Compiled by SEMA Editors
 CURT has implemented two new laser-cutting machines. |
CURT Invests in New American Manufacturing
CURT has made significant investments in its Eau Claire, Wisconsin, manufacturing facility over the past year. The company has implemented several advanced assets—including new welding robotic cells, tooling, two vertical storage lift modules, a new tube bender and two new laser-cutting machines—that have improved manufacturing, processes, capacity, speed and efficiency. At the Eau Claire facility, a new welder training program and three new welder training booths have been set up for CURT associates. These training resources allow new welders to be trained on CURT processes, and it gives CURT associates the opportunity to learn a new trade, making an increased salary and adding value to the company. A new fume collection and air conditioning system has also been installed for the manual weld stations.
 Sean Sawyer |  Dan McKinstry |
COMP Performance Group Hires Sean Sawyer, Dan McKinstry
COMP Performance Group has announced that Sean Sawyer has joined the organization in the new role of business development manager and Dan McKinstry has been named the new director of supply-chain management. Sawyer will put his 25+ years of industry experience to work by exploring new markets, identifying potential new customers, determining better ways to serve existing customers and ensuring the company’s relevance in the marketplace. Starting his automotive career on the retail side of the business with Ford Senior Master Tech, ASE Master and Master Service Advisor certifications, Sawyer made the switch to the performance side and has spent the last 15 years customizing Pro Touring American musclecars, including 12 years as the owner of his own shop.
McKinstry brings with him 25 years of supply-chain experience, both with midsize and large companies. His skills include creating and implementing new supply-chain processes, inventory optimization, executing statistical forecasting technology and designing centralized demand planning processes. He has also successfully fulfilled a number of management roles. As the director of supply chain, McKinstry will oversee the team responsible for purchasing, master scheduling/planning/forecasting, inventory control and project management.
 Jean Franks |
Pilot Automotive Hires Jean Franks as New Chief Financial Officer
Effective immediately, Pilot Automotive has announced the addition of Jean Franks as the new chief financial officer. She brings more than 30 years of experience in the financial industry and more than two decades of experience in the automotive aftermarket industry. She joins Pilot after departing the executive team of K&N Filters for nearly 20 years. Franks joins the Pilot Automotive team in a time of expansion that includes the Rolling Big Power, Voodoo Ride, ROVI, DC Sports and Lunna brands.
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