Hypertherm Associates, a U.S.-based manufacturer specializing in industrial cutting systems and software, has recently launched a strategic leadership transition. Aaron Brandt, the current Executive Vice President of Technology, is set to succeed Evan Smith as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) upon Smith’s planned retirement at the close of 2024.
Founded in 1968 and with its headquarter in the United States, Hypertherm Associates, is a manufacturer specializing in industrial cutting products and software. Known for its innovative solutions such as Hypertherm plasma and OMAX waterjet systems, the company’s products find applications across the globe in diverse industries.
Hypertherm cutting systems play a crucial role in the construction of ships, airplanes, and railcars, the fabrication of heavy equipment, the erection of steel buildings, the installation of wind turbines, and various other applications. Beyond cutting systems, the company is recognized for developing CNCs and software known for their performance and reliability, contributing to increased productivity and profitability for numerous businesses.
Established in 1968, Hypertherm Associates is a unique entity being a 100 percent Associate-owned company. With an employee base of approximately 2,000 Associates, the company operates globally, with a robust presence through operations and partner representation around the world. Hypertherm Associates continues to be a trusted name in the industry, delivering cutting-edge solutions that empower businesses across various sectors.
Aaron Brandt brings a wealth of experience to his new role as the CEO, having earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering from Penn State University. With 25-year tenure at Hypertherm Associates, he began as a Research and Design Engineer and progressed through various engineering and business leadership roles.
Mr Brandt has previously served as General Manager for the heavy industrial plasma business and held executive leadership positions overseeing software, waterjet, and laser consumables businesses. Brandt will become the third CEO at Hypertherm Associates, following in the footsteps of esteemed leaders Dick Couch, the co-founder and CEO from 1968-2014, and Evan Smith.
In 2019, he founded Hypertherm Ventures, a pivotal component of the company’s advanced manufacturing technology development strategy. Over the past decade, Mr Brandt has been an integral part of the Executive Management Team, holding the position of EVP, Technology, where he played a crucial role in shaping and executing the company’s core technology roadmap and leading digital and multi-technology growth strategies.
Rich Lettieri, Chair of the Board of Directors at Hypertherm Associates, expressed full confidence in Aaron Brandt, stating, “The entire Hypertherm Associates Board of Directors has the utmost confidence in Aaron to guide the company on its continued path as an industry-leading organization.”
He commended Mr Brandt for his commitment to innovation, customer success, and values-focused leadership, highlighting his embodiment of the company’s culture of customer-focused innovation and prioritization of the well-being and development of its associates.
To facilitate a seamless transition, Evan Smith will remain in his role as CEO throughout 2024, while Aaron Brandt assumes the position of President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). This carefully planned transition year will involve the gradual transfer of strategic leadership responsibilities and acknowledgment of Smith’s extensive and accomplished tenure.
Mr Smith, who joined Hypertherm Associates in 1992, became President in 2012, and assumed the role of CEO in 2015, has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth, global expansion, establishment of 100% associate ownership, and strategic development as a multi-technology industrial cutting solutions leader.
Reflecting on Smith’s contributions, Dick Couch, co-founder and Board Chair Emeritus, remarked, “Each leader brings new perspective and energy, and Evan’s influence has successfully advanced the Hypertherm Associates vision to produce long-term benefits for our customers, our Associate owners, and the communities in which we operate.”
Mr Couch expressed deep gratitude to Mr Smith for leading with great confidence and taking the company’s vision to heart. As Evan Smith shared with the global workforce of associate owners, “We have ambitious strategies underway that we will continue to execute with pace. Hypertherm Associates is strong and will continue to flourish.”
