Kaman Distribution Appoints VP Of Automation Segment

Jeff Ames takes over leadership of Kaman Distribution's Automation segment, bringing more than 25 years of experience in engineered products and systems business with him.

Id 32345 Kaman
Jeff AmesJeff Ames

BLOOMFIELD, CT — Kaman Distribution Group, the distribution segment of Kaman Corporation, on Monday announced the appointment of Jeff Ames as Vice President, General Manager of its Automation platform effective July 10. Kaman Distribution Group operates through three product platforms as Kaman Industrial Technologies (KIT): Bearings & Power Transmission, Fluid Power, and Automation. Jeff will report to Steve Smidler, KIT's President.

KIT is No. 20 on Industrial Distribution's Big 50 List.

Ames brings over 25 years of experience in engineered products and systems businesses, with roles spanning commercial, technical and operational responsibilities. Prior to joining Kaman, Jeff served as General Manager at Eaton Corporation where he led commercial, technical and operations activity in Eaton’s Notification business. He previously served as Business Unit Manager for Eaton’s Wright Line business. Jeff’s career at Eaton spanned 17 years and included earlier assignments of increasing responsibility in product line management, sales, and acquisition integration. Prior to Eaton, Jeff held positions at Schneider Electric’s industrial controls business in various commercial and technical roles and at International Business Machines.

“Jeff’s commercial and operational experience and knowledge of the automation and control market will prove valuable assets to Kaman as we further build our product platforms and portfolio,” Smidler said. “With his leadership, we are well-positioned for growth.”

Ames earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Syracuse University and an MBA from Marist College. He resides near Worcester, MA and will be based out of the Kaman Automation facility in Franklin, MA.

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