Trail King Industries named Bruce Yakley as its new president, marking completion of the company's acquisition by CC Industries. Yakley will succeed current Trail King President Carol Lowe, who is returning to Carlisle Companies on April 1, 2011.
Yakley brings 37 years of extensive experience in lean manufacturing, supply chain management, engineering, and product development to Trail King.
"Bruce Yakley comes to Trail King with the experience needed to navigate today's demanding marketplace," said CC Industries President and CEO, Bill Crown. "His strong track record in operational efficiency and organic growth, combined with an emphasis on quality and customer centricity will be the key assets to driving the continued success of Trail King."
Crown also said, "We are grateful for the leadership of Carol Lowe, especially through one of the industry's most challenging economic cycles. We wish her much success in her future endeavors."
Yakley has significant experience in the trailer industry and most recently served as president and chief operating officer of Brenner Tank, headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wis. While leading Brenner, Yakley significantly grew production capacity and profitability through continuous improvement initiatives. Prior to joining Brenner, Yakley held the position of vice president and general manager of the Refuse Vehicle Division of Federal Signal Inc. Yakley also held senior management positions with Leach Company and JI Case Company.
Yakley holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan and has extensive formal training in graduate level management, ISO 9000 quality systems, and continuous improvement.
Yakley was on hand to greet customers in the company's trade show booths at CONEXPO-the CON/AGG trade show in Las Vegas, Nev., and will be at the Mid America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kent., March 31 through April 1.
About Trail King Industries
Trail King Industries Inc. is a leading manufacturer of open deck and materials hauling trailers for the construction, commercial hauling, agriculture, and specialized transport industries. With manufacturing facilities in Mitchell, S.D. and West Fargo, N.D., Trail King manufactures over 40 different types of trailers, with load capacities ranging from 6,000 lbs. to 1,000,000 lbs. Trail King is supported by a network of more than 300 dealers across the U.S. and Canada, in addition to marketing and selling its products to customers in South America, Europe, Asia, and other places around the globe.
About CC Industries
Headquartered in Chicago, CC Industries Inc. operates under the umbrella of Henry Crown & Company and is the holding and management company for the Crown family's privately held operating companies, including Crown Community Development; Great Dane Trailers; Trail King Industries; Provisur Technologies; and Gillig Corporation.
