CAD2SCAN named best innovation in machine vision at the VISION Show
Israel-based smart inspection planning company c has announced that its CAD2SCAN software has received the VISION Award for best innovation in the machine vision industry. The award was presented at the VISION show on October 5, 2022, in Stuttgart, Germany. “Being recognized with the VISION Award reflects on the incredible capabilities of our CAD2SCAN technology as a leap forward in automatic inspection planning,” said Dr. Yossi Rubner, founder and CTO of Kitov.ai. “We would like to thank VISION for this honor and congratulate the other finalists on their innovative technologies.” CAD2SCAN technology significantly simplifies the setup of robotic inspection systems using CAD-based automated inspection planning. It expands the capabilities of Kitov’s software platform and allows for complete automation of product inspection from the CAD to the actual manufacturing line. Quality engineers can define their inspection requirements directly on a complex CAD model, simply and intuitively, saving weeks or even months compared to manual programming. Particularly useful for parts with complex geometries, CAD2SCAN automatically extracts specific geometric and semantic information for each inspection requirement marked on the CAD. This information is passed on to the relevant semantic detectors performing the inspection tasks. In addition to having built-in semantic detectors such as surface, label, screw, and existence detectors, Kitov.ai’s open software platform allows easy integration of third-party detectors that can benefit from the planning and reporting services provided by the platform. CAD2SCAN also optimizes inspection plans with accuracy and throughput in mind, guaranteeing full coverage while reducing robot motion and the number of images needed to cover all regions of interest, minimizing total inspection time. Automatic CAD-based inspection planning is a game-changer for industries that manufacture complex parts and products. CAD2SCAN technology is implemented as a plugin to common CAD software systems. (It’s currently available for SOLIDWORKS and Creo.) It also supports the evolving QIF (quality information framework) ISO standard and can parse visual inspection requirements embedded into it. The CAD2SCAN project was funded by the Israel–U.S. BIRD (Binational Industrial Research and Development) Foundation and completed in partnership with Capvidia, a provider of true model-based definition technology.
PTDA welcomes two new distributor members
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA), the association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel, welcomes two new member companies. Klockner Group (Columbia, S.C.) Klockner Group services industrial facilities across the U.S. with engineering, installation, fabrication, and parts for conveying systems. It is a major distributor of welded steel chain, cut tooth, and machine tooth sprockets for all material handling industrial chain installations. The company also offers technical field inspection of material handling applications to analyze problem areas and determine solutions for maximum production and maintenance-free operation. “Klockner Group strives to provide the highest quality parts and solutions in support of our customers and industry partners,” says Richie Hayward, vice president. “We joined PTDA to strengthen our relationships and grow in our knowledge of the industry.” Learn more at KlocknerGroup.com. Gerbers of Montana (Great Falls, Mont.) Gerbers of Montana has been a specialist in grain handling equipment since 1878 and now is also the largest bearing/PT stocking distributor in the state. The company prides itself on providing customer service, high industry knowledge, and having quality products in stock. “We are excited to join PTDA and are looking forward to building relationships and learning from fellow distributors/small businesses in the bearing/power transmission industry,” says Jill Tranmer, business manager. Learn more at GerbersOfMontana.com. The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) is a global association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel. Headquartered in Chicago, PTDA represents power transmission/motion control distribution firms that generate more than $19 billion in sales and span over 2,700 locations. PTDA members also include manufacturers that supply the PT/MC industry.
LiuGong North America adds APEX Equipment to dealer network
LiuGong North America will welcome APEX Equipment Inc. to its expanding dealer network. Based in Atoka, Oklahoma, the dealership covers a territory that spans from Oklahoma to Southern Arkansas and Northeast Texas. The APEX Equipment leadership team of Ryan Mitchell (President), Bryan Debban (Executive Vice President), and Rick Mitchell (Senior Vice President) boast nearly 100 years of combined industry experience. “We were looking for a dependable product to represent and sell in a very demanding industry,” Ryan Mitchell said. APEX Equipment’s central location in the Kiamichi Mountains makes it an ideal spot to gain business for residential and construction projects that are taking place across Oklahoma. There’s also a wide array of quarry, mining, and major construction companies in the surrounding areas. LiuGong North America President Andrew Ryan said the partnership with APEX Equipment will continue to strengthen its dealer network in the region. “The growth of our dealer network is central to our strategy in North America,” he said. “We believe LiuGong machines are some of the best on the market, and we want great partners to represent and support them with our customers. We believe APEX Equipment is a perfect example and are excited to work together.” The dealership offers equipment for applications, including construction, mining, quarry, municipal, forestry, agriculture, consumer recreation, oil, gas, and material handling. Ryan Mitchell said he believes the partnership will be mutually beneficial for both companies. “This partnership will allow us to stimulate growth in local and statewide economies, and maintain customer relationships based on integrity and trust,” he said. “Providing superior sales and service will be our trademark while representing LiuGong North America and APEX Equipment.”
Women In Trucking Association announces its October 2022 Member of the Month
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Jessica Olsen as its October 2022 Member of the Month. Olsen is a professional driver for SRS Distribution. Olsen was introduced to the world of trucking when she worked as a truck stop waitress. She wondered if a professional driving career would be a good fit and regularly questioned drivers coming through about their careers and what it takes to be successful in the transportation industry. However, after becoming a single mother, she had to pause her efforts to follow this career path. Like many restaurant workers in 2020, Olsen was laid off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With continued encouragement from her customers, she used the stimulus money she received to go to a trucking school and obtained her CDL. Open to embracing new experiences, she looked for opportunities in her area that would give her experience behind the wheel. She accepted a position at ABC Supply driving a boom truck. While at the company, she also learned how to operate a crane and became National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) certified. “I stumbled upon crane operation simply because my previous employer was at the top of an alphabetical list,” said Olsen. “I had no idea what I was getting into or how much fun I would end up having. Operating a crane is like stepping into the shoes of a much larger and more powerful being and each job site is a puzzle to solve. I truly enjoy going to work every day and 18 months later, that magic still hasn’t worn off.” In May of 2022, Olsen began her career at SRS Distribution as a professional driver and Logistics Specialist II boom driver and operator. She is known for consistently delivering materials in a safe and efficient manner. Additionally, she has built a reputation within her company for having a positive attitude and many of her coworkers say she is a pleasure to work with. Olsen encourages other women to pursue a career in the industry and to not get discouraged. “Don’t be afraid to go after an intimidating specialty and always be confident in your own abilities.”
Excel Composites expands sales team
Following huge private and public infrastructural funding across North and Central America, global composites manufacturer Exel Composites has invested in expanding the sales team based at its factory in Erlanger, Northern Kentucky. The team serves customers in the North and Central American markets as well as opening up customers to Exel’s global network. Now the team is looking to increase the awareness and benefits of pull-winding technology. This introduction comes at a time when governments across the Americas are looking to invest multi-billion, even trillion, dollar infrastructure packages to rebuild and futureproof power grids, transportation systems, and telecommunications networks. For example, Biden’s $1 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure bill will provide $89.9 billion to expand public transport, helping to replace obsolete vehicles with clean, zero-emission vehicles. With huge growth expected in these segments, the team is well positioned to help new customers take advantage of composites to solve challenges, drawing on its experience in business development and the technical expertise honed from many years of working with plastics, injection molding, and pultruded composite companies. Drawing on experience Over several decades of navigating the European markets, Exel has successfully positioned itself as an expert in manufacturing lightweight, robust, and long-lasting carbon fiber and fiberglass composites for transportation, power grid infrastructure, telecommunications, buildings, and construction. The company’s pultrusion and pull-winging processes are highly automated compared to manual manufacturing techniques, which ensures continuous, high-volume production of composite profiles at a consistent quality. “The American market was one of the first to accept the benefits of pultrusion. Thanks to the acquisition of the well-established North American pultruder Diversified Structural Composites (DSC) in 2018, the potential of the benefits of pull-winding to fill a gap in the market also became apparent”, explained Francesco Ierullo, Head of Sales for the Americas markets at Exel Composites. He continued, “Like pultrusion, pull-winding pulls saturated fibers through a heated die. The main difference is that the fibers can be organized in a crosswise or longitudinal alignment, depending on the application’s requirements. This cross-directional control of mechanical properties makes pull-winding the ideal manufacturing process for composite hollow profiles with thin walls. For building materials, this is important because it means the material’s weight is kept low, fewer resources are wasted during manufacturing, and production costs remain manageable”. Being a world leader in pull-winding technology, Exel Composites is well placed to bring these solutions to the American markets where there are almost no companies using this production process. The company aims to do this with the help of Ierullo, Head of Sales, and two Area Sales Managers. About the team Ierullo has worked with Exel Composites in Europe since 2015, recently relocating to Erlanger from Italy to help strengthen the company’s visibility. He is joined by two Area Sales Managers for North America, John Mertic and Marc Tagher, and a North American Sales Representative, Roger Gastineau. Mertic brings his experience managing the sales for multimillion-dollar accounts to help increase Exel’s market share across the continents in a targeted, strategic manner. His expertise in telecommunications, electrical composites, and conductor cores will allow Exel to grow in line with the pending infrastructural investments across the Americas. Tagher’s technical skills gathered from 25 years in the field of engineering make him an ideal consultant and collaborator for a growing customer base. He specializes in airports, defense, aerospace and marine transportation, and construction. Gastineau, the American agent for transportation, has been an integral team member at Exel for many years. Exel combines a large but local ‘made in USA’ manufacturing footprint with the expertise of a global company to provide efficient sales support, technical consultancy, and customer service from its Erlanger factory. The company has seven production factories throughout the globe, providing manufacturing support and the development of specific products in targeted applications. The team’s collaborative, forward-thinking approach to manufacturing will ensure an efficient service while helping customers overcome their challenges with composite solutions.
UgoWork welcomes Tim Ballard as Director of Sales as part of its North American expansion plans
UgoWork™, a Canadian energy solutions provider specializing in lithium-ion batteries and Energy as a Service (EaaS) solutions in the material handling industry, just announced that industry veteran, Tim Ballard, is now the company’s Director of Sales. This is yet another initiative UgoWork has taken as it continues to make inroads across the US and Canada. Tim has over two decades of proven experience in material handling. After studying at the University of Louisville in Kentucky, he worked in several management positions at ProLift Industrial Equipment, an official full-service and material handling dealership for Toyota. Apart from an in-depth and pragmatic understanding of industry needs and trends, Tim’s strengths reside in his track record of working in all aspects of material handling, including operations, sales, training, and support. “We are thrilled to welcome Tim to the team,” explained Philippe Beauchamp, UgoWork’s CEO. “When I first met Tim through different projects, I already knew about his incredible reputation in the industry. We have an amazing response from the market and Tim comes at the right time. His approach and personality are a perfect fit for our team, and his contribution to our phenomenal expansion is extremely exciting. His background and rigor will definitely help our entire team achieve the very ambitious expansion goals we have set for the company.” Tim shares Philippe’s eagerness to pave the way for UgoWork’s innovative approach to energy management for material handling teams. “I was very impressed with UgoWork’s vision and the performance of both its lithium-ion batteries and Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) model,” he said. “No other manufacturer offers these types of solutions on the market—a solution that truly addresses today’s material handling challenges.” “What started off as a customer-vendor relationship evolved into something much more. Right away, I saw the advantages of UgoWork’s products and what they could do. The customer value speaks for itself,” Tim added. His plans for UgoWork in the upcoming months? “I want the business to have the very best sales team in the industry so that we can educate and serve material handling teams across North America about the benefits of lithium-ion batteries and EaaS as compared to other legacy technologies. UgoWork’s future looks very bright indeed.”
Tompkins Robotics adds Legal Counsel and Business Development Executives to its leadership team
Tompkins Robotics, a global provider focused on the robotic automation of distribution and fulfillment operations, has announced two new leaders to its executive team in response to company growth. Pat Mathavan has joined the company as Legal & Intellectual Property (IP) Counsel, and Michael Carmody was named Vice President of Robots as a Service (RaaS) Business Development & Sales. In his new role, Mathavan is responsible for all legal matters for Tompkins Robotics and manages the company’s IP portfolio, which includes the preparation and prosecution of patent applications and trademark applications worldwide. Previously, he held in-house IP/Patent attorney roles at Vesuvius Corporation, IBM, and at various law firms specializing in intellectual property. Pat earned his J.D. with a specialization in Intellectual Property Law from Quinnipiac University School of Law, his MBA from Southern Connecticut State University, and his B.S. from SUNY Maritime College. He is admitted to the North Carolina and Connecticut bars and is registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. He is also a Registered Engineer-in-Training (EIT) in New Hampshire, and currently pursuing his MEng in electrical and computer engineering from North Carolina State University. As Vice President of RaaS Business Development and Sales, Michael Carmody brings more than 24 years of Supply Chain expertise in deploying engineered solutions and technology applications across North America and Mexico. With a focus on the third-party logistics market, Michael is tasked to chart a compelling roadmap for the Robots as a Service subscription offering recently unveiled by the company. Prior to joining Tompkins Robotics, Carmody led 3PL Business Development for AutoStore North America; delivered software transformation as Principal Consultant in transportation system implementations with enVista, and led cloud TMS implementations for MercuryGate. Carmody has established a track record of effective supply chain design and optimization success across Fortune 500 networks. Michael is fluent in English, with working Spanish skills. Carmody is a graduate of The Ohio State University with a Masters in Geography focused on logistic networks optimization and earned a Bachelors from Carthage College. Additionally, he co-founded a non-profit organization providing supply chain leverage for smaller organizations helping communities rebuild after natural disasters.
AutoScheduler.AI named Analytics winner in NextGen Solution provider Supply Chain Awards
AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Management System (WMS) accelerator, announces the company has been named the Analytics Winner in the 2022 NextGen Solution Provider Awards from Supply Chain Management Review (SCMR). The Annual NextGen Awards honor those companies at the forefront of emerging technologies. An awards ceremony will occur at the NextGen Supply Chain Conference in Chicago, October 17 – 19, 2022. On Tuesday, October 18, 2022, NextGen Supply Chain Conference will proudly recognize four solution providers and four end-user companies for utilizing technologies that will shape tomorrow’s supply chains during the NextGen Supply Chain Conference. At the conference, supplier and end-user winners will share their success stories on how they are leading the way in new technologies. “We are proud that this prestigious publication has chosen AutoScheduler as the best in the artificial intelligence solution provider category. Our technology smooths warehouse operations by orchestrating and planning all activities in real-time on top of an existing WMS. It considers space, time, labor, dock doors, and more constraints to ensure that orders are fulfilled on time and in full. Clients gain efficiencies and value in their supply chains through optimized labor, schedules, touches, and inventory.” said Keith Moore, Chief Executive Officer at AutoScheduler. “This is the fourth year for the NextGen Supply Chain awards. The awards are meant to recognize supply chain professionals and solution providers who are moving technology forward. Early adopters and first movers win in the marketplace. We hope their stories will encourage other companies to follow their example.” added Bob Trebilcock, Editorial Director at Supply Chain Management Review Jeff Potts, Chief Revenue Officer at AutoScheduler.AI, will speak at the conference on how businesses gain value and efficiencies when implementing AutoScheduler. The warehouse resource planning and optimization platform dynamically orchestrate all activities on top of an existing WMS in real-time. Clients maximize capacity and maintain higher fill rates while meeting customer order requirements, on time and in full. The NextGen Supply Chain Conference prepares senior-level supply chain executives for the future technologies and processes that will have the most transformative effects on their supply chains. This year’s conference will focus on emerging supply chain technologies that are powering tomorrow’s supply chains and enabling the digital transformation of supply chain processes.
Tri-Lift Industries joins LiuGong North America Dealer Network
LiuGong North America is adding North Carolina-based Tri-Lift Industries to its dealer lineup. Founded in 1968, the third-generation family business covers a three-state area across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Tri-Lift Industries President and owner Bob Bond said he is excited about the opportunity to partner with LiuGong as a forklift dealer. “I think there is a great opportunity for us to create a market presence for this brand,” Bond said. “We are very comfortable bringing a new product to the market with our rental and after-market focus.” The opportunity arose as Tri-Lift Industries sought to diversify its product offerings during the pandemic. Bond said he was impressed with LiuGong machines at past trade shows, and LiuGong offered Tri-Lift Industries the ability to cover its entire territory while significantly increasing the size of its rental fleet. LiuGong North America President Andrew Ryan said the partnership will be mutually beneficial. “The further development of LiuGong’s dealer network is central to our growth strategy in North America,” Ryan said. “We believe LiuGong machines are some of the best available in our industry and we want great partners like Tri-Lift Industries to represent and support them with our customers.” LiuGong North America Director of Material Handling Jared Ward welcomed Tri-Lift Industries and noted that it will play a vital role in its dealer network. “The Carolina and Virginia region is important for LiuGong North America as we continue to expand our line of forklift dealers,” Ward said. “We welcome Tri-Lift Industries, as they’ve shown great dedication and are building for the future of their company with the next generation of their family’s work with the business.” Throughout the process of joining the LiuGong dealer network, Bond said he was struck by how invested LiuGong’s leadership was in their business. LiuGong executives visited Tri-Lift Industries in person to identify territories, put together an initial order and introduce the regional representative. “Maybe it’s old-fashioned, but it means a lot to me,” Bond said. “They recognize that this is a big decision for a dealership. I think that’s a great way to start a partnership.”
Hubbell Incorporated announces Segment Leadership transition
Hubbell Incorporated has announced that Pete Lau has stepped down as president of Hubbell’s Electrical Solutions (“HES”) segment, effective September 30, 2022. His departure follows a mutual determination by the Company and Mr. Lau to transition HES to new leadership. Mr. Lau will be pursuing opportunities outside the Company following his departure. Hubbell has initiated a search to identify the next leader for HES, and the Company expects to consider both internal and external candidates for the role. During this interim period, the leaders of the segment’s four strategic business units will report directly to Gerben Bakker, Hubbell’s Chairman, President and CEO. “Hubbell Electrical Solutions is well-positioned for continued success and we are confident in the segment’s near- and long-term financial outlook, as well as its ability to continue delivering value for our customers through quality, reliability, and service,” said Mr. Bakker. “Since unifying HES into one operating segment two years ago, we have established a strong foundation and an effective strategy. Importantly, we have a deep bench of talent, and we expect to build on recent momentum with a strong finish to 2022 while we conduct a search to identify the next leader.” “I want to thank Pete for his leadership and contributions to Hubbell over the last two years and wish him the best,” concluded Mr. Bakker.
FMCSA Administrator Hutcheson to keynote Women In Trucking Accelerate! Conference
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) announces that Robin Hutcheson, the newly confirmed administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), will be the opening keynote on Nov. 14 at its upcoming Accelerate! Conference & Expo. The conference, which will take place Nov. 13-16 at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, TX, is the largest event to encourage employment, address obstacles, and celebrate the successes of women in the trucking industry. WIT expects more than 1,300 attendees this year. “We are thrilled to have Administrator Hutcheson share her perspectives on safety in the trucking industry, supply chain challenges, and the truck driver shortage,” said Ellen Voie, WIT president and CEO. “WIT has worked closely with the FMCSA in recent years, and recently hosted Hutcheson on a truck ride-along to help her better understand driver issues. The former deputy administrator, Meera Joshi, was WIT’s keynote speaker in 2021.” This will be WIT’s eighth annual Accelerate! Conference & Expo and the third year the association has held a virtual version of the event, which will take place Dec. 6-7. The in-person and virtual conference will feature more than 60 educational sessions on critical transportation and logistics issues through the lens of gender diversity. Topics will be relevant to professionals involved in leadership, human resources/talent management, operations and safety, sales and marketing, and driver recruiting and engagement. Additionally, more than 100 speakers and facilitators will be featured from leading companies such as Amazon, Walmart, Yellow, Navistar, Kenworth Trucks, Peterbilt, Great Dane, Bridgestone, XPO Logistics, J.B. Hunt Transport, Penske Transportation Solutions, DAT Freight & Analytics, Truckstop.com, UPS, Coyote Logistics, Waymo and Plus. The event also will feature an expo with more than 150 companies representing more than 1,000 products and services valuable to the transportation industry. “We bring the Accelerate! Conference & Expo to the marketplace because of the importance of workforce diversity,” said Voie. “Diversity in experience, skills and perspective is proven to be critical to the success of any company in transportation, and gender diversity is a critical path to this goal. This event is one way for our industry to share new ideas and best practices that encourage the employment of women in the transportation industry.”
H&E opens new branch in Indio, CA
Effective September 27, 2022, H&E Equipment Services Inc. (H&E) announces the opening of its new Indio branch, its 12th location in California. The branch is located at 45600 Citrus Avenue, Indio, CA 92201-3449, phone 442-307-6200. It includes a fully fenced yard area, offices, and a separate repair shop and is capable of handling a variety of construction and general industrial equipment for customers working throughout the low desert areas of Coachella and Imperial valleys in Southern California. “From Palm Springs down to the Salton Sea and the surrounding areas, H&E has serviced the region from nearby branches for several years. With such demand for quality equipment, we’ve taken the next natural step and established a location right in the heart of the Coachella Valley, which hosts a mixture of everything: agriculture, green energy like solar and wind, geothermal energy, entertainment, leisure, and, of course, general construction. The growth in the last decade has been incredible,” says Branch Manager Jacob Murrieta, who has been with H&E for nearly 20 years. “The new branch opens its doors at the same time as the much-anticipated home of the Firebird hockey team and will be ready for events such as Stagecoach and Coachella Fest 2023. Our team represents decades of experience from members who call the Coachella Valley home, and we can’t wait to grow with this beautiful place.” The Indio branch specializes in the rental of aerial lifts, telescopic forklifts, earthmoving machinery, compaction equipment, generators, compressors, and more and represents the following manufacturers: Allmand, Atlas Copco, Bomag, Case, Club Car, Cushman, Doosan, Gehl, Generac Mobile, Genie, Hilti, Husqvarna, JCB, JLG, John Deere, Kubota, LayMor, Ledwell, Lincoln Electric, Link-Belt Excavators, MEC, Miller, Multiquip, Polaris, Skyjack, SkyTrak, Sullair, Sullivan-Palatek, TAG, Taylor, Towmaster Trailers, Wacker Neuson, Yanmar, and others.
Twin Disc signs lease agreement for office location in Milwaukee
Twin Disc, Inc., a global provider of power transmission technology for marine, land-based, and oil & gas applications, has announced the lease of office space in Milwaukee, WI. The 8,100 square foot space on the fourth floor of an office building located on Erie Street in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward will accommodate approximately 25 employees. The Company expects to relocate its corporate team to the new location in early 2023. The lease of office space in Milwaukee, and the tentative sale of its location at 1328 Racine Street, are part of Twin Disc’s asset optimization strategy. “We continue to find ways to reduce our footprint and provide more value for our shareholders, customers, and employees,” said John Batten, President & Chief Executive Officer, Twin Disc, Inc. “We assessed several locations for the new office space and found that downtown Milwaukee better suits this subset of employees.” “Having transitioned manufacturing and assembly functions to more modern and efficient facilities in the Racine area, our current space is not being fully utilized,” continued Batten. “We truly believe that the community will be better served if our building on Racine Street is redeveloped into a space that provides more jobs or amenities.” Its Wisconsin-based manufacturing and assembly facilities, located at 4600 21st St, Racine, WI, will continue to produce industrial products, marine transmissions for the commercial and pleasure craft markets, and land-based transmissions used in off-road applications. The Company will continue operations at its North American Aftermarket Distribution Center, located in Sturtevant, WI.
Xeneta Chief Marketing Officer Katherine Barrios Named a Winner of Third Annual Women in Supply Chain Award
Barrios leads the Xeneta Marketing and Customer Success Teams to cultivate measurable results Xeneta, an ocean and air freight rate benchmarking and market analytics platform, announced today that its CMO, Katherine Barrios, has been named a recipient of Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2022 Women in Supply Chain Award. The accolade honors female supply chain leaders and executives whose accomplishments, mentorship, and examples set a foundation for women at all levels of a company’s supply chain network. As Xeneta’s CMO, Barrios leads the company’s marketing and customer success teams. She joined the company in 2015 with nearly 20 years of experience in B2B tech product marketing and management, demand generation, enterprise sales, and PR/communication experience from various software industries. She has positioned Xeneta as a recognized and credible leader in the ocean and air freight industry and transitioned the company from a start-up to a scale-up through three funding rounds. Barrios is responsible for cultivating the company’s and product’s unique value proposition and messaging strategy and spearheading a strategic shift to an enterprise go-to-market motion. The company counts hundreds of the world’s largest brands on its customer roster, including Electrolux, Unilever, Nestle, Zebra Technologies, Thyssenkrupp, Volvo, General Mills, Proctor & Gamble, and John Deere. “I am honored to be recognized for this award. Before I began working with Xeneta, the industry wasn’t as diverse as it is now. Together with my team and the rest of the company, we have been breaking that mold, and have significantly grown Xeneta’s female employee base,” says Barrios. “We are proud of that for what it represents in the supply chain and freight tech industry. Xeneta’s trusted reputation in logistics continues to grow.” Xeneta is the creator of the world’s largest ocean and air freight benchmarking and market analytics platform. Xeneta believes there is an untapped potential for everyone in the shipping industry to systematically learn from individual and collective efforts. Barrios says, “If you cannot measure it, you cannot improve it. This is true for both the supply chain and the people within it.” Founded in 2019, The Women in Supply Chain Award recognizes individuals from software and service providers, consultancies and academia, trucking and transportation firms, professional development agencies, sourcing and procurement divisions, and more, who have helped supply chain clients and the supply chain community at large prepare to meet many of today’s—and tomorrow’s—challenges. Gartner reports that women occupy only 21% of VP and senior director supply chain roles. Supply & Demand Chain Executive Editor-in-Chief of Supply & Demand Chain Executive and Food Logistics Marina Mayer says, “I was envisioning a long road ahead in getting the supply chain industry educated enough as to why it was important to recognize women in the supply chain. But this award is a testament that supply chain organizations already recognized their female leaders, they just needed a better platform.”
Joe Pajer appointed as Chief Executive Officer and President of Seegrid
Seegrid Corporation, a provider of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for material handling, has announced that Joe Pajer has joined the Company as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Mr. Pajer succeeds Jim Rock, who will continue as a Seegrid shareholder and advisor. Mr. Pajer will also serve on the Board of Directors. Pajer comes to Seegrid with more than 40 years of experience in the technology industry, including having previously served as CEO of Calero-MDSL (a technology expense management software company), Thinklogical (a high-end video switching company sold to Belden), and Vocollect (a warehouse automation software company sold to Honeywell). Prior to these roles, Pajer held leadership positions with Marconi, FORE Systems, Compaq, and AT&T. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering and a Master of Science degree in management, both earned at Carnegie Mellon University. “We are delighted to have Joe at the helm of Seegrid,” said Steven F. Kaplan, Chairman of the Board. “I have worked with Joe for over a decade. He is a great fit for Seegrid. Not only is he a strong leader, but he is a Pittsburgh native, a CMU graduate, and an engineer. And he is a three-time winner as a CEO.” “I am very excited to be joining Seegrid at this time,” Pajer commented. “Seegrid’s innovative and proven solutions are already enabling a long list of blue-chip customers to achieve significant operational improvement and financial savings in their manufacturing and distribution operations. At the same time, Seegrid is expanding its technological leadership, enabling entry into exciting and very large new markets. I am looking forward to helping this world-class company achieve new heights.”
H&E opens new branch in Hollywood, FL
Effective September 21, 2022, H&E Equipment Services Inc. (H&E) announces the opening of its Hollywood rental branch, its 10th in the state of Florida. The branch is located at 2200 N. 30th Road, Hollywood, FL 33021-3737, phone 754-764-1200. It includes a fully fenced yard area, offices, and a separate repair shop and is capable of handling a variety of construction and general industrial equipment for customers in south Florida. “H&E has identified several locations to better serve its Florida customers and is expanding in the Sunshine State. Between our new Hollywood branch and our existing Pompano Beach facility, our company has the Atlantic coast covered down to Miami,” says Branch Manager Robert Monterrey, who has worked in the area for more than a dozen years. “The construction market in south Florida is healthy and growing, and we are well-positioned just off of I-95 and near other major thoroughfares for convenient, fast service to customers. With a 20-year track record in the state and one of the youngest fleets in the industry, we can deliver reliable equipment for any project in the area.” The Hollywood branch specializes in the rental of aerial lifts, telescopic forklifts, earthmoving machinery, compaction equipment, generators, compressors, and more and represents the following manufacturers: Allmand, Atlas Copco, Bomag, Case, Club Car, Cushman, Doosan, Gehl, Generac Mobile, Genie, Hilti, Husqvarna, JCB, JLG, John Deere, Kubota, LayMor, Ledwell, Lincoln Electric, Link-Belt Excavators, MEC, Miller, Multiquip, Polaris, Skyjack, SkyTrak, Sullair, Sullivan-Palatek, TAG, Taylor, Towmaster Trailers, Wacker Neuson, Yanmar, and others.
Steve Green to retire from Tubelite
Tubelite Inc.‘s Steve Green will retire as Vice President of Sales in March 2023 at the end of the company’s fiscal year. A search is underway and a successor will be announced in the coming months. Green has been a key part of Tubelite’s leadership team for more than 32 years, and his colleagues attribute much of the company’s success to his contributions. In his current role, Green oversees the sales and client service teams for Tubelite, as well as for two additional Apogee Enterprises businesses, Alumicor and Linetec. During his time with Tubelite, Green’s influence has extended well beyond the sales department. In 1990, he started with the company as a sales representative serving the Southeast. He subsequently held various titles, including owner and president, playing an integral part in strategic planning and business development. Tubelite’s president Jon Close remarked, “It is with mixed emotions I share Steve’s announcement to retire from his role as vice president of sales. This is a decision Steve has been considering for some time. After careful deliberation, he decided this is the right time for him to retire. While I am excited for Steve to enjoy his well-deserved retirement, I will greatly miss him and his wealth of Tubelite and industry knowledge.” “Steve hired me as Tubelite’s client services manager in 2006 and we have had a close working relationship ever since,” expressed Mary Avery, Tubelite’s vice president of marketing. “It has been incredible learning from his years of experience in the industry and being on the leadership team with him as the business substantially grew.” Walt Lutzke, another long-term key associate of Tubelite commented, “Steve’s commitment to Tubelite started in the worst of times and has lasted through the best of times. I have no doubt that the company’s current size and strength are a direct result of his leadership and effort. It’s been my privilege to work with Steve over that time.” Syracuse Glass’ prior president John Dwyer, representing one of many companies to have a long and successful relationship with Green and Tubelite, shared his congratulations and said, “Wow, What a remarkable career! You and the fantastic Tubelite team members have built an extraordinary organization. You all have accomplished so much over the many years we have worked together. It has been a sincere joy for me to witness the Tubelite success story. From all of us at Syracuse Glass, we wish you great things in your well-deserved retirement!” Green responded with gratitude for the many compliments and good wishes. He added, “I look forward to spending more time with family. We welcomed our first grandchild two months ago and our five children live in five different states. I also look forward to volunteering in our new home state of Florida.”
LiuGong North America adds Crouse Equipment to dealer lineup
LiuGong North America welcomes Crouse Equipment as a new construction equipment dealer. The Sheridan, Arkansas-based dealer is centrally located within the state. As a LiuGong construction equipment dealer, Crouse will sell both excavators and wheel loaders. Crouse Equipment President Dean Crouse has conducted due diligence over several months to gain more insight into LiuGong’s products, services, and support network. “I think it’s going to be a good move for both of us,” Crouse said. “It will let us be more diversified in different industries where we’ve struggled before.” Crouse hailed the direct relationship in working with LiuGong’s dealer support team as one of the key reasons for the new agreement. “They’ve been very open and forthcoming and answering any concerns or questions,” Crouse explained. “There’s a group here that is wanting to grow. They are open-minded and listen to and address concerns that their dealers have. And I really think that’s the direction they’re going to be headed.” Adding another dealer in this region continues to strengthen the LiuGong dealer network. “The further development of LiuGong’s dealer network is central to our growth strategy in North America,” said Andrew Ryan, President, LiuGong North America. “We believe LiuGong machines are some of the best available in our industry and we want great partners to represent and support them with our customers. We’re confident in the Crouse team and thrilled to have them as partners as we introduce our brand in Arkansas.” Crouse said the other major contributing factor for the new agreement was product and parts availability. With continued global supply chain constraints, ensuring there are enough machines present was key to the agreement. “If you can’t get the product, you can’t sell it,” Crouse said. “They’re very transparent about what they have, where they have them, and what’s coming down the pipeline.”
Plastics Industry Association participates in clean-up event with RiverLink at River Bend Park
Members of the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS), working in conjunction with RiverLink, an Asheville-based conservation organization, participated in a clean-up event at River Bend Park along the Swannanoa River. The event is a collaboration between RiverLink through the Community Impact Task Group of PLASTICS’ Future Leaders in Plastics Committee (FLiP)—a professional development initiative for plastics professionals under the age of 40. Flip’s mission is to foster collaboration, providing an outlet to give back and positively impact the environment and communities in which the plastics industry serves. “PLASTICS is here to demonstrate our commitment to the environment, promote the environmental benefits of using plastic responsibly, and encourage legislators to do all they can to fund recycling infrastructure that will help protect beautiful places like this,” said Leslie Jutte, PLASTICS staff liaison for FLiP and director of the association’s Material Suppliers Council. “We love plastic – we hate plastic waste.” Working with the RiverLink team and utilizing materials and equipment provided by the non-profit, approximately 50 PLASTICS’ members spent several hours removing litter in support of RiverLink’s goal of promoting the environmental and economic vitality of the French Broad River and surrounding waterways. “The plastics industry isn’t just companies, it’s people all over the country who care about the communities where we live and work,” said Jon Smalling, National Sales and Marketing Manager at BAUMÜLLER and member of the FLiP Community Impact Task Group. “It’s an honor for us to do some good for the local environment while we’re guests here in Asheville.” “As a local non-profit working for the past thirty years to promote the environmental and economic vitality of the French Broad River and its watershed, we’re grateful to work with a diverse group of volunteers each year on projects that benefit our waterways and public lands,” RiverLink said in a statement. “Removing litter from Riverbend Park along the Swannanoa River, one of the French Broad’s largest tributaries is one of many ways we can steward this special place and connect volunteers from groups like the Plastics Industry Association with the areas we care about.” The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is the only organization that supports the entire plastics supply chain, representing nearly one million workers in the $468 billion U.S. industry. Since 1937, PLASTICS has been working to make its members and the industry more globally competitive while advancing recycling and sustainability through education initiatives, industry-leading insights, and events, networking opportunities, and policy advocacy, including the largest plastics trade show in the Americas, NPE2024: The Plastics Show.
Marine Travelift appoints Minten Executive Vice President
The Marine Travelift/Shuttlelift/ExacTech, Inc. family of companies has announced the promotion of Kurt Minten to Executive Vice President of Marine Travelift. As the longest-tenured employee in Marine Travelift history, Kurt has many years of experience in all aspects of the business and has held positions in both engineering and sales leading up to this promotion. Kurt’s experience with Marine Travelift began even before he was an employee of the company. Early in the company’s history, engineering services were outsourced to a local company called RA Stearns, which is now known as Bay Engineering. Kurt worked as a drafter at Stearns and was assigned to the Marine Travelift product line in 1981. When Marine Travelift developed its internal engineering team in 1986, Kurt was hired as one of two people in the department, and he worked in that role until 2005. At that time there was an opening for a salesperson as the company was expanding its industrial division with the Shuttlelift Carrydeck and gantry crane lineup. The engineering department had grown significantly by this time and Kurt, with his extensive knowledge of the company and products, was an excellent choice to move into that sales role. Kurt was head of Carrydeck sales and was a major contributor to the success of that product line. He then grew into the Director of Shuttlelift Sales and eventually started handling contracts on the Marine Travelift side as well. Additionally, Kurt collaborated and supported various departments while in these positions with his natural ability to lead. He most recently held the position of Vice President of Sales on his way to this well-deserved promotion. To summarize: Kurt has devoted 36 years of his career to Marine Travelift and Shuttlelift, 41 years if you count his time drafting for Marine Travelift products while at RA Stearns. In his time with the company, he and his wife Carla raised two boys who are now married and have children of their own – making Kurt a grandpa of three. He is an avid soccer fan and coached his boys through their years in soccer and club sports. In his years at Marine Travelift, Kurt has traveled to many places around the world including Chile, Brazil, Singapore, Russia, England, Netherlands, and Denmark. Denmark stands out as one of his favorite places because of his Danish lineage and visiting the “homeland” was quite a memorable experience. “Anyone who has had the privilege of working with Kurt knows he is the epitome of a team player and is as professional as they come. He takes the time to talk and get to know everyone he comes across and leaves a lasting impression on customers and coworkers alike. We as a company are fortunate to have Kurt as a leader, coworker, friend, supporter, and more, and we look forward to having him in this new role for the years to come.” -Erich Pfeifer, president & CEO, Marine Travelift