As site leader, Pepper has responsibility for the plant's health and safety, quality, accounting, information systems, human resources, engineering, and internal and external communications, including community relations.

Previously, Pepper was the Elmore plant engineer.

He reports to Donald Klimkowicz, vice president, operations.

In making the announcement, Klimkowicz said, "The success of the Elmore facility is integral to the success of our entire company, and we believe that Art will make a tremendous contribution in this position. His background and experience, as well as his outstanding track record here in Elmore, make him uniquely qualified for this job.''

Pepper has worked in manufacturing for 25 years. He has held manufacturing positions at CYTEC Industries in West Virginia, Connecticut and Michigan and with U.S. Steel in Pittsburgh. Pepper has served as the plant engineer at Elmore since August 2000.

He has a bachelor's degree in human resource management from Spring Arbor College in Spring Arbor, Mich.

"We're excited to introduce Art to the local community, and we look forward to him getting out and meeting our neighbors throughout the area,'' Klimkowicz said.

"Our company is committed to enhancing its communications with the community, and Art will take a leadership role in that effort.''