Dellner Bubenzer relaunches at AIST
Dellner Brakes, owner of Pintsch Bubenzer, relaunched as Dellner Bubenzer at the Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST) Conference and Exposition, which took place June 28 to July 1st at the Music City Center, Nashville, Tennessee. A new website has also gone live at www.dellnerbubenzer.com. Dellner Brakes JHS, Dellner Brakes, Dellner Industrial, Pintsch Bubenzer and Rima are operating as one company with immediate effect. Sweden’s Dellner Group—Dellner Brakes was a subsidiary—acquired German industrial braking manufacturer Pintsch Bubenzer in January 2018, in a deal that has paved the way for the companies’ ongoing global expansion. Pintsch Bubenzer makes high performance disc and drum brakes for cranes and other severe duty applications, as well as complementary products, such as emergency and storm brakes. Four months earlier, Dellner Brakes had acquired U.S. brake and clutch company Gummi USA. Momentum was continued two years ago when Dellner Brakes, incorporating Italy’s Rima Srl, bought German brake specialist JHS Jungblut in a move that immediately strengthened the company’s offering in the wind energy market, and enabled further global expansion, notably in the Far East. Once competitors, this game-changing acquisition put these braking powerhouses on the same team. Joel Cox, president at now Dellner Bubenzer USA LLC, said: “Much of our community has followed the journey of the Pintsch Bubenzer brand—Pintsch Bamag and Bubenzer Bremsen are steeped in history and eventually became the Pintsch Bubenzer business that Dellner acquired. It’s really been a journey that started generations ago and has found its way to this landmark moment.” The new-look Dellner Bubenzer was unveiled on Day One of the AIST expo, where a fresh logo, brand colors and values are visible for the first time. The new, green-colored ‘DB’ logo is a tribute to the ‘D’ from Dellner and the previous branding, and the legacy ‘B’ from Bubenzer. They form together with a disc outline, since caliper brakes are core to the business. The logo has already been integrated into brake castings, as AIST delegates will see. Cox was part of a global leadership trio that executed the entire brand overhaul, including Friederike Imhäuser, marketing manager, of Germany; and Edgar Roca, vice president of Dellner Brakes, of Texas. Governale Group, of Houston, Texas, provided branding expertise, having emerged as the chosen partner from a three-strong, worldwide shortlist. The team started planning at the beginning of the year and was shooting for an April to July launch, which has been delivered on time. Cox said: “Our founding brakes [from Gerhard Bubenzer] were a shade of green many years before the famous red color, but the new look represents progression away from the legacy color to a bright, vibrant green that has been established and locked in; we plan to protect it for many years to come. Of course, to match, an interactive and easier-to-navigate website captures the new, global brand family. The [AIST] show will be the physical launch platform but the whole package will be rolled out around the world.” Additionally, new datasheets, catalogs, graphics, image libraries, etc. have been updated. The new-look Dellner Bubenzer will deliver a presentation to the AIST Crane Symposium, which takes place August 15-17 at the Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Cox and Mike Astemborski, executive sales manager, will deliver a paper titled, ‘Lifting or lowering a load safely after failure or incident’, at 10:30 a.m. on August 16. The symposium, organized by AIST’s Cranes Technology Committee, delivers practical information and experiences from maintenance personnel, crane manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, and engineering consultants with the sole intention of making electric overhead traveling (EOT) cranes and their runways the safest, most reliable, durable machines in the steel industry.
Dellner Bubenzer recruits Managing Director for Latin America
Dellner Bubenzer has named Ezequiel Ivitz, managing director, Latin America. Ivitz, who is based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, joins the recently rebranded company after overseeing operations in the same region for Cavotec, a manufacturer of automated connection and electrification systems. Dellner, already owner of Pintsch Bubenzer, relaunched last month (June) as Dellner Bubenzer, incorporating Dellner Brakes JHS, Dellner Brakes, Dellner Industrial, Pintsch Bubenzer and Rima. Ivitz is familiar with the entire portfolio of heavy-duty, industrial brakes, many of which are distributed by his previous employer. Ivitz, who stepped into a newly-created role, said: “I was impressed with the quality and professionalism of all their products and team, which is an offering that will be enhanced under the Dellner Bubenzer brand. That said, we have a big challenge in front of us. It’s clear that Covid has impacted all industries and countries in the region, and we will need more time to recover than others. However, the prospects and long-term opportunities we have remain intact.” Ivitz will principally oversee Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Peru, Colombia, Panama and other hotbeds in Central America. He pointed to the importance of mines and ports in all these areas. While Argentina itself might not be enjoying the economic stability of neighboring countries, Ivitz is well placed to spearhead plans for aggressive growth across Latin America. Ivitz added: “Eventually, the role will require extensive travel. It’s clear that if we want to be local everywhere I need to visit our customers regularly. In this particular moment, we need to find the best solution to be close to them. Unfortunately, in Latin America, we still have some restrictions on flying and also some customers are not receiving international visitors—but I hope to go back to normal in 2022. Until then, we need to leverage what we have, including the best team and best products in the market.” Joel Cox, president at Dellner Bubenzer USA LLC, said: “I tried to hire Ezequiel two years ago when we were looking for someone in Panama; he is a close industry friend and we share some acquaintances. This second opportunity came at a perfect time as we restructure the company and enter a new phase of growth. Ezequiel has legacy knowledge of Bubenzer products and it is exciting for him to be part of Dellner Bubenzer with all that he, and the relaunch, has to offer industry.” Dellner Bubenzer also has an office in Brazil, where Cesar Bueno serves as managing director. Supported by a multilingual staff across the Americas, Ivitz and Bueno will provide a focal point for sales and service close to the point of use in Latin America. This latest appointment chimes with wider group endeavors to join multinational forces and put customers at the heart of the company’s long-term future. Away from work, Ivitz enjoys spending time with family. He is also a great musician and plays the saxophone and trumpet.
Lenze Americas welcomes new president
Lenze, an automation company for the machine-building industry and a specialist in motion-centric automation, recently announced the appointment of Steve Markham as president of Lenze Americas. “More than ever, Lenze’s industrial solutions expertise and motion-centric applications can make a real difference for machine builders looking for higher productivity, better energy efficiency, lower system cost, and global service support. We are thrilled to welcome Steve Markham to our organization. Under his leadership, Lenze Americas will build on our North American sales, production, and engineering footprint to better serve our customers and drive company growth,” said Christian Wendler, chairman of the Lenze executive board. Having lead US and international firms in rapid growth, Markham brings extensive experience providing management and business consulting services, continuous improvement, and business transformations. With his multi-industry expertise in supply-chain, operations, production, and international business, Markham will make the expansion of the Lenze brand in North America a top priority. “By leveraging Lenze’s impressive worldwide capabilities, investing in logistics and supply chain, and expanding our comprehensive solutions portfolio and engineering support, I look forward to accelerating Lenze Americas’ position as a top motion control supplier,” said Markham. “It is an exciting time to be joining Lenze as we work to make a dramatic expansion in the Americas with our consistent and scalable solutions portfolio – which includes high-quality mechatronic products, powerful hardware, and software for machine automation, and services for digitalization in areas such as big data management, cloud or mobile solutions, and software in the context of IoT.” Markham brings a strong track record to Lenze having held executive leadership positions at Musent LLC, (Interim Management and Consulting), Schaefer Container Systems North Americas, Inc., and BLG Logistics, Inc. Markham is recognized for his ability to develop teams that create sales, client development, operational, and administrative strategies that deliver key results. “I am motivated by challenges that provide an opportunity to learn and grow. I also gain great satisfaction from watching other people and teams develop and succeed,” said Markham. “The plan is for my experience in executing successful strategies, and mastering complex situations with analytical, solution-oriented problem solving, to result in Lenze Americas seeing significant market share growth and improved operational efficiencies. Markham attended the University of Texas at Austin where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Toshiba announces CEO Succession
Veteran Company Executive Larry White replaces retiring Scott Maccabe as Toshiba President & CEO Toshiba America Business Solutions President and Chief Executive Officer Scott Maccabe retired effective June 30 with current Toshiba America Business Solutions Chief Operating Officer Larry White assuming the leadership role on July 1st. Maccabe will then serve as an advisor to Toshiba America Business Solutions’ parent company, Toshiba Tec Corporation. Establishing Success Across Businesses Maccabe has led Toshiba America Business Solutions since accepting the organization’s top job in July 2013. He is responsible for achieving record annual profits for the company in six of those years while expanding Toshiba’s market share to an all-time best during his tenure. Maccabe holds the distinction of concurrently serving as president and CEO of both Toshiba America Business Solutions and Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions for more than five years (August 2015 through November 2020). He successfully grew Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions into a global leader in retail store technology. Before leading Toshiba America Business Solutions, Maccabe was the senior vice president at Toshiba America Electronic Components and general manager of its storage products business unit where he oversaw the organization’s performance and led its expansion into new geographies and business segments. Beyond his many tangible accomplishments, Maccabe is most proud of fostering Toshiba’s entrepreneurial and employee-centric culture throughout his 18 years in leadership roles at separate Toshiba businesses. “Throughout my Toshiba tenure, our people have always been my priority,” says Maccabe. “Our teams work hard and take care of one another while mixing in some fun along the way. And we take succession planning very seriously to ensure employee growth and seamless transitions. Considering Larry’s shared mindset and elite revenue development background, Toshiba’s future is extremely bright.” New CEO Holds Industrywide Admiration Toshiba’s newly named CEO is a widely known, respected, and successful industry leader who has held a variety of executive roles since joining the company in 1996. As a chief operating officer, White oversaw strategic planning across Toshiba’s business operations throughout North and South America. “I’m truly looking forward to the opportunity to lead and mentor our diverse and highly talented workforce while capturing even further market share,” says White. “Team Toshiba represents the best our industry has to offer, and we remain committed to providing our customers and resellers with premier systems, solutions, and services.” White is a three-time ENX Magazine “Difference Maker” and was selected to The Cannata Report’s: Cannata Watchlist 2018. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Texas Tech University.
Caster Concepts appoints Andrew Dobbins VP of Manufacturing
Caster Concepts Inc., a global manufacturer of industrial wheels and casters, announced today that Andrew R. Dobbins has been named vice president of manufacturing for the company and its six associated businesses. Dobbins has been involved with Caster Concepts since its inception more than 30 years ago when he was taught how to sweep the factory floor by Richard Dobbins, his grandfather and founder of the company. Andrew Dobbins, 43, has spent the past five years as general manager of Caster Concepts, providing the energy and leadership for many operational initiatives. “Our greatest success over the past five years has been our 100 percent on-time initiative,” Dobbins said. “Though we have struggled during the pandemic due to labor shortages and logistic challenges, we are on our way to matching and exceeding our 2019 performance of 99 percent–plus on-time delivery.” Caster Concepts president William H. Dobbins says the appointment comes at an exciting time for the company and the industry. “There are many challenges and opportunities in manufacturing, and I am sure that Andrew will provide the leadership needed to keep Caster Concepts in a continuous improvement-and-growth mindset,” said Dobbins. Andrew Dobbins begins his new position immediately, and in the fall, he will start in an executive MBA program at the Eli Broad School of Business at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. Dobbins is married to Stephanie Dobbins, Director of Media and Marketing for Mitchell Golf Equipment, a Caster Concepts company. The couple has two children, Owen, 15, and Molly, 10.
Ontario Warehousing Executive elected to Industry Exec Committee
Members of the International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA), the resource for warehouse logistics, recently elected Daryl Lester, Vice President and Partner of Simtech Supply Chain Management Ltd., London, Ontario, as the association’s 2021-2022 Secretary/Treasurer. IWLA is the only supply chain industry association focused solely on the needs of third-party warehousing providers. Simtech is a third-party warehousing, distribution, e-commerce fulfillment, and 3PL services company with locations in London, West Lorne, Chatham, and Ontario, Canada. The company provides customized “Simtech Solutions” to e-commerce, food and beverage, automotive, retail, and chemical industries. Simtech operates and manages, general warehouse, food-grade, and AWSA-certified facilities and provides warehouse and order fulfillment solutions for many Fortune 500 and global companies. “The IWLA presence in Canada is much stronger because of Daryl’s active leadership during the past decade,” says IWLA Chairman of the Board Jared Stadlin, president of Linden Warehouse & Distribution Co. in Linden, N.J. “More warehouses are tapping into the IWLA network of third-party professionals to benchmark and to hone their businesses because of the efforts of volunteers like Daryl.” Lester’s election to the IWLA Executive Committee is the first step toward becoming a future chairman of the board. He would be the first Canadian to hold that position in IWLA’s 130-year history. He is ready for the challenge: “Some of the most rewarding benefits of IWLA membership are the relationships that are built, the willingness to share and help each other,” he says. Lester is a former student of Fanshawe College where he studied business. He is actively involved with IWLA: He is a co-chairman of the IWLA Canadian Council Steering Committee, serves on the IWLA Membership Committee, and plans the IWLA Fulfillment Council Fulfillment Forum. He is a former co-chairman of the IWLA Warehouse Technology Symposium planning committee. The IWLA Convention & Expo, Nov. 1-3, in San Antonio, Texas, will include Lester’s formal installation as IWLA Secretary/Treasurer. Find out more at www.IWLA.com.
Orbis named a 2020 Supplier of the Year by GM
Company earns award for commitment to long-term sustainability goals ORBIS® Corporation, an international provider of reusable packaging, has been named a winner in General Motors’ 29th annual Supplier of the Year awards. GM has recognized 122 of its best suppliers from 16 countries for performance in the 2020 calendar year. The annual awards highlight global suppliers that distinguish themselves by exceeding GM’s requirements, in turn providing GM customers with innovative technologies and among the highest quality in the automotive industry. This is the first year ORBIS has received this award. ORBIS supplies GM with a wide range of reusable packaging, including totes, bulk containers, custom dunnage, and steel racks, for use along the supply chain. By design, these packaging systems are more sustainable, as they are used over and over during the course of their service life before being recovered, reprocessed, and recycled into new products. “Throughout a challenging year, our suppliers have shown resilience and dedication in working toward our shared goal of long-term sustainability for our planet and the communities we serve while meeting our present needs,” said Shilpan Amin, GM vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. “We are pleased with what we’ve accomplished together in the past year and we are excited by the opportunity that lies ahead.” A global team of GM purchasing, engineering, quality, manufacturing, and logistics leaders selected the 2020 Supplier of the Year winners. The team chose winners based on performance criteria in product purchasing, global purchasing, and manufacturing services, customer care and aftersales, and logistics. “We’re proud of our longtime partnership with GM to build a more sustainable automotive supply chain and future,” said Sheila DeGrazia, Strategic Account Manager at ORBIS Corporation. “This award illustrates our commitment to helping our customers measure and reduces their overall environmental impact, and we look forward to continuing to provide GM with the sustainable reusable packaging solutions to meet their evolving needs.”
Portland warehouse executive elected to Industry Board
Members of the International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA), the resource for warehouse logistics, recently elected Seth Schmedemann, president of Fulcrum Logistics, Inc., as the association’s 2021-2022 director. IWLA is the only supply chain industry association focused solely on the needs of third-party warehousing providers. Portland, Ore., based Fulcrum Logistics is a privately held, full-service third-party logistics company established in 2019. It specializes in the storage and handling of food and beverage. The company has public and contract warehouses across the Pacific Northwest. Schmedemann’s logistics career began in 2009 at Oregon Transfer Co. (OTC), an IWLA member company for more than 110 years. There he served in a variety of administrative, operational, and business development responsibilities, eventually becoming vice president. OTC liquidated warehouse real estate holdings in 2019, leading Schmedemann to launch Fulcrum Logistics. “Seth brings an entrepreneurial spirit and genuine enthusiasm to everything he does,” says IWLA Chairman of the Board Jared Stadlin, president of Linden Warehouse & Distribution Co. in Linden, N.J. “That approach in his service on the IWLA Board will help the association tackle new ideas for its warehouse-operator members and continue to support and improve the broader supply chain.” His history with IWLA includes chairing the Membership and Essentials of Warehousing Committees. He says, “IWLA has been foundational in my career. I had the good fortune to get started with a company that understood the value of the IWLA and was always supportive of my involvement. Looking back, I can’t imagine what my path might have been without the IWLA.” Schmedemann received a bachelor’s of business administration degree from Kansas State University and an MBA from Oregon State University.
Wilwerding joins Felling Trailers as Southwestern Regional Sales Manager
Felling Trailers Inc., a national provider in industrial and commercial trailers, has appointed Michael Wilwerding as their Southwestern Regional Sales Manager. In this role, he will be responsible for all sales development, activity, and dealer support within California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Hawaii. As the regional manager for the southwest, Michael’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. Michael will be taking over the southwestern region once served by Roger Magers, who retired at the end of 2020. “Michael has a lot of industry/product knowledge, and I believe he will be an asset to our team as we continue to grow our market share in the southwest and the heavy equipment markets,” said Nathan Uphus, Felling sales manager. Wilwerding brings over twenty years of experience in the heavy equipment industry with a strong emphasis on sales and customer service. Michael brings a diverse knowledge of the trucking and heavy equipment industries, having worked as a diesel and heavy equipment tech for 16 years. “During my time as a diesel and heavy equipment tech, I learned as much as I could about the trucks and heavy equipment I was working on. I became certified in welding, electronics, hydraulics, and all things related to on-highway trucks and heavy equipment repair,” said Wilwerding. In 2016 Michael transitioned into the sales role as the territory manager for Pape Machinery, an authorized Felling Trailers dealer, selling the John Deere line up and their allied products. “I have worked with Felling over the years and have come to know their trailers as one of the best in the industry. I am excited to work with the people at Felling and the Felling product lines,” said Wilwerding. “We feel Michael will play an important role in the continued growth of the Felling Trailers brand in the southwestern region,” said Patrick Jennissen, Felling’s SVP of sales & marketing.
AMS-Merlo appoints new Sales Manager
Applied Machinery Sales (AMS-Merlo), the importer and distributor of Merlo telehandlers and Rotos has appointed Austin Bailey as Sales Manager of AMS. Bailey, who has been with AMS for over 8 years, brings an in-depth knowledge of AMS and the Merlo line of telehandlers. “I’ve been fortunate to be able to see extraordinary growth during my time with AMS,” Bailey said. “I am excited and looking forward to working with and developing the sales team to continue the growth. Merlo is introducing new innovations and models all the time. We here at AMS are looking forward to sharing this new technology with our dealers, future dealers, and customers.” AMS-Merlo has two locations to serve dealers and customers in the USA: Rock Hill, SC and Olathe, KS.
Pennsylvania warehouse executive elected to Industry Board
Members of the International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA), the resource for warehouse logistics, recently elected Carol K. Keup, chief operating officer of Valley Distributing & Storage Company, Wilkes, Pa., to a three-year term as a board director. IWLA is the only supply chain industry association focused solely on the needs of third-party warehousing providers. Valley is an asset-based third-party logistics (3PL) in northeastern Pennsylvania. The company owns and manages more than 2 million square feet of warehousing and operates a truckload fleet providing regional transportation services. “Carol has a deep understanding of the warehouse logistics industry, what it accomplishes for customers, and where it can go in the future,” says IWLA Chairman of the Board Jared Stadlin, president of Linden Warehouse & Distribution Co. in Linden, N.J. “She is an active voice for fellow third-party warehouse operators through engagement with elected and regulatory officials at all levels of government. This action ensures that rule makers understand 3PLs’ key role in the broader supply chain.” Valley customers include manufacturers of consumer-packaged goods, food and beverage, and industrial goods. Facilities are food-grade certified and serviced by rail. Services include e-commerce, fulfillment, transloading, crossdocking, and other value-added offerings. Keup has a bachelor’s in materials engineering and engineering management from Wilkes University. Prior to her work at Valley, she had experience at General Dynamics, General Electric, and Palmer International. Keup is a long-time IWLA member and is active in the IWLA Transportation Advisory Committee. Other leadership positions include service as chairperson of the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce Industrial Fund; as a board member of the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Business and Industry; and membership in the PA Rail Freight Advisory Committee. She is past chairperson of the Wilkes-Barre Chamber Transportation Committee, a past member of the Scranton Chamber Transportation Committee, and a past chairperson of the Luzerne Country Redevelopment Authority Board. The IWLA Convention & Expo, Nov. 1-3, in San Antonio, Texas, will include Keup’s formal installation to the board.
Toyota Material Handling promotes Bruin, Linnemann to Vice President
Toyota Material Handling (TMH) has announced the promotion of two key executives on the TMH management team. Bret Bruin has been promoted to Vice President of Aftermarket Operations and Josh Linnemann has been promoted to Vice President of Engineering. Bruin’s leadership has been integral in raising the profile of Toyota’s industry-leading aftermarket product and service lines. During his tenure, Bruin’s responsibilities have grown to include the management of Toyota’s service parts sales and field service operations, Heavy Duty Truck aftermarket support, Toyota Lean Management, and strategic account management. Bruin has also championed the recent consolidation of Toyota’s various telematics, e-commerce, and Fleet Management teams to form the company’s new Advanced Services Group. Linnemann’s responsibilities have grown in keeping pace with the market’s increasing demand for customized material handling solutions. In his new role, Linnemann will lead Toyota’s North American new product development engineering staff and advanced research, development, and product testing teams. “More and more, our customers are demanding unique solutions designed specifically to meet their needs,” said Jeff Rufener, TMH president and CEO. “Bret and Josh respectively have made invaluable contributions to our success. Their promotions reflect the significance of their achievements.”
New York warehouse executive elected to Industry Executive Committee
Members of the International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA), the resource for warehouse logistics, recently elected Peter G. Wilson, chairman and CEO of Buffalo-based Sonwil Distribution Center, Inc., as the association’s Convention Officer. IWLA is the only supply chain industry association focused solely on the needs of third-party warehousing providers. “Peter is a true leader in the third-party warehousing industry,” says IWLA Chairman of the Board Jared Stadlin, president of Linden Warehouse & Distribution Co. in Linden, N.J. “Under his leadership, Sonwil embraces strategic and technological innovations to remain at the forefront of the market. That same innovative approach will serve IWLA, its members, and the industry well.” With more than 40-years’ experience in the warehouse and distribution industry, Wilson is a three-term director of the IWLA Board and he has served as chairman of the Food, Transportation Advisory, and Government Affairs Councils. He is also a director of the IWLA Insurance Company, a privately held captive insurance company composed of IWLA member companies where he chairs the underwriting committee. His service extends beyond IWLA. Wilson is a member of Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) and he is a regular presenter during its annual convention. Locally, he sits on the board of governors for and is vice president of The Country Club of Buffalo. Wilson is a life member of Safari Club International and past president of the WNY Chapter, past officer of EMW Soccer Club, and he is founder and immediate past president of the Iroquois Chief Hockey Club. The IWLA Convention & Expo, Nov. 1-3, in San Antonio, Texas, will include Wilson’s formal installation as Convention Officer.
Yellow driver honored as Lytx® Coach of the Year
Yellow Corporation P&D driver, Herschel Evans, has been named 2021 “Coach of the Year” by Lytx®, a global provider of machine vision and artificial intelligence-powered video solutions for trucking fleets. Each year, Lytx honors trucking professionals who champion safety and who go above and beyond in their work, using the Lytx Driver Safety Program. Lytx recognized drivers in six categories: government, services and utilities, transit/motor coach, for-hire trucking, private trucking, and waste/construction. “Herschel being honored for outstanding work, dedication, and excellence in safety is no surprise to me,” said Darren Hawkins, Chief Executive Officer of Yellow. “He’s one of our best, most top-notch employees – not only as a driver but also as a community service leader. I’m proud of Herschel and glad to have him on our team at Yellow.” As a Yellow “Million Miler” driver, Evans has driven more than three million accident-free miles and maintained a flawless driving record. He has been honored with the 2018 Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance International Driver Excellence Award, the 2020 TravelCenters of America Citizen Driver Award, and the 2021 CEO’s Award at Yellow. An ambassador of safety and driver training, Evans is a Road Team Captain for the American Trucking Association and is a member of the Yellow Safety Committee and Accident Review Board as well as the Mid-Atlantic Professional Truck Drivers Association. He volunteers for Convoy of Care and founded the Safety Drive for a Cure annual event, which benefits the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. “It takes more than an outstanding on-the-job performance to be selected for the Lytx Coach of the Year award,” said Del Lisk, Vice President of Safety Services. “We look for a candidate who is an outstanding performer at work but also someone who goes above and beyond to make a positive contribution to their community and society as a whole. With over 30 pages of safety commendations, letters of community support, and a history of volunteer work, Herschel’s selection was a no-brainer. Due to his outstanding credentials, he was not only selected as the Coach of the Year in the For-Hire trucking category but also was selected as the top coach overall for all six industry categories.” “I’m very honored Lytx recognized me as its 2021 Coach of the Year, and thank you to Yellow for numerous opportunities to serve in leadership roles and in helping develop other fellow drivers as safety champions,” said Evans. “It means a lot to me, being able to help others become better, safer drivers and to have such a great tool in the Lytx Driver Safety Program.” Yellow uses the Lytx Driver Safety Program and DriveCam® Event Recorders in its trucks to review any accidents and issues to provide feedback and visual teaching for drivers, Yellow Driving Academy students, and terminal managers. The technology offers Yellow leadership real-time insight into what drivers experience in challenging day-to-day traffic conditions, allowing an opportunity to engage with our drivers to identify and control exposure to risk.
Women In Trucking Association announces continued Gold Level Partnership with Waste Management
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced that Waste Management, Inc. (WM) has continued its Gold Level partnership, helping the nonprofit association encourage more women to see the vast opportunities in transportation, whether as a professional driver, mechanic, recruiter, business leader, and more. In addition to providing financial support, the company actively participates in the association. Kelly Rooney, area general manager of WM’s Heartland Area serves on the WIT board of directors. “One of our company’s aspirational goals is to lead the industry in female representation at all levels, with a special emphasis on frontline and women in leadership by 2025. By joining with Women in Trucking, it illustrates how WM is a committed people-first organization by supporting the advancement of women in the transportation industry,” said Rooney. “Our goal is to be a valuable resource and powerful community for our members to tap into,” said Ellen Voie, WIT president and CEO. “Influential industry leaders like Waste Management allow us to continue to make a lasting impact on gender diversity issues in the industry and advance our mission. We are grateful for their continued support.” Since 2007, WIT has been committed to showcasing success stories of women in the industry, minimizing the obstacles they face, and ultimately increasing the number of females working in transportation and logistics. Recent accomplishments include launching a Diversity & Inclusion Index, a program aimed at collecting and recognizing best practices in diversity and inclusion efforts; unveiling its Driver Ambassador expo trailer that introduces the career of truck driving; and providing driver members with free health support programs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
David Hobbs named Executive Vice President of H&E
As part of the stated strategy to accelerate growth in the pure-play rental business, H&E has announced the return of industry veteran David Hobbs to the company as executive vice president. In his role, David has managerial responsibilities for the company’s existing operations at all branch locations. Hobbs returns to H&E after 15 years of holding top management and executive roles with the nation’s largest rental equipment company. His previous employment with H&E included the titles of branch manager and director of salesforce and training. Over his 25-year industry career, Hobbs learned the business from every angle and advanced through the ranks, also holding the positions of inside and outside sales representative, branch manager, district sales manager, district manager, vice president, regional vice president, and senior regional vice president. He is also a proud Army veteran who served in combat. Hobbs reports directly to President and Chief Operating Officer John Engquist. “We are very fortunate to welcome David back. David was part of a team that was instrumental in helping launch H&E into the rental business in the late ’90s,” says Chief Executive Officer Brad Barber. “Having David work alongside our team of seasoned executives again today fully aligns with our current growth plans. His breadth of experience will certainly propel us forward as we execute our strategic plan and grow our rental business through warm starts and expansion.”
Thomson Industries celebrates 75 years of innovation and motion control
Thomson Industries, Inc., a manufacturer of linear motion control solutions, celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. Activities and celebrations throughout the year will commemorate the company’s extraordinary 75-year journey and acknowledge the contributions of Thomson employees. What began as John B. Thomson Sr.’s wartime government project to reduce friction in the motion of airplane propellers ultimately led to 75 years of linear motion innovation and countless solutions provided across a wide range of industries. Given the expanding use of automation in the world economy and the company’s sustained focus on innovation, Thomson has grown exponentially in both size and technical capability over the years. It is now one of the most trusted motion control brands in the world. “Most, if not all, of the credit to the company’s success can be attributed to a long history of dedicated, persevering employees that work together toward a common goal of fulfilling the Thomson brand promise, which is helping design engineers find the optimal linear motion solution for their applications,” said Thomson President, Scott Benigni. “Thanks to their efforts, we’re in a good position to continue serving our global customers and distribution partners with the greatest breadth of the highest-quality motion components for many years to come. Our mission is to help our customers build better machines to improve their lives. I am extremely proud of the collaborative approach our team takes towards helping our customers innovate in their respective fields. From medical diagnostics and treatment and precision farming to aircraft safety and alternative energy, Thomson is partnering with our customers to find the right balance of cost, life, and performance in linear motion.” Since its incorporation 75 years ago, Thomson has made a series of acquisitions and mergers and has become a leader in linear motion globally. Throughout this journey, Thomson has evolved its culture by combining the best of what each company offered and has always maintained a drive for continuous improvement. In 2018, a merger with Altra Industrial Motion has positioned Thomson as a key business in the Automation & Specialty platform. As part of Altra, Thomson is now even more equipped to provide complete system solutions through its control, drive, motor, power transmission, and precision linear motion technologies.
KAMAN Distribution Group announces new Executive appointment
Kaman Distribution Group (“KDG”), a value-added distributor of bearings, power transmission, automation, and fluid power products, has announced the appointment of C. Todd Boone as the Vice President & General Manager of their Automation business. Most recently, Todd served as the Senior Director of Wesco Distribution’s Applied Technology Group. In addition, Todd held the position of Director, Assembly division at Wesco. As a member of the KDG Executive Team and leader of the Automation business unit, Todd will be critical in driving our growth in automation, both in distribution sales as well as system integration and assembled solutions. Todd holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology from the University of Dayton. “Todd is uniquely qualified to run our automation business, with his combination of experience in both automation distribution as well as system solutions and integration,” said Ben Mondics, president and CEO of KDG. “Todd’s 30 years in automation, in both sales and operations, will provide the experience and industry knowledge necessary to provide market-leading solutions to our customers. We look forward to his contributions as we continue to execute our strategic growth plan.”
JLG® Electric Scissor Lifts and SkyTrak® Telehandlers win EquipmentWatch 2021 Lowest Cost of Ownership Awards
Setting the industry standard for the best combined average annual utilization and residual value in the next five years JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, announces that EquipmentWatch has recognized JLG® electric scissor lifts and SkyTrak® telehandlers with its prestigious 2021 Lowest Cost of Ownership (LCO) awards. “Based on the average annual utilization and residual value, EquipmentWatch analysts were able to determine that JLG electric scissor lifts and SkyTrak telehandlers will have the lowest five-year total cost of ownership across all equipment brands and models they evaluated within the industry,” says Jennifer Stiansen, Director of Marketing for JLG. “Worldwide, the JLG brand is known for manufacturing powerful, versatile access equipment with innovative features and functions that maximize end-user uptime and minimize operating costs, contributing to a low total cost of ownership (TCO). It is truly an honor to be distinguished by EquipmentWatch in not one, but two key product categories.” Designed to increase productivity and enhance safety on the job, JLG electric scissor lifts offer many features and benefits that contribute to their LCO, including enhanced uptime, reduced charging time, reduced service intervals, a quieter work area, less dependency on hydraulic oils, and zero emissions. JLG electric scissor lift models include the DaVinci™ all-electric series, the ES electric-drive series, the R hydraulic-drive series, and the ERT electric rough-terrain series. Delivering comfort and productivity for a full day’s work, SkyTrak telehandlers feature improved boom function speeds, a single joystick for greater multifunction capability, an integrated armrest, and optional air conditioning for increased comfort. The SkyTrak telehandler lineup includes the 3013, 6036, 6042, 8042, 10042, 10054, and 12054 models. According to EquipmentWatch, this is the 4th year the company has awarded LCO awards, the industry’s only award that leverages third-party, unbiased data to identify equipment projected to best offer the lowest cost of ownership in the next five years. LCO recognition was given to manufacturers and brands in 20 different categories, based on the most popular equipment models observed in the resale channel during the 12-month period between March 2020 and February 2021. For more details about the EquipmentWatch 2021 Lowest Cost of Ownership Awards, visit https://equipmentwatch.com/methodology-lowest-cost-ownership-awards/.
AutoStore reaches milestone with 600 Robotics Systems
DSV, the Danish transport and logistics company, is expanding its position in the 3PL market through the use of AutoStore technology. Implemented by Element Logic, the system uses AutoStore robotics and Element Logic’s proprietary software to provide a leading solution for e-commerce players. The solution is being deployed in nine countries and represents AutoStore’s 600th system implementation DSV’s global strategy is to serve its clients with the most cost and operationally-effective solutions on the market. Such solutions need to be environmentally sustainable and give clients access to robust and trustworthy technology. With a track record of delivering over 600 automated warehouses globally, AutoStore will provide a long-term solution in partnership with Element Logic, giving DSV’s clients a competitive advantage in the market. This multi-site roll-out follows the successful installation of AutoStore technology by Element Logic into one of DSV’s distribution centers in Norway, located in Vestby outside of Oslo. Technology Across National Borders “With a proven technological solution, combined decades of experience between ourselves and AutoStore, and the integration of our eManager software, DSV will benefit from a significant competitive advantage when serving both existing and new customers,” said Chief Commercial Officer at Element Logic, Håvard Hallås. Hallås believes DSV’s solution represents an exciting opportunity in a market that is characterized by growth. He stated, “Providing integrated solutions and a common technology across countries and continents brings competitive advantages. It is an exciting time for DSV.” DSV’s CEO for the Solutions division, Brian Ejsing, commented on the investment program. “This is a logical next step considering the growth of our e-commerce operations. This partnership enables us to scale our B2C fulfillment network much faster.” AutoStore CEO and President Karl Johan Lier added, “Our latest partnership with DSV is a positive milestone for AutoStore, representing a crucial part of our growth journey. They are an excellent partner for us to have on board as both companies hold the same values of efficiency, innovation, and environmental impact, making our positioning in the market a unified one.” Sharp Increase for AutoStore The company’s first robotic system was implemented back in 2005 by Element Logic, and the growth in the number of robots in recent years has attracted international attention. At the beginning of April, Softbank invested NOK 25 billion ($2.8 billion USD) in the company, valuing the company at NOK 65 billion ($7.7 billion USD). According to the CEO of AutoStore, Karl Johan Lier, growth in the 3PL sector will continue to increase. “The demand for automated solutions in the retail trade and an increased uptake of e-commerce by consumers means that the market for automated warehousing solutions is strong.” Lier believes that AutoStore and its sales partners are very well equipped to take a large share of the market. “In addition to the fact that AutoStore represents a unique and efficient technology, it is actually players such as DSV that are the main argument for AutoStore and Element Logic’s eManager software. Our technology is flexible and scalable. Companies using our solution do not need to predict demand but can scale up when the need arises.”