Category: About People

Fred Smith, Founder of FedEx, Dies at 80

Frederick Wallace Smith, the founder, executive chairman and long-time chairman and CEO of FedEx Corporation, passed away from natural causes on June 21, 2025, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was 80 years old. His death marks the end of an era for the global transportation and logistics industry; an industry which he founded and revolutionized through his innovative vision and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Born on August 11, 1944, in Marks, Mississippi and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Mr. Smith was a born entrepreneur. In 1962, he entered Yale College to pursue a degree in economics. While at Yale, the young Smith worked as a charter pilot. It was at Yale where he conceived the idea for an integrated air-to-ground system that would ensure overnight delivery, a concept that would eventually become Federal Express.

After graduating from Yale in 1966, he served four years in the United States Marine Corps (USMC), which included two tours of duty in Vietnam where he served as a rifle platoon leader, a company commander, and aerial observer/tactical air controller in the OV-10A. He was decorated with the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts for his military service. He left the Marine Corps in 1970 as a Captain, and would often joke that he received his ‘business degree’ from the USMC.

Mr. Smith launched Federal Express in 1973 with a fleet of 14 Dassault Falcon jets and a vision to transform the shipping industry. Under his leadership as its President and CEO, FedEx grew from a small startup into a multinational corporation that redefined global commerce. Today, FedEx is the world’s largest express transportation company and is consistently recognized as one of the world’s most admired companies. The company employs more than 500,000 team members globally, connects more than 220 countries and territories, and moves nearly $2 trillion in goods annually and more than 17 million shipments per day.

Smith’s pioneering approach not only created an industry leader but also set new standards for customer focus with the renowned Purple Promise, a globally consistent People-Service-Profit culture, and a brand trusted by shippers and recipients around the world.

In 2022, after serving as one of the longest-tenured Presidents and CEOs of a Fortune 100 company, Mr. Smith stepped aside to become Founder and Executive Chairman of FedEx Corporation. As Executive Chairman, Mr. Smith focused on issues of global importance, including sustainability, innovation, and public policy. Until his death, Mr. Smith continued to help shape the vision and the strategy of the company he founded, as well as work on critical policy issues for the transportation industry.

In the words of FedEx President & CEO Raj Subramaniam, “Frederick W. Smith pioneered express delivery and connected the world, shaping global commerce as we know it. His legacy of innovation, leadership, and philanthropy will continue to inspire future generations. I will miss not only his visionary leadership, but his trusted friendship and counsel.”

Mr. Smith was a trustee for the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Director of the American Battle Monuments Foundation, and a member of the Business Council. He served on the Business Roundtable for more than 30 years. He also served as chairman of the U.S.-China Business Council and co-chair of the French American Business Council. Smith served on the boards of several large public companies — Malone and Hyde (AutoZone), First Tennessee, Holiday Inn, EW Scripps, and General Mills — and charitable organizations including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Mayo Foundation. He was chairman of the Board of Governors for the International Air Transport Association and chaired the executive committee of the U.S. Air Transport Association.

Beyond his business achievements, Mr. Smith was a dedicated philanthropist and supporter of numerous charitable causes. He served as co-chairman of both the U.S. World War II Memorial project and the campaign for the National Museum of the Marine Corps. He was committed to education, veterans’ affairs, and environmental sustainability, ensuring that FedEx played a positive role in communities around the world.

Mr. Smith’s unwavering commitment to the city of Memphis was evident in his lifelong dedication to uplifting its people and future. Through philanthropic support of education, healthcare, sports, the arts, and community development, he helped shape Memphis for the better — always believing in the power of giving back to the place he proudly called home.

He was a devoted father and grandfather, known for his generosity, humility, and unwavering dedication to his family. He was preceded in death by his daughter Windland Smith Rice. He is survived by his wife, Diane Smith, and children: Stacey Rokas (Bill), Laurie Hooper (Steven), Richard Smith (Allison), Kathleen Forbush (Matt), Molly Heussenstamm (Bron), Arthur Smith (Allison), Rachel O’Neal (David), Sam Atkinson (Bubba), and Cannon Smith (Collins), as well as 31 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Changes in the Management at N3 Engine Overhaul Services

N3 Engine Overhaul Services, a joint venture between Lufthansa Technik and Rolls-Royce in Arnstadt, has made changes to its management team. Holger Sindemann has taken over the position of director and general manager on behalf of Rolls-Royce. In this role, he is responsible for the operational areas of the company and, as the Accountable Manager, is the main point of contact for the German Federal Aviation Authority. 

He succeeds Carsten Behrens, who has left the company as planned after three years. Holger Sindemann has almost 20 years of experience as an executive manager in the aerospace industry. He also worked as a strategy consultant for around ten years. He studied mechanical engineering at RWTH Aachen University.

In accordance with the agreement between the two parent companies, the N3 management team always consists of two shareholder representatives. Responsibilities are clearly divided into an operational and a commercial area. Currently, Stefan Landes (commercial director) and Holger Sindemann form the N3 Management Board on an equal footing.

Career Opportunities at Erfurter Kreuz Also for Career Changers

By expanding its capacities, N3 is not only creating new premises, but also new prospects: The company is looking for qualified specialists and career changers who are enthusiastic about working in engine overhaul. N3’s own qualification program also enables applicants without an aviation background to join the company. Comprehensive information for those interested in a career change can be found on the company’s own website.

xDREAM Growth Program

After 15 years of successful collaboration, the parent companies Lufthansa Technik and Rolls-Royce. agreed to intensify their collaboration and commitment in Thuringia in 2022 and granted permission to expand the N3 site. This includes the expansion of the plant building and the construction of a logistics center on the company premises. N3 launched its comprehensive xDREAM growth program in 2022 to implement this. The aim of the growth program is to increase the capacity for the overhaul of Rolls-Royce Trent engines to at least 250 engines per year.

LAUNCH Welcomes Marco Nogueira as VP of Technical Development

LAUNCH Technical Workforce Solutions, has announced the addition of Marco Nogueira as the new vice president of technical development for the company. Marco will work closely with the LAUNCH Delivery and Fulfillment teams, along with leaders from the sales and quality departments to expand our reach and drive growth within all our market segments. As one of the first new appointments made by Mike Reporto following his recent promotion to group president, Nogueira will be focused on bringing in new candidates through the LAUNCH Academy, which incorporates partnerships with technical schools, our Working Heroes/DOD Skillbridge efforts, and our Global Access and Career Advancement Programs.

Mike Reporto, group president of LAUNCH, said, “I am passionate about finding innovative ways to drive the next generation of candidates to find success in the aviation industry. Marco is a true expert in the field and will be a substantial asset to LAUNCH as we further develop our pipeline of skilled aircraft technicians. I’m so excited to have him on our team and to further demonstrate our commitment to advancing and promoting aviation careers. As we approach the anniversary of AMT & Charles Taylor Day on May 24th , how appropriate that LAUNCH takes this proactive step.”

Nogueira has over 30 years of commercial aviation experience in the areas of aircraft maintenance, overhaul, inspection, and operations, including 25+ years of progressive leadership roles in safety sensitive functions.

Most recently, Nogueira worked with Breeze Airways as the vice president of technical operations with responsibility for maintenance, engineering, quality and materials warehousing. He was a founding team member and key contributor with the initial airline14 CFR 121 certification process including Embraer E190/195 and Airbus A220 fleet introduction, as well as introducing a fully digital and electronic paperless aircraft maintenance logbook and record keeping system.

Prior to that, Nogueira worked at JetBlue, where he held numerous leadership roles throughout his tenure, including 14 CFR 119.65 Management Personnel positions as the Director of Maintenance.

Nogueira holds an active Airframe and Powerplant license (Teterboro School of Aeronautics) and an Associate of Science Degree in Aeronautical Engineering Technologies from the Vaughn College of Aeronautics.

Gulfstream Customer Support Promotes Juan Hernandez to VP, Field Support

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced the promotion of Juan Hernandez to vice president of field support.

In this role, Hernandez is responsible for the strategic and tactical direction of Gulfstream’s worldwide field support activities, including the global call center, customer operational readiness, contractor logistics support services and the field service representative (FSR) network. He reports to Lor Izzard, who was recently named senior vice president of Gulfstream Customer Support.

“Throughout his tenure with Gulfstream, Juan has contributed to the advancement of our field support team to help ensure we are well positioned for best-in-class customer support,” said Izzard. “His strong customer relationships and commitment to the teams he leads are incredibly valuable, and I am thrilled to have him join the Customer Support leadership team.”

Hernandez, who has more than 30 years of aviation experience, joined Gulfstream in 1998. He has been part of the technical operations team since 2008 and held numerous roles of increasing responsibility within Gulfstream Customer Support. Before joining Gulfstream, Hernandez served in the U.S. Army as an avionics technician.

This announcement follows the recent opening of Gulfstream FAST’s newest location in White Plains, New York, which occurred under Hernandez’s leadership. 

Archer Aviation Hires Retired Brigadier General, Former UAE Attaché, Cristiano Tartaglione as Chief Operating Officer for UAE Operations

Archer Aviation announced the hire of retired Brigadier General Cristiano Tartaglione as chief operating officer for its operations in the United Arab Emirates.

Headquartered in Silicon Valley, California, Archer is a next-gen aerospace company designing and developing the key enabling technologies and aircraft necessary to power the future of aviation. Its all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Midnight, is designed to replace 60–90 minute commutes by car with estimated 10–20 minute electric air taxi flights that are safe, sustainable, low noise and cost-competitive with ground transportation. In the Emirates, the company is actively working with local partners and regulators to build the region’s first commercial air taxi network.

Tartaglione will be responsible for leading Archer’s UAE-based operations, building and mentoring a local team, developing operational infrastructure and ensuring compliance with UAE aviation regulations. He will work closely with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and key partners to ensure the safe and timely launch of commercial electric air taxi services in the country and region.

Tartaglione brings over 30 years of leadership experience from the Italian Air Force, where he commanded multinational air operations, led advanced jet maintenance programs and accrued more than 3,500 flight hours as a fighter pilot. His diplomatic experience as Italy’s Defense Attaché to the UAE also established him as a trusted advisor within regional defense and aviation sectors. Following his military career, he advised global aerospace and defense companies on transformation and market entry strategies in the Middle East and Europe.

“I am honored to join Archer Aviation at such a critical stage of growth as we prepare for commercial launch,” said Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Cristiano Tartaglione.“My focus will be on driving operational readiness, regulatory alignment and long-term value as we launch safe and scalable air mobility services in the region.”

This hire highlights Archer’s commitment to delivering innovative, and sustainable urban air mobility solutions across the Emirates. Most recently, the company secured design approval from the GCAA for the transformation of the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal helipad into the country’s first hybrid heliport for both helicopters and eVTOL aircraft.

Dr. Talib Alhinai, General Manager of Archer Aviation UAE, commented:“Cristiano joining the team is a big step forward for Archer Aviation’s mission in the UAE. His leadership and expertise will be critical as we aim to bring the region’s first commercial electric air taxi services to life, supporting the nation’s vision for futuristic and sustainable transportation.”

Amprius Names Tom Stepien as President to Lead Commercial Growth and Expansion

Amprius Technologies, maker of next-generation lithium-ion batteries with its Silicon Anode Platform, announced the appointment of Tom Stepien as president, effective May 1, 2025. In this role, Stepien will oversee the Company’s day-to-day operations, commercial growth, and market expansion to meet the accelerating demand for Amprius’ high-performance silicon battery technology. Stepien has also been appointed as a member to the Company’s Board of Directors, effective May 1, 2025.

Stepien brings over 35 years of leadership experience across customer-focused, innovation-driven technology companies. Most recently, Stepien served as CEO of South 8 Technologies, where he led the commercialization of a novel liquefied gas electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries. He also co-founded and led Primus Power, a long-duration stationary storage company, and was an Operating Partner at KCK Group, a private equity firm focused on industrial technologies. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at Applied Materials, the global semiconductor equipment leader.

“Tom has a rare combination of technical expertise and market leadership at innovative technology companies,” said Dr. Kang Sun, CEO of Amprius Technologies. “As we expand our global footprint, Tom’s decades of experience growing energy and manufacturing businesses will be instrumental in guiding Amprius through the next phase of commercial execution. We look forward to welcoming Tom as we continue our mission to power the future of electrification with next-generation battery technology.”

Stepien joins Amprius at a pivotal moment as the Company ramps production to meet increasing demand for its high-performance silicon batteries, offering industry-leading energy density to power electric aviation, defense, and electric mobility platforms. He will be a key driver in expanding strategic partnerships, strengthening customer relationships, and unlocking new growth opportunities in high-impact markets.

“Amprius is one of the few companies that combines breakthrough battery innovation with the ability to scale,” said Stepien. “With a powerful technology platform, an exceptional team, and growing market traction, the Company is well-positioned to lead the next wave of electrification. I’m excited to help build on that foundation and expand Amprius’ impact across high-growth sectors where performance and energy density matter most.” Stepien holds a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering from MIT and is a co-inventor on 11 U.S. and international battery patents. He also serves on the board of Euro Manganese, a supplier of battery materials to the electric vehicle industry.

Arnold Magnetic Technologies Announces New CEO, Effective March 31, 2025

Arnold Magnetic Technologies Corporation (Arnold), a manufacturer of high-performance magnets, electric motors and precision thin metals, announces a significant leadership transition. Matthew Blake has assumed the role of chief executive officer effective March 31, 2025. Blake succeeds Dan Miller, who held the position for the past nine years.

During his tenure, Dan Miller made substantial contributions to Arnold’s growth and success, the company says. Under Miller’s leadership, the company strengthened its position as a leading solutions provider, successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, and oversaw a recent facility relocation. Miller’s strategic vision was instrumental in spearheading the launch of the world’s strongest Samarium Cobalt magnet grade, RECOMA 35E, and instilling a culture that fosters teamwork, communication, and operational excellence.

Matthew Blake brings his extensive global operations experience across various industrial end-markets to his new role as CEO. His career includes leadership positions at DwyerOmega, Alpha Packaging, Cleaver-Brooks, and ESAB Welding & Cutting Products. Blake holds a Master of Science in Engineering and Global Operations Management from Clarkson University, as well as an MBA from Webster University.

As CEO, Blake will leverage his substantial industrial experience and strategic acumen to drive Arnold into its next stage of growth and innovation. His strong track record in driving expansion, operational excellence, and strategic execution positions him well to build upon the strong foundations laid by his predecessor.

“I’m thrilled for the privilege to lead the exceptional team at Arnold Magnetic Technologies as CEO,” Blake stated. “The opportunity to build on our rapid growth while partnering with customers to scale technology solutions that will reshape industries, is one I simply could not refuse. I was further impressed by the Company’s remarkable 130-year history of innovating, engineering, and manufacturing world-class products with the highest standards for quality, reliability, and performance.”
To ensure a smooth transition, Dan Miller will continue to serve in an advisory role until April 30, 2025.

Gulfstream Appoints Brian Burrows Vice President of Service Center Operations

Gulfstream Aerospace appointed Brian Burrows as vice president of service center operations, effective immediately. Burrows will succeed Joe Rivera, who is retiring in June after more than two decades with Gulfstream Customer Support.  

In his new role, Burrows is responsible for ensuring customers and operators continue to experience consistent service excellence across the extensive Gulfstream Customer Support service center network.

Burrows has worked in aviation for over 35 years, having spent nearly 30 of those years with Gulfstream. During this time, he has served in roles of increasing responsibility within the Gulfstream Customer Support organization, including service center management, director of technical operations and most recently, director of customer support.  

“Brian is well respected amongst Gulfstream customers and operators, and these relationships are complemented by his strong tenure and depth of experience,” said Lor Izzard, senior vice president, Gulfstream Customer Support. “We look forward to Brian’s leadership as we continue to build upon the industry-leading support established across our service center network, delivering on our commitment to exceeding customer expectations.”  

Ahead of his retirement, Rivera will support Burrows’ transition into his new role. Since joining Gulfstream Customer Support more than 20 years ago, Rivera has held various leadership roles, most recently overseeing Gulfstream’s global service center network. In total, Rivera has dedicated 45 years to the aviation industry.

“Joe has been instrumental in advancing Gulfstream’s global service center network, which has significantly expanded under his leadership,” added Izzard. “His wealth of knowledge and dedication to our customers has helped Gulfstream deliver an unparalleled customer experience around the world. Joe will be greatly missed, and we wish him all the best on his well-deserved retirement.”  

AerSale Announces Appointment of Two New Board Members and Upcoming Board Transitions

AerSale Corporation announced the appointment of Carol DiBattiste and Thomas Mitchell to its board of directors. DiBattiste will fill the vacancy created by the departure of Jonathan Seiffer on March 14, 2025, while Mitchell joins as an additional board member.

Carol DiBattiste has a distinguished record of government service, having served as Honorable Under Secretary of the U.S. Air Force (DOD), Deputy Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA, DHS), Deputy U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Director of the Executive Office for United States Attorneys (DOJ), and executive in charge and vice chairman of the board of veterans appeals for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). She also served on active duty in the U.S. Air Force. In addition to her public sector leadership, she has extensive experience in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity. She has held executive positions at public companies, including serving as chief legal & compliance officer at QOMPLX, and Comscore, as well as senior executive roles at Education Management Corporation, GeekNet, Reed Elsevier and LexisNexis. DiBattiste also brings prior public board experience, serving as chair of AEYE, and as a board member of Climb Global Solutions. Her expertise in risk management, compliance,and transformation will provide valuable insights to AerSale’s Board.

Thomas Mitchell is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in global supply chain management, procurement, and manufacturing operations. He has held leadership roles across the aviation, health procurement officer at GE Healthcare and Akumin, he led large-scale sourcing and logistics operations, optimizing cost and cash flow. As president of iAero Thrust, he modernized engine MRO operations, spearheading facility upgrades and leading a successful business sale. His expertise includes supplier development in China, business integration in Germany, and the establishment of a major manufacturing site in India for GE. His strategic insights and hands-on leadership will bring valuable perspectives to AerSale’s Board.

Additionally, AerSale announces that Peter Nolan, the current lead independent director, and General C. Robert Kehler have notified the Board that they will not be standing for re-election at the company’s annual stockholders meeting on June 5, 2025. Both Nolan and General Kehler will continue to serve in their roles until that date. Following the completion of all board member transitions, the AerSale Board will remain comprised of seven members.

“We are pleased to welcome Carol and Thomas to our Board and look forward to their contributions as we continue executing on our strategic initiatives,” said Nicolas Finazzo, CEO and chairman of the board of AerSale. “Their experience and leadership will be invaluable in guiding our growth. At the same time, we extend our sincere gratitude to Peter Nolan and General Kehler for their years of service and dedication to AerSale. Their expertise and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the company’s direction, and we appreciate their invaluable contributions to our success.”

FUCHS Announces New President of North American Operations

FUCHS Lubricants Co., the world’s largest independent lubricant supplier, announced the appointment of Megan O’Meara as the new president of FUCHS North America, effective February 10, 2025. In her role, O’Meara will oversee key functions including sales, marketing, technical, product management, IT, and digital transformation for the North American operations.

O’Meara brings over two decades of professional experience to FUCHS, with a strong background in strategy, business development, and organizational transformation. Her career includes 11 years at BASF, where she progressed through various commercial and strategy roles, ultimately serving as strategy manager for North America and head of management consulting.

Most recently, O’Meara held the position of vice president, fiber and filament business at AdvanSix, where she successfully led business transformation efforts and enhanced customer development and engagement. Prior to this, she served as vice president of corporate strategy and development at AdvanSix, driving the company’s growth strategy through both organic initiatives and mergers and acquisitions. O’Meara’s academic credentials include a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Alabama and an MBA from Pace University in New York City.

“I am excited to join this talented organization and contribute to our continued success here in North America,” stated O’Meara. “FUCHS is an amazing company with a broad portfolio of innovative application solutions, both products and services, paired with a global footprint that is unmatched in the industry. In this role I am looking forward to leveraging our deep industry expertise and passion for our customers to drive success, while ensuring we meet our goals through proven products and technical advancements.”

Throughout her career, O’Meara has demonstrated a strong ability to accelerate growth by implementing effective strategies and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Her appointment aligns with FUCHS’s commitment to driving growth and innovation in the lubricant industry.

“I’m excited to have Megan onboard, as her extensive experience and strong leadership will be key to our growth in North America. Her strategic decision-making and ability to foster collaboration will drive success and help us exceed our goals in the coming years,” remarked Keith Brewer, CEO of FUCHS Lubricants Co.