service, unparalleled parts availability, swift responsiveness, and exemplary overall quality in the material handling industry. The counties now served by Fairchild Equipment include Crawford, Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, Green, and Rock in Wisconsin, along with Stephenson, Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, and Lee in Illinois. “Fairchild Equipment has earned a storied reputation for putting the needs and satisfaction of our customers at the forefront of our operations since my father founded the company in 1985,” said Chad Fairchild, Chief Executive Officer of Fairchild Equipment. “We are excited to bring our expertise and passion for creating Customers for Life to the users of Yale forklifts in these new areas. Our team of experts takes pride in ensuring that every customer receives the solutions they need for optimized operations.” By incorporating the Yale® brand in these new counties into its portfolio, Fairchild Equipment will offer an even more comprehensive selection of material handling equipment. Yale is one of the primary brands offered by Hyster-Yale Group, a globally integrated manufacturer of application-tailored lift trucks and technology solutions, engineered to meet customer-specific needs. “As part of our customer-centric approach, we at Fairchild Equipment are proud to offer an expansive rental fleet ready to cater to businesses in need of temporary material handling equipment,” noted Tim Rothe, Vice President of Operations at Fairchild Equipment. “Furthermore, our service guarantee promises a two-hour response time for all service calls, ensuring minimal downtime and the continued productivity of our customer’s operations.” As a testament to Fairchild Equipment’s outstanding organization, Yale Lift Truck Technologies has honored them as a Dealer of Excellence 28 times. This annual award celebrates Yale dealers who have exhibited focused leadership and continued to drive their customers to the highest level of performance in all functional areas of materials handling. In an ongoing effort to maintain exceptional response times and customer satisfaction, Fairchild Equipment is pleased to announce an increase in the number of service technicians operating in these newly acquired regions. To support this expansion, Fairchild is actively hiring to fill these crucial positions, seeking out skilled individuals who align with our dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction. With a growing team of experts, customers can expect the high standard of support that is a hallmark of the Fairchild Equipment experience.
Ignition Gold Certified Integrator Patti Engineering announces further credentials, elevating expertise in industrial control solutions
Ignition Gold Certified Integrator Patti Engineering’s Akash Agarwal has earned the Ignition Core Certification by Inductive Automation, providing certified expertise in SCADA, MES, and IIoT applications. Patti Engineering, Inc., an Ignition Gold Certified Integrator and control system integration company with offices in Michigan, Texas, and Indiana, has announced that Controls Engineer Akash Agarwal achieved Ignition Core Certification by Inductive Automation, joining six additional team members holding specialized certifications on the Ignition platform. Agarwal has completed Core Certification competency exams for Inductive Automation’s Ignition, a powerful web-based industrial software platform for SCADA, MES, and IIoT applications. Additional employees certified for Ignition at Patti Engineering are Jeffrey Watts, who recently achieved Gold Certification, along with Abigail Engle, Cassandra Boman, Daniel Ragozzino, John Shipley, PE, CAP, and Scott Grunwald, all having attained Core Certifications. These certifications demonstrate advanced proficiency in the design, development, and implementation of tailored control solutions that optimize efficiency, productivity, and operational visibility using Ignition. “As a Gold-level partner in our Integrator Program, Patti Engineering has an advanced capability with Ignition,” said Chris Fischer, Integrator Program Manager at Inductive Automation. “The solutions that companies like Patti Engineering create are among the best in the industry because their knowledge and experience with Ignition enables them to create innovative solutions for clients. Patti Engineering’s Ignition certifications provide them with a competitive advantage in the integration industry, giving clients confidence in the robustness of their tailored solutions.” As an Ignition Gold Certified Integrator, Patti Engineering specializes in control system integration and digitalization services in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. The company’s demonstrated expertise ensures the smooth implementation of industrial automation software and hardware in a wide range of areas such as HMI, PLC, edge computing, data analytics, cybersecurity, asset management, and remote monitoring. The recent achievement of Ignition Core Certification by Agarwal, along with several other team members, illustrates Patti Engineering’s commitment to providing specialized expertise to meet the diverse needs of manufacturing and industrial clients. “We commend our engineers for helping Patti Engineering achieve and maintain Ignition Gold Certified Integrator status,” remarked Patti Engineering CEO Sam Hoff. “Our team’s dedication to training and best practices is pivotal in maintaining our ability to deliver the quality solutions our clients need in the industries we serve.”
Yale integrated lithium-ion forklift beats out 10 other nominees for top spot in product of the year awards
Readers of two material handling publications vote the ERP-VTL/VFL series the top lift truck of 2023 Yale Lift Truck Technologies announces the ERP-VTL/VFL integrated lithium-ion forklift series is the winner of the Readers’ Choice Product of the Year award determined by readers of Material Handling Product News and MaterialHandling247.com. The series, which includes three- and four-wheel models, was voted as the top product in the lift trucks and accessories category. Both the ERP040VTL, a three-wheel model, and the ERP040VFL, a four-wheel model, buck the traditional approach in which a battery box replacement converts counterbalanced lift trucks from lead-acid to lithium-ion battery power. Instead, the trucks are designed from the ground up around a space-saving lithium-ion battery pack. “Today’s warehouses need to capitalize on every possible opportunity to improve efficiency,” said Brad Long, Brand Manager, Yale Lift Truck Technologies. “Not only do these award-winning lift trucks provide a simpler pathway to the benefits of lithium-ion power relative to an aftermarket retrofit, but the strategic design around the fully integrated battery pack also delivers key productivity benefits, including improved operator ergonomics and stability.” An open-space design increases operator freedom to position feet and makes for easy entry and exit, maximizing comfort and convenience to help propel productivity, while a repositioned center of gravity enhances drive quality and improves truck handling in corners for greater operator confidence and performance. The lithium-ion power also supports productivity through fast charging and zero battery maintenance, allowing operators to focus more of their time on moving loads. The lift trucks produce zero tailpipe emissions and no gassing in battery charging or maintenance processes and offer lower energy costs compared to those powered by fossil fuels and lead-acid batteries. This award is the second for the ERP-VTL, which was previously named a winner of the GOOD DESIGN Award.
Diversified Fall Protection names industry Veteran Travis Nelson as New CEO
Diversified Fall Protection (DFP), a fall protection integrator in the U.S. for regulatory-driven systems and services, has announced the appointment of Travis Nelson, PE, CSP as the company’s new CEO. Nelson is a distinguished leader and influencer in the fall protection industry and brings over 20 years of industry experience to the position. “We are truly honored to have someone of Travis’ reputation and expertise at the helm of our company,” said William Huber, chairman of the DFP Board and partner with North Branch Capital, which invested in DFP in May of 2019. “His industry knowledge, visionary leadership, and ability to unite teams toward a shared vision are precisely what DFP needs to solidify its position as an industry leader.” Nelson’s journey with DFP began in 2019, initially as Vice President of Engineering and later as Vice President of Strategy. His tenure at DFP commenced after the acquisition of PEAK Fall Protection, where Nelson served as managing partner and president for nearly 12 years. “I am thrilled about the opportunities that this appointment presents,” said Nelson. “DFP is truly exceptional, primed for remarkable growth and success. With a team of exceptionally dedicated and talented individuals, possessing the requisite expertise and commitment, we are poised to elevate our service standards and foster innovation. Our industry is not just compelling; it’s critical because we ensure that workers return home safely every evening.” Established in 1994, DFP currently employs over 300 professionals across six U.S. locations. The company has experienced exponential growth, quadrupling in size since 2019, propelled in part by four strategic acquisitions between late 2019 and 2021 (PEAK Fall Protection, Fall Protection Services (FPS), Rooftop Anchor, and Versatile Systems, Inc.). Since 2021, DFP has achieved a remarkable 30% growth rate. DFP specializes in partnering with strategic clients as their trusted advisor, assessing fall protection concerns within their portfolio, identifying risks, and delivering programmatic recommendations. DFP services encompass the implementation of engineered solutions, alongside ongoing inspection and certification, ensuring compliance and safety.
Movu Robotics and Equipment Depot, Inc. forge alliance to upgrade U.S. Warehouses with seamless plug-and-play solutions
Movu Robotics, a global designing, manufacturing, and implementing advanced storage solutions and automated warehouse systems, has announced a strategic partnership with EQSolutions, the systems integration division of Equipment Depot, America’s largest independently operated material handling and equipment rental source. This partnership between Movu Robotics and EQSolutions marks a significant step forward in leveraging advanced technology to address the evolving needs and challenges businesses face in logistics and warehousing. Combining Movu’s accessible robotic solutions for easier automation and EQSolutions’ expertise in integration, the collaboration aims to deliver comprehensive, tailored solutions and professional services that enhance efficiency, productivity, and sustainability for clients across the U.S. EQSolutions specializes in engineering transformative warehouse and automation solutions for manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution facilities, providing a one-source solution to solving a variety of industry challenges. “This collaboration perfectly marries Equipment Depot’s long-standing reputation for providing industry-leading material handling equipment with Movu’s innovative ‘plug and play’ automation technologies,” says Marc Terwilliger, VP of EQSolutions. “Together, we are setting new standards in warehouse efficiency by providing a competitive edge to businesses looking to leverage integrated warehouse solutions and modern innovation.” Movu Robotics shares the excitement of this partnership. “At Movu Robotics, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of robotics technology to solve real-world challenges. Our solutions are designed to make warehouse automation and robotics not only more accessible but also more scalable. Teaming up with EQSolutions allows us to amplify our impact and deliver accessible plug-and-play robotics solutions with an expert end-to-end full-service integration. By harnessing both organizations’ collective expertise, resources, and capabilities, the partnership aims to drive progress and unlock new opportunities in logistics and warehousing with the power of easier automation.” said Stefan Pieters, CEO of Movu.
Yale account executive honored as an emerging leader in food and beverage supply chain
Forklift manufacturer’s director of major accounts recognized for industry expertise and prioritization of customer solutions Yale Lift Truck Technologies announced that Brendan McCann, Director of Major Accounts for Food Processing and Distribution, has been named a Rock Star of the Supply Chain by Food Logistics magazine. McCann is a winner in the rising stars category, which honors exceptional professionals under the age of 40. McCann leads a team responsible for providing lift truck solutions to 165 of the largest food processing, distribution and agriculture operations in North America, including more than 14,600 logistics locations. McCann firmly embodies the brand’s customer-driven philosophy by immersing himself in the challenges his customers face. He gathers insight and produces tailored recommendations, from plans targeting near-term productivity gains to holistic, long-term roadmaps that guide customers through the adoption of advanced lift truck technologies like operator assist systems and automation as their business evolves. In one instance, McCann helped a large customer design a new distribution center. The customer’s initial plans called for a footprint of more than 1 million square feet and more than 100 forklifts. By understanding the customer’s throughput and growth goals, McCann determined an alternative approach, with a footprint under 500,000 square feet and fewer than 40 forklifts, could save the customer millions in building costs while accomplishing their productivity goals with less equipment and space. Before joining the team at Yale, McCann was a Senior Account Manager for Briggs Equipment, a Yale® dealer, where he was named Salesman of the Year in 2017. During his tenure with the company, he was based in Gainesville, Georgia, “the poultry capital of the United States.” There, McCann built a deep foundational understanding of agriculture, food and beverage operations that he leverages every day and very intentionally shares with members of his team. “Anyone can put a lift truck in a building,” says McCann. “At Yale, it’s really about identifying or developing the right solutions to make a meaningful difference. Within my team, my ultimate goal is to instill in others my passion for helping customers overcome challenges and optimize their supply chain operations, and I’m honored that Food Logistics recognized the value in that approach.”
AutoScheduler Keith Moore named a 2024 Pros to Know
Named the next big winner in the Supply Chain Industry; Clean sweep of both categories – Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Management System (WMS) accelerator, announces that CEO Keith Moore is one of the winners of this year’s Pros to Know award, which recognizes outstanding executives whose accomplishments offer a roadmap for other leaders looking to leverage supply chain for competitive advantage. This recognition is for the Rising Stars Category. “As one of twenty-five Rising Stars Category winners in the Pros to Know Awards, I am pleased to be chosen among hundreds nominated for making outstanding contributions to the supply chain space. I am an evangelist for using artificial intelligence and machine learning within warehouse solutions to help improve visibility, worker productivity, sustainability, and customer service. Clients benefit from greater customer service, labor reduction, and better ability to meet demand.” ~Keith Moore, Chief Executive Officer, AutoScheduler.AI “Many of today’s supply chain pros are more than just leaders within their space; they’re innovators, decision-makers, pioneers of change and growth. They’ve spent the last year (and more) creating safer, more efficient supply chains. New this year, we broke the award down into four distinct categories: Top Warehousing Stars; Top Procurement Stars; Rising Stars; and Lifetime Achievement. These winners continue to go above and beyond to overcome challenges, advance supply chain management and make the impossible, possible.” ~Marina Mayer, Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive Keith Moore is CEO of AutoScheduler.AI, where he provides leadership and management, ensuring employee engagement, innovative product design and development, and top customer service while maximizing profitability. He oversees company operations, communicates between board members and other company executives, and makes critical decisions that impact the company’s brand identity and financial health. He leverages his knowledge of the warehousing industry and deep technology competencies to drive value in AutoScheduler’s offerings and to take the business to the next level.
Federal HazMat and Emergency Management Expert joins safety non-profit
The Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure (Aii) has named Timothy P. Butters to its Board of Directors. Butters, a senior executive in the Administration of Barrack Obama, served as the Acting Administrator and Deputy Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), where he was instrumental in safely and securely overseeing all hazardous materials shipped via air, land, rail, sea, and pipeline. “I am honored to be joining the Aii Board of Directors, and I look forward to leveraging my expertise as we address pressing issues,” said new Aii Board Member Timothy P. Butters. Following PHMSA, Butters also served at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where he served as a senior advisor in FAA’s Office of Airports and provided public safety expertise in several key program areas including Unmanned Aircraft, Aviation Event Emergency Planning, and Commercial Space Transportation. Before his federal service, Butters was a professional firefighter and EMT in Fairfax City, Virginia, retiring as an Assistant Fire Chief. As a first responder, Butters was a member of the National Capital Region Type III Incident Management Team (IMT). He has been deployed to major disaster sites to support local incident management operations, including Hurricanes Katrina (MS) and Ike (TX), wildfires, presidential inauguration support, and other large events. Butters has also held senior leadership positions with the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the Chemical Transportation Emergency Center (CHEMTREC), and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. “We are fortunate to have Tim join the Board,” said Aii Chairman and Founder Brigham McCown. “Tim’s expertise as a first responder and regulator is a huge asset to our mission.” Celebrating a decade of non-partisan public policy service, the Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure seeks to foster innovative solutions to significant infrastructure and public policy challenges.