Rockwell American, a manufacturer and distributor of components for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty commercial trailers, announced the appointment of Brent Pope as vice president, Rockwell American Manufacturing.

Pope is responsible for the company’s four axle, fender, and spring manufacturing plants in Texas and Florida. He replaces Cecil Fugate, who will retire as Rockwell American’s vice president of manufacturing in May and manage projects for the company from its sales office in Angola, Ind.

As part of the transition, Rockwell American has promoted Wilson Gruetzner to general manager of its spring plant in Seagoville, Texas. The company also promoted David Kidd to the newly created position of director of purchasing for its manufacturing operations, reporting to Pope.

Previously, Gruetzner served as the company’s manager of engineering and quality assurance. Kidd was manager of the Seagoville spring facility.

“These well-earned leadership appointments will streamline operational decisions and support our ongoing efforts as an integrated supplier to trailer builders and the trailer aftermarket," Dietemann said. “I also want to thank Cecil for his many contributions to our company and for working with Brent to ensure a smooth transition.”

Rockwell American manufactures and distributes wheels, axles, fenders, brakes, leaf springs, and other components for commercial trailers. Based in Azle, Texas, it is a division of Polar Corporation, one of North America’s largest manufacturers of aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel tank trailers. For more information, visit rockwellamerican.com.