Raymond selected as finalist for IndustryWeek’s 2022 Best Plants award
IndustryWeek has selected The Raymond Corporation’s Greene, New York, manufacturing facility as a finalist for the 2022 Best Plants Award. The facility was selected as a finalist due to Raymond’s robust continuous improvement program and efforts to increase efficiency. Among the achievements recognized by IndustryWeek are the facility’s warehouse optimization and continuous drive toward long-term excellence. In 2006, Raymond began implementing lean management processes through the Toyota Production System (TPS), which has helped standardize processes, visualize improvements and increase efficiency. In addition to lean management techniques, this plant has implemented key initiatives, including defect reduction, visual management, and quality circle activities, to help double production volume over the course of the past three years. The selection process for the annual competition includes a detailed assessment of the plant’s operations and an in-person evaluation from an IndustryWeek editor. The Best Plants program’s goal is to encourage other manufacturing teams to adopt world-class practices, technologies, and improvement strategies, as well as increase customer satisfaction and offer rewarding work environments for employees. Winners will be announced later this year and featured in the print and digital edition of IndustryWeek.
Rojas Heavy Equipment joins LiuGong North America dealer lineup
The LiuGong North America team welcomed a new dealer in its home state, with the addition of Rojas Heavy Equipment to its dealer lineup selling construction equipment. Covering the southern coastal markets of Texas, Rojas Heavy Equipment has several locations throughout the area. The dealer headquarters are in Alamo, Texas with additional branches in Laredo and Brownsville. Rojas will look to expand within the San Antonio and Corpus Christi markets as well. Rojas Heavy Equipment has a range of excavators, wheel loaders, and Dressta dozers within its fleet. The company is also working on upgrading or constructing new facilities within the region for its branches, including relaunching its dealership in South Texas. Founded in 2008 and nearing 15 years as a company, Rojas Heavy Equipment has made significant strides as a business, evolving from sales only to adding rental equipment, and later rental retail. With the Rojas headquarters in Alamo located five hours south of LiuGong’s North American headquarters in Katy, Texas, there is a natural connection. “The relationship is going great, as we’re working hand-in-hand to grow together,” said Efrain Rojas, president and GM, Rojas Heavy Equipment. “We’ve gotten really good feedback on our equipment from the customers, and the LiuGong team treats us so well.” “Rojas Heavy Equipment has had an impressive first few months joining the LiuGong family,” said LiuGong North America president Andrew Ryan. “Rojas has shown a clear focus and service on the South Texas region and is committed to growth and serving customers throughout the southern coastal markets.”
Two safety experts honored as ASSP Fellows
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), the world’s oldest professional safety organization, is bestowing the honor of Fellow on two longtime members who have made significant contributions to the occupational safety and health profession. Joel Haight and Pam Walaski are the 2022 recipients of the Society’s highest honor. “ASSP Fellows are influential leaders in safety and have played key roles in improving workplace environments as well as the profession itself,” said ASSP President Brad Giles, P.E., CSP, STS, FASSP, GIOSH. “The career accomplishments of Joel and Pam in helping to prevent injuries, illnesses, and fatalities are a true inspiration.” Joel Haight, Ph.D., P.E., CSP, CIH, FASSP, is a professor of industrial engineering at the University of Pittsburgh, where he conducts research on topics such as human factors engineering, biomechanics, and safety engineering. He has been an ASSP member since 1985 and served on the Society’s Board of Directors from 2018-21. Haight has published more than 70 peer-reviewed scientific journal articles, book chapters, and proceedings papers. “Joel has contributed significantly to the evidence-based body of knowledge for the safety profession, evident through peer-reviewed published works and conference presentations conducted around the world,” said Kathy Seabrook, CSP, CFIOSH, EurOSHM, FASSP, past Society president. “One of his greatest accomplishments is bridging the gap between the disciplines of business, management, engineering, and workplace safety and health.” Haight is editor of three editions of “The Safety Professionals Handbook,” a key resource for practicing safety professionals. He mentors students and helps them enter the workforce through his professional collaborations in many industries. Haight also provides consultation and training to businesses on process safety management, root-cause analysis, and human factors engineering. His work has led to thousands of people being safer on the job. Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP, is the senior program director for Specialty Technical Consultants Inc. and an adjunct faculty member for the Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) Safety Sciences Department. She will become ASSP’s senior vice president on the Board of Directors on July 1, serving as the Society’s president from 2024-25. Walaski is a published author and widely respected speaker and safety trainer who has been an ASSP member since 2003. “Pam is a national expert in risk management, and her contributions to the field are exceptional,” said Dr. Tracey Cekada, CSP, professor and chair of the IUP Safety Sciences Department. “Pam has made a positive impact on more than 200 students in the classroom who will become the safety professionals of tomorrow. Her class is demanding, but students rate her as excellent and say her real-life examples significantly help their learning.” Walaski is a driving force behind the expansion of the safety profession. She helped build a donation to the ASSP Foundation that exceeded $55,000 for recurring student scholarships through the Western Pennsylvania Chapter. Her trip to China in 2010 brought new colleagues into the Society while growing its diversity. And as an early adopter of social media, Walaski uses the platforms to broadly promote occupational safety and health careers. The new Fellows will be honored at ASSP’s Safety 2022 Professional Development Conference and Exposition, held June 27-29 in Chicago. The global event will bring together thousands of safety professionals to learn about best practices, industry trends, and the latest product innovations in the occupational safety and health field. The honor of Fellow recognizes an ASSP member’s lifetime commitment, achievement, and leadership in occupational safety and health. Nominees must have a history of major contributions to the profession for at least 15 years. To see the Society’s list of Fellows dating back more than 50 years, visit ASSP Fellow recipients.
Myers Industries announce CFO transition plan
Myers Industries, Inc. has announced the upcoming departure of Sonal Robinson, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Ms. Robinson joined the Company in February 2021, was appointed Chief Financial Officer effective March 15, 2021, and has resigned to pursue other opportunities. To support a smooth transition, Ms. Robinson will continue in her role at Myers until July 1, 2022. Monica Vinay, Vice President, Investor Relations and Treasurer, has been named Interim Chief Financial Officer and will assume that role upon Ms. Robinson’s departure. The Company has launched a formal search process to identify a permanent successor. “On behalf of everyone at Myers Industries, I’d like to express my gratitude to Sonal for her outstanding leadership, consistent partnership, and financial stewardship. Sonal has played a central role during one of the most significant periods in the Company’s history,” said Myers Industries’ president and Chief Executive Officer Mike McGaugh. “Her contributions have been a key factor in the important steps we’ve taken to transform the Company. Sonal has elevated the finance organization and strengthened the team through her commitment to excellence and talent development. We are fortunate to have benefited from her talents, and we appreciate everything she’s done for the Company. Monica Vinay is a well-respected and accomplished colleague, and she, along with our experienced finance leadership team, has my full confidence in leading the Finance function as a search for a permanent CFO is conducted.” Ms. Robinson said, “I am extremely proud of our accomplishments during this transformational period in the Company’s history. It has been a pleasure working alongside such dedicated and talented colleagues and I wish them continued success in the execution of Myers’ long-term strategy.”
Green Cubes Technology expands executive team
Industry Leader Expects Accelerated Growth from Continued Demand for Industrial Electrification Green Cubes Technology, a provider in electrification and clean, connected, cost-effective power solutions, has announced four significant executive appointments to its leadership team – Ken Gregory as Vice President of Supply Chain and Procurement, Alan Forster as Vice President of Sales for Americas, Rita Faunce as Vice President of Sales Operations and Customer Experience, and Rocio Castellanos as International Controller. These executives join Ken Johnson, who was appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) last year. The team will provide leadership to sales, supply chain, operations, manufacturing, and customer support functions for continued growth within Motive (including Ground Support & Materials Handling), Stationary (Telecom & Data Center), and Mobile (Industrial Automation) Power market segments. “We’re very pleased to add so many talented professionals to Green Cubes’ executive team,” said Keith Washington, CEO of Green Cubes Technology. “This reflects the rapid growth of the company, and the leadership that each of these individuals bring to the company will help us continue to lead the charge to electrification.” Mr. Gregory has a history of success with enterprise operations and transformation, customer experience, supply chain, and channel/alliance sales across the enterprise and consumer Information Technology, Education, and Learning organizations. He has driven sustainable cultural and digital transformations in highly matrixed organizations resulting in increased revenue, enhanced customer confidence, organizational capability, and employee engagement. He brings over 25 years of core supply chain experience gained at IBM supporting its enterprise computer hardware segments. Mr. Gregory’s most recent experiences were at Pearson, a global leader in learning and education where he oversaw customer service and digital operations transformation. Mr. Forster is responsible for managing and accelerating Green Cubes’ pipeline and revenue growth while developing its channel and sales enablement programs. In his recent role as Sales Director for the company’s Telecom and Data Center business unit (operating as Unipower), he helped rebuild sales and channel relationships, managed consistent quarterly growth, and increased sales channel coverage during the global pandemic. By working diligently with the Unipower team, he doubled bookings and revenue during a global supply chain and transportation slow down. Ms. Faunce directs Green Cubes’ sales operations teams globally, drives its customer experience strategy, and will facilitate ownership of customer experience excellence. She has vast experience managing global teams in sales operations, customer service, and customer satisfaction with success in delivering customer-facing programs that foster a spirit of transparency, continuous improvement, and mutual accountability in customer relationships. Ms. Faunce will implement continuous improvement plans, leverage customer insights, and data, and work across multiple departments to ensure team members and leadership are aware of and dedicated to the goals of continuously improving the customer experience. Ms. Castellanos joins Green Cubes as a key member of the global finance and accounting team. She is responsible for the internal and external financial reporting of all Green Cubes affiliated entities outside the U.S. In her role, she will support the entities in financial reporting topics and bridge the information to the U.S. headquarters. She will focus on continuous improvement of processes and deliverables to enhance financial performance visibility across the entities, as well as act as a strategic business advisor for International Operations. Ms. Castellanos brings over 20 years of experience and has worked for various companies including PwC, Swiss Life, and Daniel Swarovski Corp. The expansion of Green Cubes’ executive team follows the company’s announcement last year that it added a second 36,000 square foot domestic facility in Kokomo, Indiana, and expanded its product lines for Motive and Stationary Power to support accelerated growth in Material Handling and Telecom markets. The Kokomo facility is currently increasing its manufacturing throughput and is expecting a 150% increase in Motive Power shipments in 2022, relative to 2021. Additionally, Green Cubes previously announced that it established two new facilities in Europe and a Technology Center in Zurich, Switzerland.
Ferri named ASSP’s Safety Professional of the Year
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has named Abby Ferri, CSP, its 2022 Safety Professional of the Year. The risk management and safety consulting expert has been an ASSP member for 20 years and has helped advance occupational safety and health in many ways. Ferri played a key role in a recent ASSP governance change that involved creating a diverse advisory group to replace the Society’s House of Delegates and enable the Board of Directors to fully govern the organization. She served on the Governance Task Force that researched association governance trends, interacted with ASSP members, and developed the recommendations that were later adopted to strengthen the Society. Over the past decade, Ferri has been a speaker at more than 100 regional, national and international events while appearing on dozens of safety and health podcasts. In 2020, she co-founded a podcast called “The Safety Justice League,” which has been influential in exploring a wide range of safety and health issues. It consistently ranks on Apple Podcasts’ Top 200 business and career charts. “Even with a demanding career, Abby makes time to give back to her fellow safety professionals and the future of the profession through volunteer leadership, standards development, and innovation in how safety professionals interact with each other,” said Kristin Herman, CSP, CHMM, CPEA, chair of the Awards and Honors Committee for ASSP’s Women in Safety Excellence (WISE) Common Interest Group. “Abby enthusiastically leverages her experience and knowledge to advance occupational safety and health in countless ways.” Ferri led WISE from 2018-20 as the group’s administrator. Her continued involvement in WISE, including mentoring safety professionals and identifying future leaders, has increased the inclusion and advancement of women in the safety and health industry. In 2021, Ferri was named Safety Professional of the Year in four ASSP groups: WISE, Council on Practices and Standards, Region V, and the Northwest Chapter. “Abby continues to build and strengthen relationships with industry groups that aim to reach women and recruit the next generation,” said Jen Ellinwood, CSP, president of ASSP’s Northwest Chapter. “Her leadership has been instrumental, especially for those who have not had a voice or adequate representation.” Ferri is the author of two Kindle books, “The Safety Habit” published in 2020, and “The Safety Consultant’s Toolkit” published in 2021 that shares her knowledge of starting and running a safety consulting firm. “I have worked with Abby on several occasions, and the goals she accomplishes are accompanied by a passion, dedication, and can-do attitude,” said Tim Page-Bottorff, CSP, CIT, member of ASSP’s Board of Directors. “She clearly is committed to being a leader, and her mentoring has definitely influenced my leadership skills.” Ferri is a senior risk control consultant at Gallagher, which provides insurance, risk management, and consulting services. She works with clients in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, education, real estate, hospitality, and restaurants. She resides in Eden Prairie, MN, with her husband, Andrew, and daughter, Moselle. Each year, ASSP honors an occupational safety and health professional who demonstrates outstanding achievement in the safety field while making significant contributions to advancing the profession. Visit the ASSP website to see past recipients of the Society’s Safety Professional of the Year Award.
BeerBoard names Josh Solomon Vice President of Channel Partnerships
BeerBoard a provider of technology and automated business intelligence for the on-premise retail industry has announced that Josh Solomon has been named the company’s vice president of channel partnerships. Solomon has spent the last 16-plus years in various positions with the company, including sales, client relationship management, client support, and service and product validation/R&D. Most recently, Solomon focused his efforts to support BeerBoard’s National Accounts Division for concepts such as Buffalo Wild Wings, Twin Peaks, Main Event, World of Beer, TGI Fridays, American Social, Abby’s, Grub Burger Bar (now Hopdoddy Burger Bar), FAT Brands, Reach Restaurant Group and Smokey Bones, among others. Working closely with BeerBoard’s retail client-partners, Solomon has helped them realize the benefits of BeerBoard’s full technology stack, with an emphasis on automated ordering, automated inventory, and industry insights/data. “With the national rollout of SmartOrders and the integrations with scores of industry partners, we now need to dedicate a person to manage the success of our fast-growing Channel Partnership Network,” said John Boyle, BeerBoard’s Senior Vice President of Business Development. “With his industry knowledge and vast relationships, Josh is the right person to step into this role and drive the growth of our channel partnerships.” “BeerBoard’s proven track record of success, coupled with our strong retail, brewer, and distributor relationships, it is the right time to branch out to other industry providers and stakeholders to promote mutual benefits to the industry as a whole,” Solomon said. “We are excited to continue our next phase of growth through the expansion of current relationships and formation of new industry partners.” BeerBoard’s robust client list features high-profile independent groups and major chain operators across North America. Retailers include industry leaders Buffalo Wild Wings, Hooters, Twin Peaks, WingHouse, Mellow Mushroom, and TGI Fridays. BeerBoard also partners with major brewers including Molson Coors, Boston Beer, Constellation Brands, Lagunitas, Heineken, Diageo, and Yuengling.
ASSP announces 2022 Outstanding Safety Educator
Lora Cavuoto, a widely respected educator in the occupational safety and health field and a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) for seven years, is ASSP’s 2022 William E. Tarrants Outstanding Safety Educator. Cavuoto, Ph.D., CPE, is an associate professor in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) at the University at Buffalo in New York. She has been the director of the university’s occupational health and safety training program since 2017. Cavuoto has written nearly 70 journal articles, more than 30 conference proceedings, and many technical reports, in addition to delivering technical presentations at national and international conferences. Her research promotes healthier and more productive work environments by integrating human factors and ergonomics principles. A resident of South Wales in suburban Buffalo, Cavuoto joined the university in 2012 to strengthen its ergonomics research to prevent occupational injury and illness, and to teach courses in human factors engineering. In 2020, she received the school’s highest award for undergraduate teaching and mentorship. “Dr. Cavuoto not only embodies scientific excellence, creativity, and a commitment to education – she is also a leader and collaborator,” said Ann Bisantz, Ph.D., dean of undergraduate education at the university. “Her student evaluations are typically among the highest in the department, and among the best at the university overall.” Each of Cavuoto’s industry-funded research projects over the last five years has involved students, providing them with practical experience and exposure to the challenges faced in industries worldwide. “Dr. Cavuoto is one of the most impactful occupational safety and health scholars of her generation,” said Victor Paquet, Sc.D., professor, and chair of the university’s ISE department. “She has made significant educational and research contributions in ergonomics and biomechanics, assessment of work-related injury risk, use of wearable technologies to prevent injuries, and the improvement of patient safety through robotics and surgery design.” Cavuoto has mentored more than 40 students on senior capstone projects and dissertations aimed at solving occupational safety and health engineering challenges and better protecting workers on the job. “She instills an enthusiasm for student learning by carefully guiding students toward the right answers to complex problems,” Paquet said. “She strongly believes that being approachable and accessible are vital components of a successful learning environment. The way that Dr. Cavuoto operationalizes her teaching philosophies and dedication to her students has enabled her to become the exceptional teacher and mentor that she is today.” Cavuoto will be honored at ASSP’s Safety 2022 Professional Development Conference and Exposition, held June 27-29 in Chicago. The global event will bring together thousands of safety professionals to learn about best practices, industry trends, and the latest product innovations in the occupational safety and health field. Each year, ASSP honors a member who demonstrates outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health education. These top instructors help students reach their full potential and become results-producing safety professionals. ASSP’s Outstanding Safety Educator Award is named after William E. Tarrants, a pioneer in safety education who was an ASSP Fellow and president (1977-78).
Kyocera strengthens its leadership team with the addition of new Vice Presidents of Software & ICT and Channel Sales
Kyocera Document Solutions America, Inc. has announced the appointment of Joseph Fuccillo as Vice President of Software & ICT, and Donald DuVall, as Vice President of Channel Sales. The duo arrives as the latest reinforcements to Oscar Sanchez’s team of experts, leading Kyocera with a diverse range of backgrounds. These two new faces bring vast experience in their fields and industries, to add to the team. It builds upon Sanchez’s renovation of Kyocera’s leadership team since his appointment as President & CEO in 2018. “It is a great source of pride and excitement for us to welcome Joe and Don to our team,” Sanchez said. “They are two very accomplished individuals who will help to guide the future of our organization, using their vast experience and first-class minds to bring new ideas to Kyocera. They will help our team to achieve all the objectives that we have outlined for the present, while also working alongside our leadership team to determine our vision for the future.” The arrival of Fuccillo builds upon the company’s increasing commitment to the world of ICT Services. Armed with experience as a leader of Managed and Professional Service at Hitachi Vantara/Hitachi Data Systems, a Fortune 500 company specializing in products and services for cloud computing, data center management, Internet of Things, data protection, and big data analytics, he comes well-equipped to lead Kyocera’s charge in the field. “Joe’s background is exactly the kind of area that we needed to strengthen. Managed IT and Communication Services will form a core pillar for the future of Kyocera, and Joe is the ideal leader to take on this exciting project of establishing Kyocera as a player in the industry, building upon our existing services and a team of experts,” Sanchez added. Channel Sales also remain a fundamental area within the company’s operations. Arriving with over 25 years of industry experience, DuVall previously led Konica Minolta’s dealer business unit and acted as Vice President of Sales for Impact Networking as he led their startup operation in Southern California. His proven track record in the industry and the perfect mix of experience on both the side of a manufacturer at Konica Minolta and the side of dealers with Impact Networking gives him a unique profile when it comes to establishing plans for Kyocera to give their partners exactly what they need to grow. “From the first time I spoke to Don, I was already immensely impressed by his knowledge of the industry and the channel. He knows and understands the importance of having committed partnerships with dealers of all shapes and sizes, and how to help dealers to achieve more. I’m already looking forward to seeing how we can put his knowledge to work within Kyocera,” Sanchez indicated. Both departments are essential to Kyocera’s long-term strategy of diversification of its product portfolio while building ever-stronger relationships with dealer partners across the U.S. With these arrivals, Sanchez and the existing leadership team will benefit from the innovation and impetus of proven industry leaders in their fields. The appointments also come at the perfect time, giving Fuccillo and DuVall time to get to grips with Kyocera, their new team, and stakeholders ahead of their REIMAGINE Dealer Conference to be held in San Antonio, Texas, in June.
Fenner™ Precision Polymers relocates corporate offices
Fenner™ Precision Polymers, a Michelin Group Company and world provider in reinforced polymer technology announced the move of its corporate offices. The new location is in Manheim Township, will be at 187 West Airport Road in Lititz, Pa. Approximately 100 of Fenner’s office staff are expected to move into the new offices beginning fall of 2022. Ongoing construction updates will be underway in the space through October. The company anticipates that the remaining corporate staff will have relocated to the new facility by end of 2022. “This is a great location for us and one that is great for the business,” said Jack Krecek, Divisional Managing Director, Fenner Precision Polymers. “The West Airport Road location offers a convenient commute for employees that is just minutes away from the previous site. It also provides enhanced comfort and productivity advantages over the previous corporate headquarters. It’s a workplace in which staff will be more connected and better positioned to support our growth.” The enhanced office space brings to life the kind of environment that will attract and retain top talent in the Lancaster area. It features improved cross-functional collaboration inside the workplace and supports sustainability efforts externally, by reducing time and carbon emissions produced by travel between buildings and outside meetings. “Our relocation to the new facility marks yet another proud milestone along our journey to becoming a world-class manufacturing operation,” added Krecek. “We see it as a launch pad for innovation –increasing engineering jobs for an R&D center and creating new manufacturing jobs to support Fenner’s expanding operations.” Built in 1998, 187 West Airport Road sits on 2.94 acres. It is a 35,021 sq. ft. Industrial/Flex building consisting of office and warehouse space. Fenner and many of its brands have been members of Lancaster and Manheim communities for more than 100 years.
Lincoln Electric names Lisa A. Dietrich as Executive Vice President, Chief Information Officer
Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. has announced that Lisa A. Dietrich has been named as Lincoln Electric’s Executive Vice President, Chief Information Officer (CIO), effective immediately. In this role, Dietrich will oversee the Company’s enterprise information technology (IT) systems, cybersecurity, and global IT initiatives that advance the Company’s Higher Standard 2025 Strategy. Dietrich brings 25-years of IT leadership and strategic change management experience. She most recently served as Senior Vice President, CIO at American Greetings Corporation, where she led enterprise initiatives that accelerated growth leveraging new digital platforms and re-designed processes and IT systems to improve operational efficiency. “Lisa brings extensive strategic IT and infrastructure change management experience, which will expand the impact of our global IT organization and support our Higher Standard 2025 Strategy goals,” said Christopher L. Mapes, Lincoln’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Lisa joins at an exciting time as Lincoln pivots to growth and is focused on generating higher returns from our Lincoln Business System and our investments in enterprise systems and processes.” Dietrich joins Lincoln Electric from American Greetings Corporation, where she served as CIO and Vice President of Business Transformation during her 11-year tenure with the organization. She previously served as Portfolio CIO at Key Community Bank. Dietrich earned a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and International Business from Ohio University and an MBA from Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University.
MiR appoints Mark Joppru VP of Sales for the Americas
Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR) has announced that Mark Joppru has joined the autonomous mobile robot (AMR) first mover and global market provider as the vice president of sales for the Americas. The former VP of ABB USA’s Consumer Segments and Service Robotics division started May 2, joining an organization that experienced a 42% increase in sales in 2021 over 2020 and 22% growth in the first quarter of 2022 alone. “The autonomous mobile robot business is exploding, with more companies from even more industries deploying large fleets as they realize the big benefits they can bring to their organizations,” Joppru said. “MiR’s safe, reliable and easy-to-deploy mobile robots improve efficiencies and productivity, especially important as so many continue to struggle with a disrupted supply chain and ongoing labor shortages. The potential is massive as more invest in improving their supply chains and logistics processes, and I look forward to helping MIR continue to lead the way in meeting our customers’ challenges.” Prior to joining MiR, Joppru worked at ABB USA, starting in 2017 as the lead for ABB Motors and Mechanical sales team in the US before being tasked as VP of sales for the Consumer Segments and Service Robotics division in 2020. In his latest role, he was responsible for business leadership, sales, and customer experience. Before ABB, Joppru served for 25 years in multiple sales leadership roles at Rockwell Automation, including industry sales director for China and Latin America and global director of automotive sales. Joppru holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Milwaukee School of Engineering and a master’s degree in industrial distribution from Texas A&M University. “Mark’s decades of experience in industrial automation and sales management makes him an invaluable leader for our growing team and customer base here in the Americas,” said Thomas Knudsen, chief commercial officer for MiR. “Not only does he know mobile robots, but he understands the challenges customers from myriad industries continue to face and has already demonstrated creative ways that we, along with our partners, can solve them. The Americas remains in highly capable hands.” Joppru replaces Ed Mullen, who after nearly six years with MiR left to seek new challenges with the software company Dexterity.
Raymond honored by New York State SkillsUSA with distinguished service award
Raymond welding team leaders and technical trainers have facilitated and judged the New York State SkillsUSA welding fabrication competition since 2014 The Raymond Corporation was recently honored by New York State SkillsUSA with a Distinguished Service Award in recognition of its outstanding support and contributions to career and technical education. SkillsUSA established this award to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions made to it by organizations, agencies, businesses, or other groups. Raymond received the award during the NYS SkillsUSA Championships showcase from April 27 to 29, 2022, in Syracuse, New York. “The Raymond Corporation is proud to support New York State SkillsUSA and help elevate the skilled trades that fuel Raymond’s own manufacturing operations with talented welders, technicians, and a variety of other skilled positions,” said Tony Topencik, vice president of operations, quality, and environmental, health and safety for The Raymond Corporation. “The skills developed through SkillsUSA help prepare students for future employment, whether in manufacturing or in a variety of fields that are in urgent need of professional and skilled talent to bring their operations to the next level.” In addition to the company’s overall career and technical education support, Raymond’s welding team leaders and technical trainers have facilitated and judged the welding fabrication competition since 2014 at the NYS SkillsUSA Championships. For this year’s competition, the NYS SkillsUSA Championships Welding Fabrication Technical Committee designed an outdoor fire pit for competitors to fabricate. Participants were required to weld the specified outdoor wood fire pit while using a number of different welding techniques, including shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and metal inert gas (MIG) welding. SkillsUSA works to enhance the lives of youth by providing every member the opportunity for career success. Without the efforts of highly dedicated individuals, thousands of young people would not be able to achieve the success that, in turn, contributes directly to the overall well-being of the nation.
Young joins Felling Trailers as South-Central Regional Sales Manager
Felling Trailers Inc., a national provider of industrial and commercial trailers, has recently named Mike Young as a regional sales manager to serve the South-Central territory. He will be responsible for all sales development, activity, and dealer support within Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana. As the regional manager for the south-central territory, Mike’s primary responsibilities will be to achieve region market share objectives with the existing dealer base and develop new dealers in the assigned territory, providing training and product support. Mike will be taking over the south-central region once served by Gary Knudsen, who retired at the end of 2021. “Mike has a lot of industry/product knowledge. I believe he will be an asset to our team as we continue to grow our market share in the south-central region and the underground construction equipment markets,” said Nathan Uphus, Felling sales manager. Young brings over a decade of experience in the underground construction, oil, and gas industries with a strong emphasis on sales, management, and customer service. Mike brings a diverse knowledge of the underground utility markets, having worked in the oil & gas drilling industry for 12 years. Most recently, Mike held the role of vac truck sales manager for Vermeer Equipment of Texas/Louisiana. Before his time there, he was the regional sales manager for Vac-Tron/Vermeer MV Solutions for the Texas/Louisiana, Midsouth, and Great Plains territories. Along with representing the Felling Trailers product lines, Young also represents Larson Cable Trailers’ products throughout the southern United States. Larson Cable Trailers is a division of Felling Trailers, Inc. Felling Trailers acquired the Larson Cable Trailers’ assets in early 2021. “I am glad to be a part of both the Felling Trailers’ and Larson Cable Trailers’ sales teams. Both companies manufacture high-quality trailers that work great in their specific applications. I am excited to start my journey with them,” said Young. “We feel Mike’s extensive experience in the underground oil & gas industries will be a great asset in our south-central territory,” said Patrick Jennissen, Felling’s SVP of sales & marketing.
Black Equipment acquires portions of Tennessee and Arkansas operations for Hyster
Material handling dealer expands sales and service territory to include the Memphis market Black Equipment, a material handling equipment dealer with headquarters in Evansville, Indiana, announces a significant expansion to its sales and service territory in the southern United States. Black Equipment has acquired the Briggs Equipment territory as the Hyster® dealer in the Memphis, Tennessee; Jackson, Tennessee; and Jonesboro, Arkansas markets, effective April 29, 2022. Black Equipment is already the authorized Yale® dealer for these markets and will continue to operate from its existing locations. A family-owned business, the material handling dealer has grown from a single facility to 11 locations covering parts of seven states. “Black Equipment is a dedicated partner and industry leader in the markets we serve, and our growth is a reflection of that,” said Scott Bonnell, president of Black Equipment. “By investing in people and technology, we deliver trusted service, material handling solutions, and 24-hour support that helps our customers thrive. In fact, 80 of our trained technicians are already dedicated to this region, and we look forward to welcoming our new customers with a seamless transition.” “Memphis, Jackson, and Jonesboro are very significant to Hyster and Yale, and this expansion by Black Equipment further strengthens our dedicated dealer network,” said Chuck Pascarelli, president Americas Division, Hyster-Yale Group. “With a proven performance record that includes 22 consecutive years of recognition as a Dealer of Excellence, we are confident in the service and expertise that Black Equipment will provide to their new customers in these markets.” As part of this transaction, Briggs Equipment will take over the Black Equipment territory as the Yale® dealer for Tupelo, Mississippi.
Lincoln Electric appoints Michelle N. Butler as Vice President, Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) & Sustainability
Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. has announced that Michelle N. Butler has been appointed Vice President, Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) & Sustainability, reporting to the Executive Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary. In this new role, Butler will oversee the Company’s EHS & Sustainability policies, procedures, and operational initiatives to advance safety, health, incident and accident prevention, regulatory compliance, and environmental management performance. She will also lead the Company’s sustainability program and its Sustainability Committee to enhance environmental performance and product stewardship. She will also serve as a key member of the new Executive Sustainability Leadership Committee, which will oversee environmental, social, and governance initiatives, targets, performance, and disclosures. Butler most recently served as Director of Sustainability at Wabtec Corporation, where she integrated their sustainability strategy into core processes and governance structures, developed a roadmap to achieve energy goals, enhanced external reporting, and supported the issuance of green bonds. She also led Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) in the Americas region. “We are pleased to welcome Michelle and the expertise and leadership she brings to improve our EHS performance and expand our sustainability initiatives,” said Christopher L. Mapes, Lincoln’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our Higher Standard 2025 Strategy emphasizes innovation and operational excellence across the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) pillars to achieve our 2025 sustainability goals and longer-term commitments to ensure our organization is aligned with our stakeholders and is operating by a higher standard to build a better world.” In addition to her tenure at Wabtec, Butler served as the EHS Growth and Sustainability Leader at GE Transportation, Senior Pollution Prevention Engineer at the New York State Pollution Prevention Institute, and held a variety of Health, Safety, and Environment roles of increasing responsibility at Eastman Kodak Company. Butler earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Howard University, a Master’s degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering from Stanford University, and a dual Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering and Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan.
AMT Founder Michael Jacobs is named for Prestigious Achievement Award, the Engelberger Robotics Award for Leadership
Applied Manufacturing Technologies Founder and CEO Michael Jacobs has been named by Association for Advancing Automation to receive the Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award for Leadership, the world’s most prestigious robotics honor Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT), North America’s largest independent automation engineering company supporting manufacturers, robot companies, system integrators, line builders, and users of robotic automation worldwide, today announced Founder and CEO Michael P. Jacobs has been named to receive the Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award for Leadership by Association for Advancing Automation (A3). Named after the late Joseph F. Engelberger who was known throughout the world as the founder and driving force behind industrial robotics, the Engelberger Robotics Award is the world’s most prestigious robotics honor. It is presented to individuals for excellence in technology development, application, education, and leadership in the robotics industry. Each winner is selected by an award committee consisting of Past Chairs of the A3 Robotics Technology Strategy Award. Award recipients are given a $5,000 honorarium and commemorative medallion with the inscription, “Contributing to the advancement of the science of robotics in the service of mankind.” Since its inception, the Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award has been presented to 128 leaders from 17 countries. In the association’s award announcement, A3 cited Jacobs’ expertise in the robotic automation industry and his early work at GMF Robotics (now FANUC) as contributing to his selection as well as his pioneering product development and market introduction of robot simulation and offline robotic programming systems. “I was thrilled that Mike Jacobs was selected for the Engelberger Award for Leadership,” said Jeff Burnstein, president of A3. “He has been a tireless supporter of the robotics industry and our trade association for decades and has built AMT into one of the world’s top system integrators. I look forward to being part of the ceremony that honors him at the Automate 2022 show in Detroit.” Jacobs will be presented with the Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award for Leadership at the Joseph F. Engelberger Awards Dinner and Ceremony on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at the Automate 2022 conference and exhibition at the Huntington Place Convention Center in Detroit, Michigan. Jacobs has a long history with the Robotic Industries Association (RIA), the organization which originated the Engelberger Award and is now under the umbrella of A3. Joining the RIA in the early 1990s after founding Applied Manufacturing Technologies, Jacobs was an active contributor, serving on various committees, transitioning in the 2000s to committee chair positions, and culminating in his tenure as Chair of RIA from 2016 to 2017. After his term as RIA chair ended, Jacobs served as a board member for A3 and was part of a select group that created the strategic plan to steer RIA’s transition to A3. He was subsequently invited to be one of the first members of A3’s Artificial Intelligence Technical Advisory Board, where he serves today. “Recognition by industry leaders with an award that bears the name of Joseph Engelberger is a highlight of my career,” Jacobs said. “I am truly honored and deeply humbled.”
Orbis® announces 2021 Plant of the Year recipient
ORBIS® Corporation — an international provider in reusable packaging — recently named its Silao, Mexico, facility its 2021 Plant of the Year. This annual ORBIS award honors one of its plants for its performance in safety, quality, service, innovation, and overall operational efficiency. This plant, located in the state of Guanajuato in Central Mexico, employs more than 350 associates and provides food, beverage, automotive, and consumer goods companies with reusable packaging totes, containers, custom dunnage, and pallets to move their products safely, efficiently, and more cost-effectively than single-use packaging. This plant is a two-time award recipient and was named the ORBIS Plant of the Year in 2019. “I am excited to share that the Silao plant has had zero recordable injuries for more than 1,000 days and achieved tremendous quality and workplace efficiency in 2021,” said Todd Mathes, executive VP of operations at ORBIS Corporation. “A top performer, this plant consistently exemplifies success through a deep dedication to safety, an engaged culture, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.” The Silao plant — one of 14 ORBIS North American manufacturing facilities considered for the award — won the 2021 Plant of the Year Award for its strong performance in workplace safety, customer service, and quality, as well as operational excellence. In 2021, Silao set new records in safety, revenue generation, and workplace efficiency. “A strong culture of teamwork, commitment, and innovation helped the Silao plant earn this recognition,” said Bill Ash, president of ORBIS. “We are very proud and appreciative of the plant’s accomplishments and are looking forward to continued success from Silao in the years to come.”
Gorbel® CEO Brian Reh appointed Vice President of MHI
The leading association for handling, supply chain, and logistics appoints Gorbel® CEO to help shape its strategic vision Gorbel® Inc., a provider in overhead material handling, ergonomic lifting, and industrial fall protection, is excited to announce that Gorbel CEO Brian Reh has recently been elected to serve as Vice President of MHI, the nation’s largest material handling, supply chain, and logistics organization. In this role, Reh will be a vital part of solidifying the organization as the authoritative resource for material handling. Reh has been involved at MHI in various capacities for more than 15 years and has been a key participant in recent initiatives to set the direction for the organization. Reh and Gorbel® are key members of MHI industry groups that focus on overhead lifting and ergonomics. MHI members produce products and solutions ranging from mobile automation to storage equipment. MHI has a commitment to building supply chains that make the world work. To achieve this, the association delivers up-to-date knowledge, close professional connections, and top industry leadership, alongside the best market access for manufacturing and supply chain professionals. “MHI and Gorbel® share a commitment to sustaining the invisible force that connects everything, that is, supply chains,” affirms Reh. “Even in times of disruption,” he adds, “it is crucial that these supply chains run smoothly and successfully to keep critical goods flowing fast and freely. At MHI and Gorbel, we make sustaining supply chains our mission.”
Industry veteran joins AutoScheduler as Chief Revenue Officer to accelerate growth
Co-Founder of LeanLogistics, Jeff Potts, brings 30 years of experience to empower the company for growth and greater profitability AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Management System (WMS) accelerator, adds Jeff Potts as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), empowering the company to accelerate growth and gain a more competitive edge. Jeff joins AutoScheduler with over thirty years of experience within the supply chain industry and proven success in business development and sales leadership. As CRO, Jeff will be responsible for developing new paths to revenue that drive predictable growth across sales and marketing. Jeff was one of the founders of LeanLogistics, the first transportation management system in the industry offered as a true Software as a Service (SaaS) platform. Jeff served as a corporate office and Board Member until LeanLogistics was sold to Brambles Limited in 2008 and later acquired by Kewill Systems in 2016. The company was rebranded as BluJay Solutions, where Jeff served as Vice-President of Client Services. “As one of five co-founders of LeanLogistics, I have a wealth of experience associated with starting a company, helping it grow, and creating value through strong relationships with customers and partners,” said Jeff Potts, CRO of AutoScheduler. “I bring my industry knowledge, business development acumen, visionary outlook, and team-building skills to drive growth for the company and execute go-to-market programs that capture market share.” “Jeff Potts is well-known in the industry and a proven leader, positioning him to greatly impact revenues and profitability for the company while driving value for our customers,” said Keith Moore, Chief Product Officer, AutoScheduler.AI. “Jeff will use strategy, analytics, and the best talent to target new customers and markets while deepening engagement with existing clients.” In 2021, BluJay was acquired by E2open, where Jeff served as the Vice President of Strategic Accounts. He currently is on the Supply Chain Management Advisory Board at Quinlan School of Business at Loyola University Chicago. Jeff graduated from Michigan State University with a BA Degree in Material & Logistics Management. He received Merchant Mariner Credentials for the U.S. Coast Guard and has Transportation Workers Identification Credentials with the Transportation Security Administration. Jeff received a patent in 2000 for Methods and apparatus for connecting shippers and carriers in the third-party logistics environment via the Internet. AutoScheduler is a WMS accelerator that maximizes the customer-facing output of the distribution center while understanding and respecting the different space, labor, and process constraints that exist within a warehouse. AutoScheduler reduces touches, cuts travel, and increases the capacity per labor unit to drive value. AutoScheduler more proactively identifies inventory and fulfillment bottlenecks to mitigate risk and improve outcomes.