American Welding Society Names Carey Chen as New CEO
The American Welding Society (AWS), founded in 1919 as a nonprofit organization to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes, including brazing, soldering and thermal spraying, announced today that its Board of Directors has appointed Carey Chen as Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective Monday, January 20, 2025. Mr. Chen succeeds Robert Roth, who has served as Interim Executive Director and CEO.
Mr. Chen brings extensive leadership experience to AWS, having previously held CEO roles at Fathom Digital Manufacturing Solutions (NYSE:FATH), Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions, and Incodema Holdings LLC, and as Executive Chairman and President of Cincinnati Incorporated. Earlier in his career, he held key executive positions, including Vice President & Chief Financial Officer of Hypertherm, Inc., Vice President Finance of Wiremold | Legrand (Paris:LR.PA), and Vice President & CFO of Bayliner Marine Corporation, a subsidiary of the Brunswick Corporation (NYSE:BC).
A longstanding supporter of AWS, Mr. Chen has been an active volunteer with AWS and the AWS Foundation since 2007. He served as Treasurer from 2015 to 2022, during which he chaired the Finance & Business Development and Investment Committees and was a member of both the AWS Board of Directors and the AWS Foundation Board of Trustees. Most recently, he chaired the Audit Committee. His contributions to AWS have earned him prestigious recognitions, including being named an AWS Counselor in 2022 and receiving the National Meritorious Award in 2024.
Commenting on his new role, Mr. Chen said, “After nearly two decades of volunteer leadership at AWS, I am honored to take on this new responsibility as CEO. I look forward to working closely with our talented staff, dedicated board of directors, volunteers, and members to advance AWS’s mission and vision, driving innovation and growth for the welding community.”
In addition to his role at AWS, Mr. Chen currently serves as Chairman of the Board for Roberts Hawaii, Inc., an independent Board Director for CHART Rehabilitation, and an Independent Board Advisor for KarYard, Inc. Mr. Chen received a BS in Applied Mathematics from University of California, Los Angeles. He earned an MBA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and currently serves on the Gies College of Business Dean’s Business Council. He also holds several US Patents.
Maine Oxy Finalizes the Purchase of Strate Welding Supply Co.
Maine Oxy proudly announces the successful completion of the asset purchase of Strate Welding Supply Co., a well-established business with 13 locations in Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and New York. This strategic acquisition strengthens Maine Oxy’s presence in these regions and enhances its ability to serve customers across the eastern United States.
Strate Welding Supply Co. has been a trusted provider in the industrial gas and welding supply industry for decades. As part of this transition, all current employees of Strate Welding Supply Co. will join the Maine Oxy team, ensuring continuity of service and a seamless experience for customers.
“We are thrilled to welcome the talented team from Strate Welding Supply Co. into the Maine Oxy family,” said Kelly Gentry, Chief Operating Officer of Maine Oxy. “Together, we look forward to continuing to deliver exceptional products and services to our customers while expanding our footprint in Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and New York.”
This acquisition represents a significant milestone for Maine Oxy as it continues to grow and evolve to meet the needs of its customers. Maine Oxy remains committed to delivering exceptional value and strengthening relationships with its partners in every region it serves.
Carbonic Systems Names Francina Marvin as HR & Finance Manager
Francina Marvin has been promoted to HR & Finance Manager at Carbonic Systems. In her first year with Carbonic Systems Incorporated, “Frankie” has continued to take on additional responsibilities and has taken the lead on streamlining many of the company’s internal processes. She was also appointed corporate secretary and treasurer and earned her notary license. In her new role, Frankie will continue to lead the day-to-day HR and Finance operations of the company as well as provide strategic financial input for the future of Carbonic Systems Incorporated.
Frankie holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Keuka College in Organizational Management and is a licensed Notary Public in the state of New York.
Arc3 Gases Moves Virginia Beach Branch Location
Arc3 Gase announced on its LinkedIn page that its Virginia Beach branch is moving to a brand-new location effective February 3rd. The new address is:
549 Progress Lane, Suite 104
VA Beach, VA 23454
CK Supply Welcomes Mitch Luedloff as its New Marketing & Brand Coordinator
CK Supply announced on LinkedIn that it had welcomed Mitch Luedloff to its team as its new Marketing & Brand Coordinator.
“Mitch brings a passion for storytelling, creativity, and strategic thinking that will help elevate our brand and engage with our employee-owners, customers, vendors, & community in exciting new ways.
As we continue to grow and expand, we know he will play a vital role in enhancing our presence and connecting with our customers.”
