BRIGHTON, Mich. – Transtar Autobody Technologies has announced organizational changes in several departments.
“These additions and promotions within our R&D, EHS, Marketing and IT departments will help increase our efficiency and output of top quality products to the marketplace,” said Charlie Fuqua, president of Transtar Autobody Technologies.
Transtar expanded its R&D department with the addition of Ehi Izirein as formulation chemist. Izirein has extensive experience in aftermarket coatings gained while formulating a variety of product lines for BASF. Izirein holds a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University in polymers and coatings.
Also joining the R&D department is Matt Pinter as a raw material chemist. His background includes a Research and Development internship at Blackmore Co., and he is also a member of the Federation of Society of Coatings Technology. Pinter will receive his bachelor of science degree from Eastern Michigan University this month, with a concentration in polymers & coating technology and chemistry.
Transtar also added Ken Lauwers to the team to manage environmental, health and safety responsibilities. Before joining Transtar, Lauwers worked as lead research chemist and safety manager at GST Auto Leather Innovation Center. He earned a B.S. in chemistry from Lawrence Technological University.
Julie Montes was promoted to director of marketing, where she will continue to oversee the marketing department and maintain an active role in implementing strategic business initiatives. Montes joined Transtar in October 2005 as marketing manager. She holds a BA in English and communications from the University of Michigan and an MBA with a marketing concentration from Eastern Michigan University.
Tom Gambaccini was recently promoted to the position of director of information systems. Gambaccini has been with Transtar for more than 20 years, working in an IT capacity. Prior to joining the Transtar Team, he held various IT and financial roles within the BFGoodrich/Tremco organizations.
