Caterpillar Inc. announced Monday a realignment of manufacturing divisions, which includes several officer changes.
The Wheel Loaders and Excavators, Track-Type Tractors and Mining and Construction Equipment Divisions will be restructured and three new divisions will be created: U.S. Operations, Heavy Construction and Mining, and Infrastructure Development.
Jerry Palmer, vice president, Wheel Loaders and Excavators, will retire at the end of the year. Bob Williams, vice president, Track-Type Tractors, will oversee the U.S. Operations Division. Rod Bussell, vice president, Mining and Construction Equipment, will lead the Heavy Construction and Mining Division, and be responsible for product management and development for medium and large track-type tractors, mining trucks, quarry and aggregate trucks, large wheel loaders and wheel tractor scrapers.
The Infrastructure Development Division will be led by new vice president Gary Stampanato, who is currently the general manager of the Large Engine Center in Lafayette, Indiana. This division will involve the product management and development for medium and large hydraulic excavators, medium wheel loaders, motor graders, articulated trucks and component systems for lower powertrains.
“Our goal is to simplify and align common manufacturing and product development processes, replicate best practices and further leverage technology across product platforms,” said Chairman and CEO Jim Owens.
The changes will be effective December 1, 2006.