The International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association Foundation awards five college scholarships to future transportation leaders
The International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA) Foundation – the educational and charitable arm of the worldwide association for the owners and operators of toll facilities and the businesses that serve them – announced the five college students who will receive scholarships designed to support and encourage future transportation leaders in their college studies. Selected from accredited educational institutions across the country, each student will receive a $5,000 scholarship to defray the costs of pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in a transportation-related field of study. One of the five scholarships was also allocated to a student attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). “We are thrilled to award these scholarships to these future leaders in transportation and mobility,” said Jim Wilson, Board Chair of the IBTTA Foundation and Senior Vice President at TransCore. “The scholarships represent the core of the IBTTA Foundation’s mission to advance programs that strengthen awareness of career opportunities and promote current and future leaders in mobility and transportation.” The 2022 IBTTA Foundation Scholarship Recipients are: Emily Mank from Preston, Md., studying for a master’s degree in civil engineering at Florida State University. Bryce Montgomery from Pacific Grove, Calif., studying for a bachelor’s degree in information technology at the University of California, Santa Cruz Jasmine Platt from Boise, Idaho, studying for a doctoral degree in public policy and administration at Boise State University. Patrice Sterling from Bluefield, W.V., studying for a bachelor’s degree in computer science at Bluefield State University. Min Joo Yoo from Los Angeles, Calif., studying for a bachelor’s degree in both aerospace engineering and accounting at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. “IBTTA recognizes the importance of supporting higher education and mentorship to strengthen our industry, which these scholarships represent,” said Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, Commissioner, New Jersey Department of Transportation and 2022 IBTTA President. “These scholarships also reflect our commitment to fostering diversity in the industry by encouraging and supporting students attending HBCUs.” The 2022 scholarship recipients will be recognized for their achievement during a special ceremony at IBTTA’s 90th Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Austin, TX on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022.
Timken teambuilding results in donation to the Ozarks Regional YMCA
Two key businesses within The Timken Company’s Industrial Motion group, belts and chains, gave back to the local community by preparing 40 solar car kits for donation to the Ozarks Regional YMCA. “Our company understands the importance and the significance of being a good corporate citizen,” said Matt Stoneburner, general sales manager – belts and chain. “We strive to make a positive impact in the local communities where our customers and employees work and live.” Timken partnered with Impact 4 Good, a company that focuses on teambuilding programs to give back to the community. For this event, Timken selected “Go GREEN Racing.” Go Green Racing focuses on the importance of youth learning about science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), and alternative energy from an early age. During a highly energized and competitive program, teams used creativity and ingenuity to build solar cars in preparation for an exciting tournament. The event also resulted in the donation of solar car classroom kits to the Ozarks Regional YMCA. These kits allowed youth members of the YMCA to be introduced to and learn about STEM education in a hands-on manner. Timken associates provided hand-written messages of encouragement with each solar kit to motivate and inspire the children. Children from the Ozarks Regional YMCA came to surprise the participants, complete a race and thank them for the generous donation. The Ozarks Regional YMCA was established in Springfield in 1888. Their association is made up of seven family centers. Their programs, services, and initiatives enable kids to realize their potential, prepare teens for college, offer ways for families to have fun together, empower people to be healthier in spirit, mind, and body, prepare people for employment, welcome and embrace newcomers and help foster a nationwide service ethic. Their after-school programs have an academic support piece that games in core areas of math, science, and literacy. “On behalf of the Ozarks Regional YMCA, I want to thank you for the donation of the 40 solar car kits and the opportunity for our students to participate in your event,” said Megan Outersky, executive director of school age services – Ozarks Regional YMCA. “This could be what grabs a child’s attention and leads them into a career of STEM…and possibly an engineer with Timken!” Following the event and donation of solar car kits, Timken will be donating an additional $2,500 to support the Ozarks Regional YMCA after-school programs and initiatives.
125 young people embark on careers with the KION Group
This year the intralogistics Group is offering career prospects in its 19 apprenticeships and 13 dual study programs Around 500 young people, including new starters, are currently undergoing training with German companies within the KION Group The early stages of the 2022 training program are all about team building The application and selection process for the 2023 training year is already underway This summer 125 young people will get their first taste of working life with German companies within the KION Group. 110 of them are embarking on training programs across 19 different professions, while 15 people will complete dual studies in one of the 13 study programs on offer. The KION Group—including its brands Linde Material Handling, STILL, and Dematic as well as KION Group IT—currently employs a total of around 500 trainees and students. “With its portfolio of strong brands, the KION Group is an attractive employer for young people starting out in their careers. Training these youngsters is one of our top priorities,” says Bernhard Just, Executive Vice President of Human Resources KION GROUP AG. “Both sides reap the rewards long term: Apprentices and students receive high-level training, while the company secures talent for the future. This is particularly important for our competitiveness.” Team-Building Trip to Austria From industrial mechanics and technical model makers to production engineers, all training programs related to system solutions, forklift trucks, and warehouse handling equipment are run by Linde Material Handling. “In cooperation with Linde Hydraulics, we have 58 junior employees starting here: 29 apprentices in industrial-technical professions (a further eight at Linde Hydraulics), nine aspiring managers, and three people at KION Group IT. There are also nine students on a dual study program,” says Christopher Klix, Training Manager at Linde MH in Aschaffenburg. “All trainees will be taken on for at least a year after the end of their training program.” September 1, 2022, will see trainees and students congregate in Aschaffenburg, where they will be welcomed by both company representatives and the works council. Afterward, trainees will get the opportunity to meet their trainers. In addition, there will be tours of the plant for newcomers to get better acquainted with the Linde MH headquarters and familiarize themselves with their working environment. After this settling-in period, trainees and students will have the opportunity to take part in a very special team-building exercise, as they head off to Kleinwalsertal in Austria for a week of experiential education. A Forklift Construction Workshop for the Future Experts STILL has won multiple accolades in recent years for its excellent training program. Trainees are closely supervised from the very beginning to ensure they get off to a flying start. In 2022, a total of 64 trainees and students are embarking on careers at STILL: In Hamburg, there are 35 junior employees (29 trainees and six students on dual study programs), including 23 in technical professions, four warehouse logistics specialists, and two industrial clerks. In the branch offices, there are 29 new starters, made up of 24 mechatronics engineers and five industrial clerks. The onboarding process for trainees and students takes place over three stages in 2022, kicking off with joint team days. “On September 1, all trainees in Germany will be welcomed together. The event will also be broadcast live throughout the branches,” says Jan Wehlen, Training Manager at STILL’s site in Hamburg. “The day will finish with a communal barbecue.” The following two days are dedicated to team building and initial technical training. “People are especially looking forward to the forklift construction workshop,” adds Wehlen. In early October, all the trainees will spend a week working together in mixed groups, focusing on the forklift truck as a product and on interacting as a team. To round off the training, they are tasked with leading a presentation on everything they have learned. STILL also boasts an impressive retention rate: “Out of 36 trainees and students, 35 were offered employment and one was enrolled on a dual study program—so our quota for 2022 is almost 100%,” says Wehlen. Applications for 2023 The application and selection process for the 2023 training year is already underway. More information on training, dual study programs, and career opportunities at a leading intralogistics provider can be found on the KION Group website or on the career portal of our subsidiaries, Linde Material Handling, STILL, and Dematic. https://www.kiongroup.com/en/Careers/Apprenticeships/ https://www.linde-mh.de/de/Ueber-uns/Arbeiten-bei-Linde/Ausbildung/ https://www.still.de/en-DE/job-career/training-integrated-degree-program/your-training-program-at-still.html https://www.dematic.com/de-de/ueber/karriere/
Women In Trucking Association announces continued Gold Partnership with WM
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) announced today that WM has continued its Gold Level partnership, offering vital support to the nonprofit association and its mission to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments and minimize the obstacles they face. In addition to providing financial support, the company actively participates in the association. WM’s Kelly Rooney, senior vice president, and chief people officer, serves on the WIT board of directors as vice chair. “We are pleased to continue our partnership with the Women In Trucking Association and support its mission,” said Rooney. “At WM, our goal is to lead the industry in female representation at all levels of our organization and our work with Women In Trucking provides opportunities for us to better inform our own workplace strategies and participate in advocating for women across the transportation sector.” “As an influential industry leader, WM’s commitment to inclusion, equity, and diversity in combination with Rooney’s expertise and leadership makes them a valuable asset to our association,” said Ellen Voie, WIT president and CEO. “We look forward to our continued partnership to further support women in all roles within the transportation and logistics industry.” Founded in 2007, the Women In Trucking Association is a resource for more than 7,000 corporate and individual members located in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as Japan, Australia, Sweden, South Africa, and New Zealand. Recent accomplishments include releasing the 2022 WIT Index, the official barometer to benchmark and measure the percentage of women who make up critical roles in transportation each year, finding professional female drivers increased to 13.7%; participating in White House and FMCSA roundtables and events; launching its Professional Driver Hub, an online resource to encourage driver success; and more than 800 registered attendees at the 2021 Accelerate! Conference and Exhibition.
Flow-Rite honored again
The National Association for Business Resources (NABR) announced Flow-Rite Controls‘ (FRC) inclusion in its prestigious West Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® award program. The honor recognizes organizations for excellence in human resource and employee enrichment practices. “We’re deeply honored to be included once again,” said Todd Hart, FRC president. “Our employees are the bedrock of our success and the beating heart of our business. The credit belongs to our staff for embodying the core values which made the last six years of inclusion on this list possible. Through our combined efforts, we hope to continue our relationship with the Best & Brightest program and ensure FRC remains a wonderful place to work, from top to bottom.” All Best & Brightest companies are rated across multiple categories such as communications, work-life balance, employee education, diversity, recognition, and retention. Members of the program are identified as premiere employers in their region; inclusion in this list will bolster FRC’s recruitment and retainment efforts. Past and present awardees include renowned organizations such as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Buist Electric, Consumers Credit Union, Dematic, Michigan State University Credit Union, and the University of Michigan Health-West. Flow-Rite Controls is a vertically integrated plastics engineering company that designs and manufactures a wide range of fluid control and IoT devices. Its single-point lead-acid battery watering systems have become OEM standard in multiple applications while its marine plumbing systems are used by over 40 boat OEMs. Its indoor agricultural division is creating a better way to grow. Flow-Rite remains dedicated to sustainability and has adopted green production processes and materials wherever possible.
Trew announces new President and COO
Trew, a North American material handling solutions provider for integrators and end-users announces the appointment of Alfred (Al) Rebello as the president and Chief Operating Officer. Al is a 30-year industry veteran providing customer-focused organizational leadership and proven success delivering highly integrated Automation Systems. Before joining Trew, Al was the Business Operations Leader for Honeywell Intelligrated responsible for the delivery of the solutions from presales to installation. Previously he was the Senior Vice President of Operations with Intelligrated when acquired by Honeywell. Al is a graduate of the Harvard Business School General Management Program. “Trew is an exciting organization with a lot of growth opportunities in front of us,” says Al Rebello. “We have a talented organization and a culture commitment to delivering great solutions.” “Alfred is a hands-on leader that brings entrepreneurial insights and knows how to execute at a high level,” says Mark Tefend, CEO. “I have known Alfred for well over twenty years. Alfred’s teams come to work. He drives commitment at every level, finding creative ways to solve challenges, making continuous improvements, and emphasizes ownership, teamwork, and process rigor.” “Al’s well-rounded experience and a drive for delivering superior solutions will help broaden our client base and propel Trew’s growth,” Mark Tefend continued.
NAW hires International Business Strategist and Association thought leader Dianna Steinbach as Chief Strategy Officer
Steinbach will lead operational and business strategy for NAW and their membership The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), which represents the $7.4 trillion wholesale-distribution industry, has hired international business strategist and trade association leader Dianna Steinbach as Chief Strategy Officer. Steinbach, who started on August 15, 2022, is an organizational, industry, and strategy expert, with more than 25 years of experience helping trade associations and business owners identify new trends, strategically plan, develop business alliances, and connect with customers and position themselves for success. “We are thrilled to welcome Dianna to the NAW executive team. She is mission-focused and brings incredible talent, experience, and foresight to our organization,” said NAW CEO Eric Hoplin. “Dianna will deepen our relationship with our members and help us lead in industry excellence and strategic growth,” concluded NAW CEO Eric Hoplin. “Building a roadmap of success for NAW and our members is my top priority,” said Dianna Steinbach, chief strategy officer, at NAW. “Together we will deliver world-class programming, advocacy, and innovation offerings and help our members to lead, disrupt and advance the next frontier in wholesale-distribution.” Steinbach brings extensive experience managing international associations as well as for-profit industry and event entities. Her background includes membership, operations, and events in the US, Africa, Australia, Canada, China, India, Italy, Mexico, Poland, Spain, Thailand, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Most recently she was Vice President of International Services for ISSA – The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association. While at ISSA, Steinbach regularly worked with distributors, wholesalers, and manufacturers to strengthen sales, maintain innovative operations, and drive strategic supply-chain and customer relationships. Steinbach began her career as a business journalist with the Associated Press as well as being an editor for Sanitary Maintenance magazine, which focused on the needs of distributors operating in the commercial cleaning industry. She is the Programming Chair and Board member for the European Society of Association Executives (ESAE). She also is a faculty member for the Membership Marketing School, author of the International Congress and Conventions Association (ICCA) certification chapter on Quality Assurance, and a past member of the IBTM World Association Leaders Forum Advisory Board. Steinbach regularly speaks and writes about association management topics, including for groups such as the American Society for Association Executives, ESAE, ICCA, Dubai Association Forum, UFI Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, IMEX Association Focus Conference, and more. NAW is the “national voice of wholesale distribution,” an association comprised of employers of all sizes and national, regional, state, and local line of trade associations spanning the 7.4 trillion wholesale distribution industry, that employs more than 5 million workers in the United States. There are approximately 35,000 enterprises with almost 150,000 places of business in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, that are affiliated with NAW.
Schneider’s KayLeigh McCall selected as Women In Trucking’s Driver Ambassador
As a Driver Ambassador, McCall will raise awareness for Women In Trucking Association’s mission and promote women in the industry Schneider, a premier multimodal provider of transportation, intermodal and logistics services, is excited to share that KayLeigh McCall, driver and training engineer at Schneider, has been selected as the Women in Trucking Association’s (WIT) newest Driver Ambassador. WIT is a non-profit organization with a mission to encourage employment, address obstacles and celebrate the successes of women in the trucking industry. “Being selected as Schneider’s Women in Trucking ambassador provides an opportunity for me to spread the message that women can and will continue to be successful in the industry,” said McCall. “I’m honored to serve in this role to emphasize that it is possible for all generations of women – new to this profession, and those who have been in the industry for a while, mothers, wives, caretakers – to acquire the hard-earned skills necessary and lead a fulfilling career in trucking.” In her ambassador role, McCall will lead and organize efforts to empower and connect women across the trucking industry, as well as assist in developing and sharing various resources available including career services, mentorship, training, and scholarships. “We are thrilled to have KayLeigh McCall as our new Driver Ambassador,” said WIT’s President and Chief Executive Officer Ellen Voie. “Not only will she represent WIT and Schneider, but she will also be a visible spokeswoman for all female professional drivers today and in the future.” “KayLeigh is a phenomenal example of what we strive for every day here at Schneider – fostering an environment where our associates can develop their unlimited potential and make a real difference for themselves, our customers and for the betterment of the industry as a whole,” says Schneider President and CEO Mark Rourke. “We’re so proud of KayLeigh and look forward to seeing all she accomplishes as WIT’s Driver Ambassador.” Previously, McCall worked as a pastry chef, earning her Class A CDL in 2017 and driving a mixer truck for a construction company before joining Schneider in 2020. McCall discovered a passion for truck driving and feels empowered in her role as a woman driver and trainer. “For those looking to join the industry, my best piece of advice is to just do it, you won’t know until you try,” says McCall. “Schneider has provided an inclusive culture and platform of growth for my career, and I look forward to sharing my knowledge and empowering other women to join me.” In addition to her roles and responsibilities at Schneider and as WIT’s Driver Ambassador, McCall is a wife and mother of four. She brings tenacity, resiliency, and passion to her job every day, making her an asset to the Schneider team. To learn more about how Schneider elevates women in the industry, visit: https://schneider.com/company/corporate-responsibility/diversity-equity-inclusion To learn more about KayLeigh McCall visit: https://schneiderjobs.com/blog/2021-featured-female-truck-driver
TA Services named ‘Great Supply Chain Partner’
TA Services, a full-service 3PL (third-party logistics) provider, has announced that it has been included in SupplyChainBrain‘s list of 100 Great Supply Chain Partners. For two decades this award has recognized customer-nominated companies that show a dedication to providing outstanding solutions and services. “In a year that has proven to have ups and downs for many companies’ supply chains, our team has worked tirelessly to help our customers overcome shipping obstacles and deliver stability to their shipping needs. I’m thankful for the stellar TA Services team who continuously provides excellent customer service,” said Scott Schell, president and CEO of TA Services. “It’s always exciting to be recognized for the hard work and dedication that we provide our customers.” With over 36 years of industry experience, TA Services offers a wide variety of domestic and international transportation management and modes including dry van, truckload, flatbed, heavy haul, expedited, refrigerated, and less-than-truckload (LTL). Just this year, TA Services streamlined communication touchpoints and simplified orders between businesses and shippers by implementing their Supplier Portal, which calculates pricing models for shippers, earning Director of Cross-Border Logistics, Andrew Welling, the recognition of being named Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2022 Pros to Know List. Additionally, this year, TA Services acquired Alabama-based C2 Freight Resources to expand brokerage services as well as open a new cross-docking facility in Laredo, Texas. TA Services was also named to Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2022 Top Supply Chain Projects for TA Services’ overseeing of transportation management for a Memphis-based construction project that required specialized services other than just mill-to-mill operations. “Our six-month online poll of supply chain professionals requires a qualified response, asking them to nominate vendors and service providers whose solutions have made a significant impact on their company’s efficiency, customer service, and overall supply chain performance,” said Brad Berger, Publisher, SupplyChainBrain. “This year’s field of nominees was highly competitive and overall excellent – coming from all sectors of supply chain management. TA Services will appear in the 2022 August issue of SupplyChainBrain magazine and on SupplyChainBrain.com as an honored member of this year’s 100 Great Supply Chain Partners.”
Twin Disc appoints Kevin Olsen to its Board of Directors
Twin Disc, Inc. a global provider of power transmission technology for marine, land-based, and oil & gas applications, has appointed Kevin Olsen to its Board of Directors. Mr. Olsen is currently the President and Chief Executive Officer of Dorman Products, Inc. and also serves as a member of Dorman’s Board of Directors. Mr. Olsen previously served as Dorman’s Chief Financial Officer from 2016 to 2018. Dorman Products, Inc. is a leading supplier of replacement parts and fasteners for passenger cars and light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles in the motor vehicle aftermarket industry. Prior to Dorman, Mr. Olsen held a variety of senior leadership positions at companies such as Colfax, Crane Co., Netshape Technologies, Inc., and Danaher Corporation. Prior thereto, Mr. Olsen performed public accounting work at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. “We are pleased to welcome Kevin to our Board of Directors and are confident that his background and experience will benefit Twin Disc and its shareholders,” said John H. Batten, Chief Executive Officer. “His experience in executive leadership and financial management with large organizations will be a tremendous asset for Twin Disc.”
Flight Systems Industrial Products readies for electrification expansion
FSIP, (Flight Systems Industrial Products), a provider in manufacturing, remanufacturing, distribution, and electrical system design for the electric vehicle industry, announces the expansion of the Motive Power Sales Team. They welcome Garrett Hirst and Michael Berube to their FSIP Team. FSIP aims to be the go-to charging solution provider for the Electric Battery Vehicle and equipment markets. As part of the Motive Power Sales Team, Garrett and Michael will consult, educate, and bring charging and regeneration solutions to North America. They will create deeper customer relationships, provide greater service levels, and improve responsiveness, keeping our customers at the heart of our business. “We are very excited to bring Michael and Garrett into one of the fastest growing areas of our business. As the electrification market grows, battery technology changes, and electric vehicle usage increases; the Motive Power Team will be vital in supporting our customers’ needs,” stated Ben Richwine, Director of Sales. FSIP is focused on the future and the growth of EV markets.
Brown and Caldwell announce new COO
Euan Finlay brings 25 years of driving operational excellence Brown and Caldwell just announced that Euan Finlay has been promoted from senior vice president to chief operating officer (COO), effective immediately. A senior executive with 25 years of experience, Finlay excels in leading organizations and teams to deliver excellence to clients while driving sustainable growth. Throughout his career, he has held executive roles in operations, design, and construction businesses in numerous international locations focused on developing client solutions for environmental, water, and wastewater infrastructure. He has led multi-million-dollar businesses, managed company-wide project delivery, and directed mergers and acquisitions as a Fortune 500 company executive. Before joining the firm in 2019 as director of business transformation, Finlay was an operations executive for a leading provider of design, design/build, and program management services. Brown and Caldwell CEO Rich D’Amato commented on the promotion, “Euan has a strong track record of challenging organizations to achieve their potential,” he said. “As Brown and Caldwell continues to evolve and grow, Euan’s operations expertise will be a key driver in building our future success to better serve clients, recruit and retain top talent, and positively impact our communities.” As COO, Denver-based Finlay will interface with the firm’s leadership to ensure strategic and technical objectives translate to operational capabilities aligned with business targets. Furthermore, he will play a key role in ensuring cultural imperatives are communicated and supported operationally throughout the 1,800 employee-owned company.
ARA adds to leadership team focused on Rental Workforce Development initiatives
The American Rental Association (ARA) announces Erika Singleton as the association’s new Workforce Development Manager. With a background in human resources management, employee training, and program marketing, her role will work to address the industry labor shortage by promoting rental as a career. “We’re elated to have Singleton on board,” said Tony Conant, ARA CEO. “She’s the perfect fit to support our current and future workplace initiatives due to her extensive experience and her proven success in driving new strategies and solutions forward.” The current ARA workplace initiatives include an industry job portal, best practices documents, customizable job description templates, employee recruitment videos, and an employee recruitment website — exclusively available for ARA member access. Singleton will also serve as a resource on additional topics, such as the following: Rental industry public speaking – Tips for speaking at colleges, trade shows, career fairs, and more. Attending career and job fairs – Advice on how to best promote rental careers among various audiences. Workforce solutions – Guidance and resources for attracting quality candidates for rental industry careers and temporary employment opportunities. Alternative funding programs – Understanding special grants, funding, and local and state programs available for employers to use. “Adding Erika to our team will enhance current workplace initiatives,” said James Auerbach, ARA’s Vice President for the Event Segment and Rental Industry Workforce Development department. “She is focused on continuing to expand her knowledge and putting her expertise into practice in her role with ARA.”
Automation Industry veteran Scott Kilpatrick joins AMT as Vice President of Sales
Applied Manufacturing Technologies brings Scott Kilpatrick on as vice president of sales in a strategic hire to support an increase in demand for the company’s end-of-line solutions, advanced material handling, and engineering services offerings Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT), North America’s largest independent automation engineering company supporting warehousing and logistics, robot companies, system integrators, line builders, and users of robotic automation worldwide, has announced the strategic hire of Scott Kilpatrick as vice president of sales. Working together with Chief Operating Officer Craig Salvalaggio, Kilpatrick will focus on growing and leading the AMT sales team, developing engineers and sales personnel to lead fulfilling professional lives in an environment of advancing high performers. “Scott provides the industry knowledge and insight to help navigate strategic accounts and lead overall sales for AMT. He’s a natural sales professional with credibility in all aspects of his career,” said Salvalaggio. “Scott has joined AMT to help build the next generation of our customer-facing team through mentorship and guidance; culture is very important to AMT and our leadership team. The combination of hiring smart, hungry, and humble people into all aspects of AMT is a core competency that keeps our culture strong. Scott possesses the character traits that we uphold in our industry and the core values of AMT: integrity, respect, excellence in reputation, and support of our team members.” Beginning his career as a process engineer, Kilpatrick came up through the ranks in industrial automation, bringing nearly 30 years of experience to his position as vice president of sales at AMT. Having previously held positions at several prominent automation firms, Kilpatrick was most recently the vice president of global business development at Acme Manufacturing, where he expanded the company’s footprint in the U.S., Singapore, and Southeast Asia. He also expanded their product offering in complex robotic applications, including adaptive robotic solutions, in the aerospace industry and others around the world. A FANUC Authorized System Integrator and three-time winner of the FANUC Sales Growth Award, AMT offers full-service systems integration, specializing in end-of-line solutions, complex material handling systems, and engineering support such as turnkey industrial controls, robotic programming, and automation consulting. Bringing together best-in-class technologies and custom automation, AMT provides high-quality, cost-effective automation solutions. The company’s solutions have benefited manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, medical, alternative energy, fabricated metal, industrial machinery, rubber and plastics, food and beverage, and many other industries.
PTDA welcomes new member MEM Industrial, LLC
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA), an association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel, welcomes a new member company. MEM Industrial, LLC (Wichita, Kan.) began in 2003 as a rebuild shop for electric motors, gearboxes, and pumps. In 2015, the company opened a parts side–Midwest Industrial Supplies. Following the 2019 merger of the two ventures, MEM Industrial LLC was formed. Today, MEM is the largest U.S. motor stocking distributor in the state of Kansas. MEM is a distributor of variable speed drives, bearings, belts & chains, conveyors & material handling components, shaft couplings & u-joints, gearings, motors, industrial specialty chemicals, linear motion components, pumps, and accessories. “We felt joining PTDA was a must to let people know we’re part of the best out there, and it never hurts to network,” says Scott Arnold, general manager. The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) is the leading 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.
AutoScheduler.AI names Keith Moore as CEO
AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Management System (WMS) accelerator, names Keith Moore as CEO with Tom Moore, Founder, moving to the Board of Directors. AutoScheduler has also added Lori Stoia, a seasoned marketing professional, as the new Director of Marketing to evangelize their rapidly-growing market presence. “These executive changes reflect the growth that AutoScheduler has experienced recently and will further position the company for continued growth and success,” says Jeff Potts, Chief Revenue Officer at AutoScheduler.AI. “All of these executives are trailblazers in their respective fields and bring impressive leadership and strategic skills to their new positions.” Keith Moore was previously the Chief Product Officer at AutoScheduler. As CEO, he takes on additional responsibilities and will manage AutoScheduler’s overall operations, including driving profitability, managing organizational structure, strategy, and communicating with the board. Keith will continue to drive product direction and vision, leveraging his knowledge of the warehousing industry and deep technology competencies to drive value in AutoScheduler’s offerings, taking the business to the next level. Keith is well-recognized in the market as a thought leader, entrepreneur, and visionary. He is also the Founder of ProvisionAI and previously led product management at SparkCognition. Thomas A. Moore is the Founder of AutoScheduler.AI, CEO of T|WO, and a Partner at ProvisionAI, and will now move to AutoScheduler’s Board as Chairman. Tom founded all three of these businesses, focusing on applying optimization software to transportation and warehouse operations to increase efficiencies and lower costs. Most recently, ProvisionAI and Kimberly-Clark’s Project EARL was recognized as a CSCMP Innovation Award Finalist for solving costly transportation volatility challenges. Lori Stoia joins AutoScheduler.AI as the Director of Marketing where she will leverage her deep domain expertise for demand generation, awareness and building thought leadership for the company.
RP System® from Mitsubishi Gas Chemical wins Prestigious 2022 AmeriStar Award
Innovative Packaging Technology is recognized for its superior protection; Keeps critical components safe during shipping and storage RP System from Mitsubishi Gas Chemical America (MGCA) has won a 2022 AmeriStar Award from The Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP). RP System is the only packaging solution that combines protection from both oxygen and moisture and allows auto parts, electronics, and industrial components to be shipped safely and stored for years in pristine condition. RP System was selected by IoPP for the best industrial/commercial product – this is the first time MGCA has been selected for the award. The achievement underscores MGCA’s commitment to quality and RP System’s unique promise to provide value and protection to their customers’ products. IoPP’s AmeriStar program is one of the industry’s oldest and most prestigious packaging design competitions. IoPP is dedicated to the growth of the packaging industry, and the AmeriStar program highlights some of the best and most innovative packaging designs in the industry. The awards program drew impressive submission numbers, with entrants from global companies such as General Mills, McCormick & Company, Inc., and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical America. Judges from various segments of the packaging industry chose 21 recipients based on economics, environmental impact, innovation, marketing, package performance, and product protection. “We are honored that RP System has been recognized with an AmeriStar Award by the Institute of Packaging Professionals,” said Sean Hael, Sales and Marketing General Manager at Mitsubishi Gas Chemical America. “RP System is a unique packaging technology that truly supports the needs and desires of component manufacturers in the automotive, electronics, and industrial markets. By extending the shelf life and preserving their most sensitive components, we can help lessen the impact that supply chain issues have had on the global economy, which has led to widespread consumer product shortages.” Manufactured in Japan and introduced for the first time to North America in 2021, RP System protects a variety of components from oxidation and corrosion. RP System uses a gas barrier bag that withstands oxygen and moisture penetration and a customed RP agent composed of oxygen- and moisture-absorbing compounds. Once sealed properly, RP System provides a protected environment for automotive, electronic, and industrial parts to be shipped safely and stored long-term. Critical components such as semiconductors, circuit boards, bearings, and other industrial machine parts are kept secure in the same mint condition as when they were first manufactured. RP System also supports manufacturers in achieving their sustainability goals by enabling fewer large-scale factory runs, which can improve efficiency and reduce overhead energy expenditure and operating costs. Products using an RP agent can help mitigate waste, lessening the impact on landfills and reducing environmental pollution. RP System, along with the other AmeriStar Award recipients, will be featured at the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI) Showcase of Packaging Innovation showroom at PACK Expo International, Oct. 23-26, in Chicago.
The Manitowoc Company appoints Jennifer L. Peterson as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
The Manitowoc Company, Inc., a global manufacturer of cranes and lifting solutions, today announced that Jennifer L. Peterson, currently the Company’s Interim General Counsel and Assistant Secretary, has been appointed Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary effective immediately. “I am excited to have Jennifer take this key role for Manitowoc. I’ve worked closely with Jennifer for over four years, and her leadership and experience in leading the increasing demands from stakeholders on global legal, risk, and compliance programs makes her the ideal person to ensure our Company is positioned for long-term success in these areas,” commented Aaron H. Ravenscroft, President and Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Peterson joins the executive leadership team with more than 20 years of legal experience from both in-house and private practice. Prior to her appointment, Ms. Peterson served as Manitowoc’s Interim General Counsel and Assistant Secretary since May 2022, Vice President and Associate General Counsel since April 2021, and Associate General Counsel – Litigation and Product Safety since January 2018. She previously held in-house positions at Adient plc, Johnson Controls, and Journal Communications, Inc. Ms. Peterson has a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School and a B.A. in Public Communications from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire.
Duravant welcomes new Senior VP and General Counsel
Duravant welcomes Chad E. Walker to the position of Senior Vice President and General Counsel. In this role, Walker will drive Duravant’s global legal strategy, deploy processes to ensure legal compliance, and work with the organization’s leadership teams to propose and drive initiatives to propel the Company forward. Among his initial priorities, Walker will work to develop a more structured framework for advancing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives across the Company. He will also serve as Secretary for the Board of Directors and Chief Compliance Officer. “As our business has grown in size and complexity, it is necessary to add this critical role to our Executive Leadership Team. Chad’s broad experience in corporate law makes him ideally suited to drive compliance, new initiatives, and focus on strategy across the Duravant family,” said Mike Kachmer, president, and CEO of Duravant. Walker brings over 20 years of diverse legal experience from both private and public companies. Most recently, he was the General Counsel, Corporate Secretary, and Chief Compliance Officer for Morton Salt, Inc., the North American leader in the production of salt for culinary, household, food processing, chemical, pharmaceutical, and numerous other industrial uses. “I am thrilled to be joining Duravant and leading its legal strategy. I look forward to working with all our operating companies that are leading engineered equipment providers in the food processing, packaging, and material handling markets,” said Walker. “The opportunity to build a global ESG program and oversee corporate compliance for Duravant as the organization is rapidly growing and expanding in new and emerging markets is particularly exciting.” Prior to his role at Morton Salt, Walker was Assistant U.S. General Counsel for McDonald’s Corporation, one of the world’s leading food service brands. Walker’s previous experience also includes time as the Deputy General Counsel for the State of Illinois Department of Central Management Services, and as an attorney for Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr (formerly Arnstein & Lehr) and subsequently Michael Best & Friedrich LLC. Walker holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Louisville in Louisville, KY, and a JD from the University of Wisconsin Law School in Madison, WI. He will be based in the Duravant corporate office in Downers Grove, IL.
Motion promotes Solomon to Senior VP-Corporate Accounts
Motion Industries, Inc., a distributor of maintenance, repair, and operation replacement parts, and a premier provider of industrial technology solutions, is pleased to announce that Lisa Solomon has been promoted to Senior Vice President – Corporate Accounts. Ms. Solomon joined the Company in 2015 as a Business Development Manager focused on an automotive industry account, before transitioning the same year into an Automotive Specialist role concentrating on a different automotive account. In 2016, she expanded her role to a Corporate Accounts Manager overseeing the entire automotive segment. In 2021, Ms. Solomon was promoted to Area Vice President – Corporate Accounts, leading a team of 16 sales professionals in the Central Group. In her new role, Ms. Solomon will lead all of Motion’s Corporate Accounts in North America, plus other Company teams, including the Corporate Accounts Support group, Corporate Accounts Development, P2 MRO, Onsite Solutions, Energy Services, and International Sales. She will report directly to James Howe, Executive Vice President – eCommerce, Sales Excellence, Strategic Pricing, and Corporate Accounts. “Lisa has been very successful in the Area Vice President role and has emerged as a peer leader for our AVPs across North America,” said Mr. Howe. “Her leadership and significant experience will further strengthen Corporate Accounts and maximize growth potential. She is well-deserving of her new and expanded position.” Motion’s President, Randy Breaux, said, “Lisa is a talented executive with a wealth of experience and drive. We’re excited to see her lead Motion’s Corporate Accounts to new heights.” Originally from Michigan, Ms. Solomon graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Broadcasting, Communications and Marketing.