PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — One of Maine's largest employers is going through a leadership transition.
General Dynamics said Monday that Dirk Lesko has been elected a vice president of the corporation and appointed president of Bath Iron Works. The shipyard employs some 6,000 workers in Maine.
The parent company says the appointment is effective as of Jan. 1 following the retirement of Frederick Harris.
General Dynamics executive vice president John P. Casey praised Harris for "significant contributions to the U.S. Navy's shipbuilding programs." The iron works has built naval and commercial ships since the 19th century.
The shipyard's Machinists Union Local S6 president Rich Nolan says the union has a "fairly decent working relationship" with Lesko. He says Harris was unpopular with many members and the end of his tenure will likely boost morale.