BSLBATT Battery joins SPE Elettronica Industriale Charger Compatibility Program
BSL Battery just announced that it has joined the Compatibility Program of SPE Industrial Electronics Charger Manufacturer in Crevalcore, Bologna, Italy, with the help of Flight Systems Industrial Products (FSIP), the exclusive SPE agent in Pennsylvania, USA. The program provides BSLBATT Battery with the tools to pursue new opportunities with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). “As part of the compatibility program for SPE charger manufacturers, BSLBATT can present its integration with SPE Elettronica Industriale in a curated network of tested and compatible batteries and charging solutions”. said Dustin Love, Executive Business Development Manager, Flight Systems Industrial Products. FSIP is excited to have developed chargers for BSL Battery, three-phase and single-phase. “We had a battery in-house for a couple of weeks to fine tune their firmware files, and I will say that these batteries are the real deal. Thank you BSL Battery – Industrial for the opportunity” added Love. How Does This Benefit You? The program Charged by SPE Elettronica Industriale is a great fit for us and we are excited to be part of this effort with SPE. We are eager to continue growing with SPE and are eager for the opportunity to provide outstanding solutions to industries that work with the SPE product line. BSLBATT will receive a “SPE Elettronica Industriale” logo for use on its products and marketing materials. This logo signifies to OEMs that BSLBATT’s battery was iteratively tested and validated by SPE’s team of engineers. It also offers BSLBATT the opportunity to target electric vehicle and industrial equipment and machine industries that SPE Elettronica Industriale currently operates in. “SPE Elettronica Industriale offers a unique way for battery and BMS partners like BSBATT Battery to generate more business by signaling a level of quality and compatibility that OEMs can rely on. Currently, there is no other resource available that offers OEMs a one-stop-shop with this level of curated solutions,” said SPE Managing Director presso Alessandro Poletti. To learn more about the BSLBATT solution offered at SPE Elettronica Industriale, visit https://www.lithiumforkliftbattery.com/charger/charged-by-spe-elettronica-industriale.html.
Brenton names Lanel Menezes as Vice President of Sales
Lanel Menezes has been named Vice President of Sales for Brenton, a role in which he will be promoting the brand’s products and services, developing strategic plans for growth, forging customer relationships, leading sales teams, and organizing and maintaining sales operations. Brenton his a global provider in designing and manufacturing integrated end-of-line systems and machines, specializing in case packing and palletizing using both robotics and other automation. Menezes brings a wealth of industry experience to Brenton. For the past 15 years, he held various technical and commercial positions with Mettler-Toledo, a leading global manufacturer of precision technology and services used across a customer’s entire value chain. “I am excited to become the next Vice President of Sales at Brenton. I am grateful to be joining an organization respected throughout the industry and cannot wait to start this new adventure working alongside an amazing team,” Menezes said. “Joining the ProMach family is an absolute privilege, honor, and a blessing. I am looking forward making a positive difference by bringing Brenton’s proven solutions to new and existing customers.” In 2019, Menezes earned an Executive MBA in International Business from the University of South Florida. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Engineering Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering from Robert Morris University. Menezes can be reached at Lanel.menezes@promachbuilt.com.
Cornerstone Equipment joins LiuGong North America Dealer Network
LiuGong North America has added Cornerstone Equipment to its dealer network. The Dry Ridge, Kentucky-based operation sells both construction equipment and material handling products. The business started in 2009 as an industrial equipment solutions provider. It serves the agriculture, outdoor power, construction and material handling equipment industries, and its three branches help to cover the tristate area of Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana. Devin Ponder, CEO, Cornerstone Equipment, has drawn upon his family’s roots and success with the business over the last 15 years. His parents, Bryan and Kathy Ponder, founded the business in 2009 after his dad worked for the region’s largest material handling dealership. He took over day-to-day operations at Cornerstone in 2020. While its roots were in forklifts, the company pivoted to its current line during the pandemic from 2020 to 2022 and expanded its operations in both Ohio and Indiana. The company is now blending its industrial equipment background with recent retail success to expand further, adding construction and material handling equipment. Ponder hailed the relationship already established with LiuGong team members during the recruitment process as Cornerstone Equipment joins the dealer network. “The vision of Cornerstone Equipment’s future and the LiuGong future in North America align perfectly,” he said. “Our team is uniquely qualified to be the market leaders in construction and material handling equipment sales, service and rental operations in the tristate area. “The broad product line offered from LiuGong covering both construction and material handling equipment fits our target customer base perfectly. The value of bringing machines with industry-leading components to market at an extraordinarily competitive price and lead time is exciting.” Andrew Ryan, President, LiuGong North America, expanded on the relationship they’ve developed and what Cornerstone Equipment can add to the dealer network. “There is a strong family history that Cornerstone Equipment has established, along with a pursuit of excellence and strong vision for what they want to achieve,” Ryan said. “It’s a great addition to our LiuGong dealer network across both construction and material handling equipment.” Jared Ward, Vice President, Material Handling, LiuGong North America, added the background they have within the material handling field will only strengthen the material handling dealer network. “The Cornerstone Equipment group has shown strong interest and dedication to serving material handling customers,” Ward said. “We look forward to growing with them in this space and we welcome their family to the LiuGong family of dealers.” Ponder closed by emphasizing the connection he has developed thus far. “The mission of LiuGong to be dealers’ preferred choice resonates with our team, and its organizational structure in North America supports that mission,” Ponder said. “Every LiuGong team member we met in Katy, Texas was truly professional; that’s something required for us to deliver the best customer experiences possible. “Lastly, LiuGong offers us the ability and opportunity to scale and expand our business on a regional level going forward and deliver excellent customer experiences for years to come.”
OTTO Lifter wins Gold Stevie® Award in 2023 International Business Awards®
OTTO Motors, a provider of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), announced that their autonomous forklift, OTTO Lifter, has been recognized as the winner of a Gold Stevie® Award in the Manufacturing Solution category in The 20th Annual International Business Awards®. OTTO Lifter, the world’s smartest autonomous forklift, was awarded for its advancement in autonomous material handling solutions, addressing the challenges of labor shortages, safety, and productivity in manufacturing and warehouse facilities worldwide. Built on OTTO Motors’ fourteen years of industry-leading robotics experience and over four million production hours, OTTO Lifter seamlessly navigates traffic and obstacles, predictably and precisely delivering materials to the right place at the right time. Stevie Award judges commended the solution for its “remarkable innovation, safety, and market performance.” OTTO Lifter was also recently named the SupplyTech Breakthrough Material Handling Solution of the Year as well. “OTTO Lifter was only introduced to the manufacturing industry last year, but it is already transforming and unlocking new material handling workflows, solving top challenges for manufacturers worldwide, and winning prestigious awards,” said Jay Judkowitz, Vice President of Product at OTTO Motors. “We are honored that our autonomous forklift was recognized for its outstanding performance with a Gold Stevie Award.” The International Business Awards are the world’s premier business awards program, recognizing high-achieving organizations and executives from around the world. With more than 3,700 nominations across organizations in over 60 countries, Stevie Award winners were determined by the average scores of more than 230 executives worldwide who participated in the judging process in June and July. “Nominations to the IBAs get better every year, and this year’s class of Stevie winners is the most impressive yet,” said Stevie Awards president Maggie Miller. “The winners have demonstrated that their organizations have set and achieved lofty goals. We congratulate them on their recognized achievements, and look forward to celebrating them on stage in Rome on 13 October.”
H&E opens new branch in Kings Mountain NC
Effective August 14, 2023, H&E Equipment Services Inc. (H&E) announces the opening of its Kings Mountain branch, its ninth rental location in the state of North Carolina and its fourth in the greater Charlotte vicinity. Since the beginning of the second quarter of 2023, H&E has opened eight new branches across the country, with two of those in the Tar Heel State. The facility is located at 612 Canterbury Road, Kings Mountain, NC 28086-9601, phone 980-341-1800. It includes a fully fenced yard area, offices, and a repair shop and carries a variety of construction and general industrial equipment. “The Charlotte metropolitan area is one of the fastest growing regions in the country, and we are bringing additional fleet and resources to serve customers there. Our existing North Charlotte, Charlotte and Statesville branches blanket the eastern and northern portions of the area, so we’ve strategically placed our new branch in Kings Mountain to reach farther west and southwest, including into upstate South Carolina,” says Branch Manager Rob Kendrick. “Our proximity to I-85 and Hwy. 74 is ideal and allows us to deliver equipment to job sites across the metro area quickly and efficiently.” The Kings Mountain branch specializes in the rental of aerial lifts, earthmoving equipment, telescopic forklifts, compaction equipment, generators, light towers, compressors, and more and represents the following manufacturers: Allmand, Atlas Copco, Bomag, Case, Club Car, Cushman, Doosan, Gehl, Generac Mobile, Genie, Hamm, Hilti, Husqvarna, JCB, JLG, John Deere, Kobelco, Kubota, LayMor, Ledwell, Lincoln Electric, Link-Belt Excavators, MEC, Miller, Multiquip, Polaris, Sany, Skyjack, SkyTrak, Sullair, Sullivan-Palatek, Tag, Towmaster, Unicarriers, Wacker Neuson, Yanmar, and others.
AIT Worldwide Logistics debuts new global headquarters in Chicago suburbs
Corporate teammates for supply chain solutions provider AIT Worldwide Logistics recently moved into a new global headquarters at 2 Pierce Place in Itasca, Illinois. Previously, AIT’s shared services teams were based out of multiple Itasca facilities, including 701 Rohlwing Rd., a single-story building and warehouse that had been shared with the company’s Chicago station since 1997. According to AIT’s Chairman and CEO, Vaughn Moore, the move was spurred by the organization’s exponential growth and emergence as a global logistics powerhouse. “After more than 40 years in business, and immense expansion to more than 110 locations across Asia, Europe and North America, we’re fortifying our roots in the Chicago area,” Moore said. “This modern, highly visible location is a true manifestation of our global brand, and it provides our corporate staff with both the space and resources they need to best support our customers and teammates around the world.” Moore added that the new location is a major investment in AIT teammates’ on-site work experience. “Working together in this state-of-the-art office space allows us to be much more collaborative, enabling faster, real-time reactions,” he said. “2 Pierce Place also provides the additional space we need to accommodate the future growth of our shared services teams.” AIT’s global headquarters occupies multiple floors of the iconic 25-story suburban tower. Standing at 395 feet, it is the second-tallest building in Illinois outside the Chicago city limits. From its modern lobby to the tenant lounge, game room and outdoor patio, 2 Pierce Place offers popular on-site amenities, including a fitness center, walking trail, a full-service deli serving breakfast and lunch, grab-and-go dining options, and on-site catering services. Team members from accounting, claims, finance, global business systems, global compliance, human resources, imaging, information technology, legal and marketing are stationed on newly remodeled high-rise floors with conveniences including a private game room, coffee bars, sit-stand workstations, and multiple conference rooms equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual capabilities. In the coming months, the remaining Chicago area AIT teams in Itasca and Wood Dale (including dedicated food logistics and life sciences locations) are planning to move into a unified multi-service facility in the nearby suburb of Palatine. This new joint office and warehouse space is under construction. Meanwhile, AIT Truckload Solutions will continue to serve customers out of their current location at 55 W. Monroe St. in Chicago. Conveniently located near the intersection of Interstate 290 and the Elgin-O’Hare Expressway, AIT’s new global headquarters is easily accessible from O’Hare International Airport: AIT Worldwide Logistics 2 Pierce Place, Suite 2100 Itasca, IL 60143 Tel: +1 (630) 766-8300
Dematic names Mohamed Vaid Senior Vice President Business Solutions P&L, Americas
Dematic announced the appointment of Mohamed Vaid to Senior Vice President, Business Solutions Profit & Loss (P&L), Americas. In this role, Vaid will oversee the project execution team for the Americas region, deliver excellence in project execution for customers, and partner closely with all functions within the organization to enable future success for Dematic Americas. “Mohamed was a natural choice for this position, as he’s exemplified strong leadership within the organization over the past four years,” says Mike Larsson, Executive Vice President, Americas. “With a strategic mindset and an unwavering dedication to success, his appointment ensures that Dematic will continue to excel and deliver exceptional projects and solutions for our customers.” Prior to this new role, Vaid served as Dematic Americas’ Senior Vice President, Customer Service, where he facilitated steadfast operational benefits for Dematic customers and ensured support throughout the entire lifecycle of their operations. “I am excited to take this next step in my journey with Dematic, now managing a new team with strategic project execution at the forefront of all my work,” says Vaid. “The execution phase of our work is the lengthiest and most critical part of our duties, and I look forward to further supporting our customers throughout the process.” Vaid joined Dematic in 2019 as Vice President, Global Solution Development. Before joining the organization, he garnered extensive professional experience driving global revenue with cross-functional teams over the course of his career, including executive roles with General Electric, United Technologies, ALJ Toyota, and Saudi Cable Company. A graduate from Harvard Business School, Vaid holds an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in commerce, finance, and management information systems from the University of Virginia. He is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt for excellence in professional leadership. Vaid will continue to be based out of Dematic global headquarters in Atlanta.
TVH announces changes in Customer Service and Sales Teams in the U.S.
TVH Americas, a provider of quality parts and accessories for the material handling, industrial and light construction equipment industries are making changes to the Customer Service and Sales teams in the USA. Effective July 2023, Ryan Walker was promoted to Director of Sales and Services for the USA. Cathy Diaz will remain in her current role, as Sales Director USA, until December 2023 when she will retire and leave her beloved customers in Ryan Walker and the team’s hands. Cathy Diaz, Director USA Sales, began her career with System Material Handling Inc. (SMH) in 1984. Her wealth of experience and knowledge proved vital during the acquisition of SMH by TVH in 2003. In 2006, Cathy Diaz played an integral role in the IMC Holdings (Intrupa and LPM) acquisition. Ryan Walker, Director of Technical Service, has been in the industry for 34 years. Starting his career at Intrupa he was responsible for several teams including customer service, technical support, quality and sales. Ryan Walker worked with Cathy Diaz to smoothly integrate the two companies and will pair up again to manage our service departments in the USA. With a combined 75 years of industry experience, the duo will work diligently to keep customers at the heart of our organization. TVH wishes Cathy all the best in her next chapter and to Ryan all the success in his future with TVH.
Equipment Depot announces the appointment of Anthony Garcia as President to succeed David O Turner
Equipment Depot announced that Anthony Garcia has been appointed president by the company’s Board of Directors with the transition date of September 11, 2023. Garcia succeeds president and CEO, David O. Turner, who has announced his departure after 12-years at the helm. Garcia joined Equipment Depot in 2022 as the Regional Vice President of the South Region. Prior, Garcia spent 15 years in managerial and executive roles at Mammoet, a Dutch heavy lifting and transportation service company. Most recently, he served as Regional Vice President of Mammoet Americas, overseeing the $250M US and Mexico business. Anthony has a Mechanical Engineering degree from Texas A&M and an MBA from DePaul University. Turner exits after successfully integrating five new companies into the Equipment Depot fold, reaching over 50 nationwide locations, creating numerous new sub-business units — all at a time when the company has reached all-time record-breaking milestones in sales and employee satisfaction. “Over the past 12 years, I have been privileged to be a part of the transformational journey and to have seen the extraordinary passion, commitment, and drive to be The Best Service Organization from our people,” said Turner, “As our recent performance shows, it is clear we are delivering, and after significant investments, Equipment Depot is well positioned to generate consistent, strong returns.” “Since joining Equipment Depot in 2022, Anthony has made a positive contribution to the South Texas and Louisiana Regions with his strong business instincts, leadership skills, and work ethic,” says Ken Barina, president of Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas Inc., Equipment Depot’s U.S. parent company. “Anthony has also brought a renewed sense of focus and excitement to these critically important growth Regions. We look forward to his leadership as Equipment Depot charts its course into the future.” Garcia sees technology playing a more significant role in Equipment Depot. “The industry is in a state of unprecedented technological advancement. From how automation, electrification, robotics, and Ai are playing a role, the potential to reshape the landscape is at our fingertips — and I envision Equipment Depot being on the forefront.” Garcia adds, “Investing in our people is critical as well. They are our greatest asset, and advancing their skills is an important part of the equation. We must also preserve the strong culture we have created while living our core values every day.”
Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) embraces a new look for 65th anniversary
RMI has unveiled a new logo and fresh branding to coincide with its 65th year of promoting rack safety. Founded in 1958, RMI is an MHI Industry Group and the leading racking industry association. It currently boasts 38 members, who are identified as leaders in the rack manufacturing and material handling industry space. RMI selected the advertising firm Birdsong Gregory, LLC of Charlotte, North Carolina to assist in a multi-phase brand articulation. With the introduction of a new logo and website updates, the agency has completed the first steps of rebranding. Although members eagerly anticipated the new logo, they also ensured nostalgia was built into it. RMI opted to keep the classic black and orange color palette for the new logo with a “cross beam” line through the center while adding new lettering that showcases a Serif pattern reminiscent of anchor plates on a racking system. Some of the new elements of the RMI site include the newly minted logo, a refreshed infographic design, and a fresh look for its free informational blog site, www.rmiracksafey.org. The blog newsletter also received an overhaul; readers can subscribe for free updates at www.rmiracksafety.org/newsletter-signup. “RMI has a long-established 65-year history in the industry, and it was important to the group to honor our original logo while giving a nod to the future for our new look and branding. We wanted to provide a fresh take on the widely recognized, black and orange logo, which end-users have trusted with confidence for decades to know that their project adheres to the highest engineering and design standards,” said Paul Neal, RMI President and Unarco President & CEO. An additional refresh on the horizon is the R-Mark® Certification program update and logo. Industry should expect to see the new R-Mark® logo stamp debut on member sites, as well as digital and print platforms, as early as September 2023. “The timing for a style evolution for RMI couldn’t be better as it really coincides with an industry push to integrate a variety of automation and technologies into existing facilities and rack structures as well as new ones, stated Jonathan Hirst, RMI Marketing Chair and both the Vice President and General Manager of North American Storage Equipment Inc. “Rack has evolved to meet the needs of the industry and we wanted our branding to strongly reflect that.”
Nucor announces the addition of Nicholas C. Gangestad to the Nucor Board of Directors
Nucor Corporation announced its Board of Directors elected Nicholas C. Gangestad as a director effective September 1, 2023. Mr. Gangestad, 58, currently serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Rockwell Automation, Inc., the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation. Prior to joining Rockwell in 2021, he had a long career with 3M Company, a diversified technology company with a global presence in the fields of manufacturing, worker safety, healthcare and consumer goods. Mr. Gangestad served in various roles with 3M, including Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from 2014 to 2020; Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer from 2011 to 2014; Director of Corporate Accounting from 2007 to 2011; and Vice President, Finance and Information Technology of 3M Canada from 2003 to 2007. “Nick is an accomplished executive who brings to the Board over three decades of financial expertise and significant leadership experience with global companies,” said Leon J. Topalian, Nucor’s Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to benefiting from his service and insight.”
Brenton appoints Patrick Davis as new Regional Sales Manager
Patrick Davis has been appointed Regional Sales Manager for Brenton, a role in which he will be working with east coast end-user customers and integrators to grow the company’s end-of-line packaging systems. Brenton is a global provider in designing and manufacturing integrated end-of-line case packaging systems and machines, specializing in case packing and palletizing using both robotics and other automation. Davis’s most recent role at ITW Hartness consisted of selling complex integrated systems and individual packaging equipment for food and beverage applications. His resume also includes experience in sales and managerial positions spanning 25 years, including four years of service in the United States Air Force. “I’m excited to put my experience to work developing Brenton’s dependable end-of-line packaging systems for customers,” Davis said. “The team I’m joining has proven to be an industry leader in both technology and customer service, and I look forward to contributing to Brenton’s future.” Davis, who earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina, is based in the Charlotte, N.C. area. He can be reached at pat.davis@promachbuilt.com.
CSX announces departure of Operations Executive Jamie Boychuk
CSX announced today that Jamie Boychuk, executive vice president of Operations, is leaving the company. President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Hinrichs thanked Boychuk for his role in the implementation of scheduled railroading and cited the company’s depth of operational experience that will ensure continuity while CSX searches for a successor. “On behalf of CSX and all our stakeholders, I would like to thank Jamie for his six years of service and contributions to our company, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” Hinrichs said. Hinrichs added, “CSX has an experienced operations leadership team that helped guide our operational transformation into a top-performing transportation company, and who will continue to implement and strengthen the scheduled railroading guiding principles that have been the foundation of our success.” Ricky Johnson, senior vice president of Transportation, and Casey Albright, senior vice president of Network Operations and Service Design, will report directly to Hinrichs as the company conducts an internal and external search prior to naming a new head of all operations functions. Johnson, who oversees all field operations, has over 30 years of experience in the railroad industry, including 22 years of service at CSX. Similarly, Albright has 25 years of service at CSX in various leadership roles. In his current position, he oversees fluid traffic flow across the CSX network, leading the design of service plans that support performance improvement and meet customer needs. “Our seasoned operations leadership team and talented field leaders will remain focused on executing our proven operational plan and drive growth by providing an ever-improving service product to customers. I have the highest confidence in our entire ONE CSX team, which has embraced our culture of working collaboratively to deliver strong safety and service results, positioning us to continue providing enhanced value for our shareholders and other key stakeholders,” Hinrichs said.
Mike Conroy promoted to Kalmar Director Services: Driving growth and exceptional customer experiences
In an exciting development for Kalmar, Mike Conroy has been appointed as the new Director Services, North America. With this promotion, he will take on the responsibility of driving and developing the services business in North America, overseeing both service sales and service operations. Conroy’s extensive experience and remarkable track record within the company make him an ideal candidate for this crucial role. “I am excited and proud to have Mike join the Americas Leadership Team in such a critical role. His product experience, region knowledge and enthusiasm for the challenge are vital to the success of the services division moving forward.” Randy Wingenroth, VP Region Americas Looking back at Conroy’s career, we find a rich history spanning various industries and roles. He spent the first decade of his professional life in the printing industry, gaining valuable experience in customer ser vice and sales. Conroy then transitioned to manufacturing-related positions, including planning, scheduling, production supervision, cost estimating, and sourcing. In 2008, he joined Kalmar, initially working in the Sourcing department, where he managed several categories for Terminal Tractor production in Ottawa. Conroy’s accomplishments within Kalmar continued to grow as he took on more responsibilities. He played a pivotal role in the successful transition of the Princeton Truck Mounted Forklift business from Canal Winchester, OH to Ottawa. In 2010, he became the Sourcing and Supplier Development Manager for the Ottawa MAU, overseeing the Global Axle Category for Kalmar as well. In 2018, Conroy assumed the Terminal Tractor After Sales responsibilities globally, further contributing to the company’s success. With his extensive background and diverse experience, Conroy’s vision for his new role as Director Services, North America is clear. He aims to further propel the North American service and parts business, which has already made a significant impact on Kalmar’s global service division. Conroy is committed to driving profitable growth and ensuring an exceptional customer experience. Inspired by Ken Blanchard’s book “Raving Fans,” he encourages his teams to provide outstanding service, creating satisfied customers who become advocates for Kalmar and generate further business opportunities. In light of the recent promotion, Marques Askins has been named the new Terminal Tractor Parts Manager. Conroy expressed his excitement for Askins and the entire TT sales team, highlighting the growth opportunities available within Kalmar. Having witnessed Askins’ success in previous roles, Conroy believes he is well-deserving of this leadership position. Conroy looks forward to supporting Askins as he leads the TT parts team to new heights. Outside of his professional life, Conroy has made Ottawa, KS his home for the past 26 years, living there with his wife, three children, and a few English Setters. During his leisure time, he enjoys engaging in outdoor activities such as hunting upland game and fly fishing. Additionally, Conroy has developed a passion for perfecting his BBQ skills, adding flavor and creativity to his culinary endeavors. With Mike Conroy’s promotion to Director Services, North America, Kalmar can look forward to continued growth and exceptional customer experiences. His extensive background, dedication, and visionary leadership will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the company and strengthen its position in the North American market.
Orbital wrapper manufacturer appoints sales associate
Orbital wrapper manufacturer TAB Industries, LLC, Reading, Pa., has named Kevin Slick sales associate. Bringing nearly five years of business-to-business sales management and technical sales experience to the new position, Slick is responsible for growing sales for the company’s line of patented TAB Wrapper Tornado orbital wrapping machines worldwide. The orbital pallet wrappers enable one operator to automatically apply stretch wrap 360 degrees around and under a pallet and load to create a stable, secure load in one minute or less that withstands shifting in transit and eliminates product damage. This new position was created to accommodate increasing demand for the orbital stretch wrappers, according to Andy Brizek, vice president of sales and marketing for the family-owned company. “We’re committed to providing a high level of personal service and technical expertise with fast lead times even as interest in our orbital wrappers continues to spike,” says Brizek. “Kevin’s proven track record serving both Fortune 500 companies and growing, family-owned manufacturers has helped him become an important part of our team in a very short time.” Slick is currently studying business administration at Millersville University of Pennsylvania, Millersville, Pa., and coaches baseball for Central Mountain High School, Mill Hall, Pa. He resides in Malvern, Pa.
Women In Trucking Association announces its August 2023 Member of the Month
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Vontyna Durham as its August 2023 Member of the Month. Durham is the founder and president of Xcelente Trucking and Logistics Training Services in Memphis, Tennessee. Following in the footsteps of her cousin and fiercely determined to dominate a male-populated industry, Durham attended trucking school and obtained her CDL. She was the only woman in her class at the time, as women were not widely accepted in these professions, but she knew she could do it like the guys – if not better. Now, with more than 18 years of driving under her belt, Durham is fueled by her dedication to her community and is a firm believer in second chances. As a result, she is the first woman in the State of Tennessee to establish a CDL apprenticeship program specifically developed for women, youth, and justice-involved individuals. “I’m a game changer and I focus on making a difference and changing lives,” said Durham. “My goal is to show people that whether you have been homeless or have been incarcerated, you can still have a rewarding career. You could say I’m like the underground mother of the trucking industry.” Durham’s commitment to the empowerment of the next generation sparked the development of the first-ever youth trucking dispatcher and CDL program. The program is available to individuals between the ages of 16 and 24 and provides mentorship, job shadowing, and advanced skill building. In 2022, she received the Leaders and Legends award by the City of Memphis for these efforts. She is also a member of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot (SDAP) Program. Durham is creating a movement by training highly qualified drivers to meet the growing demand of the transportation industry. She encourages all women to have confidence in themselves and pursue a career in the trucking industry saying, “if you’re determined and you’ve decided this career path is what you want to do – just go for it. Set yourself up for success, stay focused, and accomplish your goals.”
Women In Trucking Association names 2023 Top Woman-Owned Businesses in Transportation
Redefining the Road magazine, the official magazine of the Women In Trucking Association (WIT), just announced the recipients of the 2023 “Top Woman-Owned Businesses in Transportation.” There are many reasons to recognize female entrepreneurs, which is the reason Redefining the Road magazine launched the “Top Woman-Owned Businesses in Transportation” recognition program in 2017, said Brian Everett, group publisher and editorial director of the magazine. Six years later, WIT continues to recognize successful organizations in transportation that are led or owned by women. Criteria used to identify qualified applicants include majority ownership by a woman, financial stability and growth, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit, according to Everett. Each company was nominated and chosen based upon business success and accomplishments including those related to gender diversity. Women-owned firms now comprise 30% of all businesses in the United States and they’re generating approximately U.S. $1.5 trillion in revenue, according to the latest reports by American Express. ”Woman-owned businesses are on the rise, and with good reason,” said Jennifer Hedrick, president and CEO of WIT. “Women bring unique perspectives, skills and experiences to the businesses they lead, which can make them ideal business owners. The Women In Trucking Association continues to encourage female entrepreneurs to start and lead their own businesses, which can lead toward increased financial independence and create pathways for other women pursuing similar goals.” There is a broad range of company sizes named to the 2023 “Top Woman-Owned Businesses in Transportation” list, which is sponsored by Triumph, but all must generate a minimum of $5 million in gross annual sales. Companies named to the 2023 “Top Woman-Owned Businesses in Transportation” list and the primary female business owners are: 3 Sisters Logistics (Leslie Tarble, president) AGT Global Logistics (Angela Eliacostas, founder & president) Andy Transport, Inc. (Andreea Crisan, president & CEO) Aria Logistics LLC (Arelis Bonilla, CEO & president) Bennett Family of Companies (Marcia G. Taylor, CEO) Brenny Transportation, Inc. (Joyce Brenny, founder & CEO) Candor Expedite, Inc. (Nicole Glenn, founder & CEO) Garner Trucking (Sherri Garner Brumbaugh, president & CEO) Hassett Logistics (Michelle Halkerston, owner & CEO) Lineas 1o de Mayo, S.A. de C.V. (Blanca Mondragon, president) Powersource Transportation (Barb Bakos, president & CEO) Rihm Family of Companies (Kari Rihm, president & CEO) S-2international LLC (Jennifer Mead, founder & CEO) STARS HazMat Consulting (Wendy J. Buckley, president & CEO) Tucker Freight Lines, Inc. (Saunya Tucker, CEO) UFL Services, Inc. (Jennifer Behnke, co-owner & president) Youmans Transport, Inc., Evans Delivery Agent, Savannah (Sherry Youmans, president & owner) The 2023 “Top Woman-Owned Businesses in Transportation” will be recognized during a special program at the upcoming Women In Trucking Accelerate! Conference & Expo, which takes place Nov. 5-8 in Dallas, TX.
Fairchild Equipment announces new location in Rockford
Van Clarkson, president of Fairchild Equipment, has announced a new location in Rockford, Illinois, which has just opened. “We are extremely excited to have moved into this new facility in Rockford,” Clarkson said. “It brings us closer to some of our larger customers in our Illinois region which will greatly reduce delivery costs for them. The area of Illinois from Rockford down to Rochelle has also seen significant growth in distribution due to its proximity to several major interstates and intermodal rail. This better positions us to serve this important market” he further explained. The new facility, which is located off of Highway 20 and Kishwaukee Street at 597 Grable Street in Rockford, is now home to a growing team and replaces Fairchild Equipment’s Beloit location at 755 East Philhower Road. The new Rockford branch offers triple the space, enabling Fairchild Equipment to add shop technicians, plus provide additional office space for service writers, customer care and sales teams to support customers. “This move gives us a presence in Northern Illinois which will enable us to better service our customers in this area to our full potential,” Brent Maurer, the Branch Manager for the Rockford branch, stated. “We are thrilled to have substantially more space in this new facility and be able to bring our portfolio of leading material handling equipment brands, in-shop service, parts and rental equipment closer to our customers in Illinois,” he continued. This new facility marks the third facility expansion since 2020 in Fairchild Equipment’s network of locations throughout the Midwest. It will better accommodate the expansive product line Fairchild Equipment offers, which includes warehouse and materials handling equipment as well as engineered storage solutions and fleet management services. Its diverse line of materials handling equipment brands provide a holistic approach to solving all of organizations’ operational challenges related to moving, stacking and storing materials. Fairchild Equipment is committed to providing outstanding service and innovative goods and solutions to become a valued business partner for its customers and create customers for life.
Tompkins Solutions names Dan Bryan Vice President of Sales
Tompkins Solutions, a supply chain consulting and material handling integration firm, just announced that Dan Bryan has joined the company as vice president of sales. In this role, Bryan will be responsible for driving sales growth and identifying opportunities to deliver value to existing and prospective customers. Bryan has more than two decades of experience leading sourcing and logistics initiatives and business development efforts for organizations ranging from small startups to Fortune 500 companies. Prior to joining Tompkins, Bryan was partner and vice president for Blue Spring Partners, and also held senior management positions with Overstock.com, iFit (formerly Icon Health & Fitness) and UPS Supply Chain Solutions. “Dan’s extensive background in supply chain and logistics and demonstrated success helping companies achieve revenue targets and reduce costs will be invaluable to both our clients and our organization,” said David Latona, CEO of Tompkins Solutions. “We’re excited to have him on board and help us continue to deliver results-driven supply chain solutions to our customers.”
Hyster receives green award for developing clean power solutions for materials handling equipment
Hyster Company announces its selection as a 2023 Green Supply Chain Partner by Inbound Logistics magazine. The award honors Hyster® for innovating clean power solutions that help operations in intensive industries like ports and manufacturing mitigate environmental impact and meet growing sustainability regulations and goals. In keeping with its commitment to develop industry-first solutions, Hyster is at the forefront of electrifying higher-capacity equipment that has traditionally relied on internal combustion engine (ICE) power. The company’s innovations in hydrogen fuel cell-powered (HFC) port equipment resulted in the first-ever real-world pilot of an HFC-powered top-pick container handler, located at Fenix Marine Services in the Port of Los Angeles. The container handler is designed to provide the zero emissions benefits of a battery electric option, but with enough energy capacity to keep operations moving for a full shift, avoiding the need to interrupt productivity by stopping to recharge or refuel. This single truck is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 127 tons and reduce criteria pollutants by half a ton over the course of a year, according to the Center for Transportation and the Environment. Hyster also has planned pilots for an HFC-powered reachstacker at the Port of Valencia in Spain, an HFC-powered empty container handler and terminal tractor in Hamburg, Germany and is working with Capacity Trucks to develop electric and hydrogen-powered terminal tractors. In developing these solutions, Hyster draws on a wealth of experience in electric forklift design with the company’s line of smaller, lighter-capacity equipment, for which Hyster offers extensive electric power options. This recognition as a Green Supply Chain Partner is its fourth honor in a row and follows on the heels of the company’s selection by the Sustainable Energy Council (SEC) as one of four finalists in the industrial application category of the World Hydrogen 2023 Awards. “Increasingly, companies and government bodies are grappling with the task of limiting emissions and pursuing sustainability,” says Herman Klaus, Director, Big Truck Application Solutions, Hyster Company. “As we continue to expand green options, we’re helping our customers obtain the right clean power solution to help them meet their emissions reduction targets, even in applications where electrification might not have seemed possible before.”