RIPKEY TAKES THE REINS AT FLORIDA LIFT SYSTEMS

Tampa, USA - Florida Lift Systems, Inc has hired Jim Ripkey, an industry expert associated with the Material Handling Equipment Distributors' Association (MHEDA), as its new president and chief operating officer.

Mr Ripkey has been a leader in the US materials handling industry for 12 years. Recent accolades include being selected as one of the MHEDA's "40 under 40" industry leaders, which recognises the industry's top 40 professionals under the age of 40, and being chosen to co-present MHEDA national training initiatives.

He was most recently vice-president and general manager of Hy-Tek Material Handling, Inc, and is a former materials handling executive with Yale Materials Handling.

The change takes place as Florida Lift Systems celebrates its 50th anniversary. Founded in 1952, the company is central Florida's largest forklift dealer.


DENNIS SLATER NEW AEM PRESIDENT

CHICAGO, USA - The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) has elected Dennis Slater as its new president, effective January 1, 2003.

Mr Slater this year was co-president of the association, overseeing the merger of the Construction Industry Manufacturers' Association (CIMA) and the Equipment Manufacturers' Institute to form the AEM. His co-president, Emmett Barker, is retiring at the end of this year.

Mr Slater was formerly president and secretary of CIMA, after joining that association in 1982. Apart from his new AEM commitments, Mr Slater will continue his role as managing director of the CONEXPO-CON/AGG international exhibition.